What type of number should you look for when buying a vehicle from an individual?

When buying a vehicle from an individual, the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the most crucial piece of information to look for. The VIN is a unique code assigned to every vehicle, serving as its fingerprint. It is used to track the vehicle's history, including past ownership, accident reports, and registration details. By examining the VIN, potential buyers can investigate the vehicle's background, ensuring that it has not been stolen or involved in significant accidents that may affect its value or safety.

The VIN is typically found in multiple places on the vehicle, such as on the dashboard near the windshield or inside the driver’s side door frame. It is essential for verifying the authenticity of the vehicle and comparing it against available records. This helps buyers make informed decisions and avoid potential scams.

While other numbers such as model numbers, maintenance numbers, or make and year numbers can provide supplementary information, they do not hold the same level of importance as the VIN in confirming the vehicle's identity and history.