What is a VIN?

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to each car during production. Think of it as a vehicle’s fingerprint, providing a specific identity that distinguishes it from other vehicles.

It’s usually made up of 17 characters, including both letters and numbers and serves a few purposes, including:

• World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI): The first three characters of the VIN represent the World Manufacturer Identifier, indicating the vehicle’s country of origin and the manufacturer.
• Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS): The next five characters in the VIN make up the Vehicle Descriptor Section. This segment provides information about the vehicle’s make, model, engine type, body style, and series.
• Check Digit: The ninth character is a check digit calculated based on the other characters in the VIN. It ensures the accuracy of the VIN and helps prevent errors during data entry.
• Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS): Following the check digit, the Vehicle Identifier Section comprises the next eight characters, offering specifics about the vehicle’s features, such as its production plant, model year, and unique serial number.

Significance of a VIN:

• Vehicle History: The VIN plays a crucial role in accessing a vehicle’s history. Potential buyers can retrieve information about accidents, title issues, odometer readings, and more.
• Registration and Insurance: VINs are essential for vehicle registration and insurance purposes. They serve as a unique identifier when processing paperwork with governmental agencies and insurance companies.
• Recalls and Safety Issues: Manufacturers use VINs to issue recalls or address safety concerns. This ensures that specific batches of vehicles with potential issues are identified and rectified.
• Law Enforcement and Theft Prevention: Law enforcement agencies may use VINs to track stolen vehicles. Additionally, VINs help prevent fraud by verifying the legitimacy of a vehicle’s identity.
• Vehicle Appraisals: VINs are utilised in the appraisal process when determining a vehicle’s value. They provide detailed information about the car’s specifications and features.

Where can I find the VIN on my Tesla?

There are a few ways to find your VIN on your Tesla. See options below:

1. Driver’s Side Dashboard
   One of the most accessible locations for your Tesla’s VIN is on the driver’s side dashboard. Positioned at the base of the windshield, this metal plate is easily visible from outside the vehicle, making it a convenient starting point.
   
   
2. Driver’s Side Door Frame
   If you open the driver’s side door and inspect the frame, you’ll likely find a sticker or metal plate bearing the VIN, offering a detailed look at your Tesla’s unique identifier.
   
   
3. Tesla Mobile App
   You can find most of the information you’ll ever need in your Tesla mobile app. Navigate to “Controls” and select “Software” to reveal your Tesla’s VIN.
   
   
4. Vehicle Registration and Insurance Documents
   Delve into the insurance paperwork for your Tesla, including vehicle registration and insurance documents. Often your Tesla’s VIN in these official papers, creating an easy-to-access reference.
   
   
5. Vehicle Title
   When you first purchase your vehicle, you are given paperwork and a receipt.  The VIN is a prominent feature on this official document, consolidating essential vehicle information in one place.
   
   
6. Centre Display (For Some Models)
   Certain Tesla models offer the VIN on the centre display. Touch the Tesla “T” at the top centre, select “Software,” and it also be found there
   
   
7. Frunk (Front Trunk) Area – Unveiling the Front Secrets:
   For a unique twist, explore the front trunk (frunk) area. Lift the hood, and you might discover the VIN on a sticker or metal plate.

All makes and models have slight variations.  Check your user manual and app for more information. 

Why do you need the VIN for KOBA?

KOBA syncs to your car so we can measure the distance you drive and give you updates about your EV and the way you use it. When you sign up to KOBA Electric Vehicle insurance, the next step is to connect your car’s vehicle data. KOBA’s EV insurance is currently available for Tesla vehicles only. 

To assist in connecting your car, you can provide your VIN at the end of policy purchase. This allows policyholders to initiate vehicle connection and grant permission for KOBA to access and receive telemetry information. This authorisation occurs within Tesla’s user account in a secure environment. 

Once connected, KOBA can access information such as driving behaviour, including the distances you’ve driven, odometer readings, trips and other vehicle information such as battery status indicators. 

Log into your Tesla account after purchase, connect your vehicle data and get discounts for lower kilometres, car care insights and driving stats to help you get the best out of your EV.

*KOBA Electric Vehicle Comprehensive Car Insurance is currently only available for Tesla Vehicles.

Any advice provided on this site is general advice only and does not take into account your individual needs, objectives or financial situation. Terms, limits, conditions and exclusions apply. Before making a decision, you should carefully read the Product Disclosure Statement & Financial Services Guide (PDS & FSG), and the Target Market Determination (TMD), which are available at kobainsurance.com.au to help you decide if the product is right for you. 

The information is intended to be of general nature only. Subject to any rights you may have under any law (including the Australian Consumer Law), we do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss or damage, including loss of business or profits or any other indirect loss, incurred as a result of reliance upon the information. Please make your own enquiries.