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How Your VIN Number Ensures Accurate Car Glass Identification

Written by Eric

Feb 5, 2024

In the ever-evolving world of automotive technology, precision is paramount, and I’m here to guide you through this fascinating explanation of the car VIN number. 

Car windscreen with visible VIN number

Precision is crucial in our daily work regarding all new and requested car glass replacements. Whether you require a windscreen replacement, rear window replacement, or any other car glass service, ensuring the correct fit for your vehicle is essential.

To obtain a replacement quote, you will likely need to provide your vehicle registration or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You might wonder why this is necessary and why they can’t offer you a price.

This seemingly straightforward request is vital to ensure your car receives the correct glass replacement, and that you receive an accurate quotation based on the information retrieved from the vehicle’s registration and/or VIN number.

At UK Car Glass, we have developed a technological solution to offer you an instant online quote that is accurate in over 90% of cases. To get there, you must answer a few questions accurately about your car’s features for newer car models.

These questions may include whether the glass is heated, if you have a rain sensor, or if your vehicle features ADAS functions like Lane Departure Warning, among others.

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Understanding Your VIN – What is a VIN Number?

 

Deciphering your VIN is relatively straightforward when dealing with a car glass replacement company. It allows us to access crucial information about your vehicle quickly.  

Think of your VIN as your car’s unique code; it’s a distinct 17-character alphanumeric code that reveals your vehicle’s identity, including its make, model, year, and place of manufacture.
 

Your VIN is divided into three sections: the World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI), the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS), and the Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS). 

  • The WMI, comprising the first three characters, represents the country and manufacturer. 
  • The VDS, encompassing characters 4 to 9, details the make, model, body, and engine type. 
  • The last eight characters, the VIS, are unique to your vehicle and offer information about the year, assembly plant, and serial number.

One of the primary purposes of the VIN number is to ensure compatibility when replacing car glass.  

Checking your VIN is crucial, especially before dispatching a technician to your location to get the job done, avoiding costly mistakes. There’s nothing more unprofessional than arriving with the wrong car glass. 

We cross-check every new booking or quote request using a VIN decoding process with service providers in the UK, such as WhatWindscreen. Using the correct glass is not a matter of aesthetics but is enforced to uphold driving safety. 

Attempting to install the wrong glass can lead to poor visibility, compromised structural integrity, legal issues, and a failed MOT.

Each VIN lookup costs up to £2.50 per search.  

We access the VIN by searching using your vehicle registration, ensuring a smooth process. Let’s be fair: who has their vehicle identification number memorised?

The VIN’s Role in Glass Identification

 

Auto manufacturers produce vehicles of the same model and year with slightly different glass features, also known as trims. For instance, some might have rain sensors, while others do not. 

When we run a parts check with your VIN, we can swiftly determine the exact features of your car’s original glass, ensuring a precise match.

 

Ensuring Correct Car Glass Replacement

 

This unique 17-digit number contains all the specifics about your vehicle, including the correct type of glass required.  

It’s not just about size and shape. Factors like tint, rain sensor, and heating elements can vary depending on your car’s make, model, and year.

 

How to Locate – where to find VIN Number on Car?

 

Locating your VIN is relatively easy. Here are some common places where you can find it:

 

  • Dashboard: The most common location is on the dashboard, near the windscreen. It is usually visible from outside the car and can be seen through the windscreen.

     

  • Driver’s Side Door: Open the driver’s side door and look for a sticker on the door frame or edge. The VIN is often printed there.

     

  • Under the Hood: Some vehicles have the VIN stamped on various parts under the hood, such as the engine block or radiator support.

     

  • Vehicle Registration and Insurance Documents: Your VIN number is also present on your vehicle registration and insurance documents.

     

  • Owner’s Manual: You can find your VIN number in the owner’s manual that came with your car.

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Eric

Eric

Eric is the driving force behind the Sales and Operations team at UK Car Glass. His role there is not merely a job but an extension of his passion. He's ardently dedicated to ensuring customers receive top-tier service while also remaining on the pulse of the latest trends and innovations in the automotive industry. So, Eric's your go-to guy, whether you're a fellow car nerd looking to discuss the subtle differences between American produced car models or someone needing expert guidance on car glass solutions.

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