Frequently asked questions about VIN checks
Everything you need to know before checking a VIN code and buying a car imported from the USA.
What is a VIN code?
A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle at the factory. It encodes the manufacturer, model, year, and place of production, and it is the key to a car's full history — accidents, auctions, odometer records, and more.
How do I check a car imported from the USA?
Enter the VIN on VinScan. You will instantly see the factory specifications and any records from the Copart and IAAI salvage auctions — photos, damage type, odometer, and sale status. For the complete accident and service history you can unlock the official Carfax report.
What can I check for free?
Decoding the VIN, full vehicle specifications, and US auction history from Copart and IAAI — including photos — are free. You only pay when you want the full Carfax report.
What is a Carfax report and how much does it cost?
Carfax is the most complete vehicle-history database in North America: registered accidents, airbag deployments, odometer readings, title problems (salvage, flood, lemon), and service records. On VinScan one Carfax report costs one credit — see current credit prices on the billing page.
Where does the auction data come from?
Auction records come directly from Copart and IAAI — the two largest salvage auctions in the USA, where most damaged cars exported to Georgia and the region are sold. If the car went through one of these auctions, you will see its photos and sale details.
Do I need an account?
No — VIN decoding and auction checks work without registration. Create a free account to keep your lookup history and credits synced across devices.
Where do I find the VIN on the car?
The most common spot is the base of the windshield on the driver's side, visible from outside. It is also on the driver's door jamb sticker, the registration certificate (tech passport), and the insurance policy. On a phone you can scan the windshield VIN with the VinScan camera scanner.