In this guide we’ll advise you on whether it’s safe to give your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to a potential buyer for your car. We’ll go into the risks and benefits of doing so so that you can make an informed decision. Read on to ensure a smooth and safe car-selling experience.
Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique identifier assigned during production that holds important information about your car’s history, make, model year, location of manufacture, and additional information.
In NSW it’s not a legal requirement in to share your VIN to a potential buyer, but doing so is beneficial as it makes it a lot easier to sell your car as the buyer can then easily check the legitimacy of the car.
The risks are generally low, as the VIN is often visible on the dashboard and publicly accessible when your car is parked. However, there are rare cases of VIN cloning happening, where your VIN will be copied onto a stolen car to make it appear legitimate. Those these days this practise is much rarer so it’s generally safe to share your VIN.
To reduce any potential risks only share your VIN number with serious buyers that have verifiable details.
VIN numbers are often publicly visible
Your 17-character VIN can be found in various locations on your car:
If you can’t find it on your car, you can always find your VIN on your registration certificate, CTP(Compulsory Third Party) Insurance or car owner’s manual.
Can a buyer see my personal details from my VIN?
No, when someone searches for you VIN they can only see details about your vehicles and it’s history. None of your personal details are publicly linked to your VIN and only the police can access personal details from your VIN. So if you’re a law abiding citizen you have nothing to worry about!
Is it safe to share your VIN with a potential buyer?
Providing your VIN to a genuine buyer who has shown serious interest in purchasing your vehicle is a safe and recommended choice. It allows them to verify the car’s authenticity and ensure it’s not stolen. Sharing the VIN demonstrates your honesty as a seller and assures potential buyers that you have nothing to hide. However, as a precaution only share your VIN with serious buyers and don’t post it online in your job ad.
For a hassle-free selling experience and top cash for your car, contact our friendly team at 0487 000 600 or fill out our contact form above. We accept cars with or without registration, in any condition, offering free removal and the best deal. Best of all you won’t have to worry about scammers or non-serious buyers as we are a well trusted car buyer with over 10 years of experience in the industry.
