As a fleet owner, you've probably heard about VINs. A VIN is a unique 17-digit figure used in the automotive sector to identify and track a vehicle. You can find it on the side of the dashboard, at the point where the dashboard meets the windshield.
On the other hand, a VIN number lookup is the ability to decipher the 17-digit code found in all automobiles. Being able to interpret a car's VIN helps you uncover details about its make, year of manufacture, mileage, and much more.
One of the best software you can use to read your car's VIN is MyGeotab. Read on for more details about using MyGeotab to decode VIN.
Reading the VIN Number
Reading the VIN isn't always easy. To help you, MyGeotab, an automotive data and software company, has created a website where you can look up your car's unique identifier. As your car's best friend, the VIN consists of the following sections:
- World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI)
The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) makes up the first three digits of the VIN. This section provides details of where the car was manufactured, the manufacturer, and the vehicle type.
- Vehicle Description Section (VDS)
VDS uses digits 4 to 8 to specify the vehicle details. This information comprises the make of the car or track, model, safety systems, engines, and brakes, among others.
- Check Digit
The check digit is the 9th number in a VIN. It has values ranging from 0-9 plus X. You can use this digit to screen any errors in your vehicle.
- Vehicle Identification Section (VIS)
The Vehicle Identification Section starts from digits 10-17. It gives you details of your car's model year and a serial number that the manufacturer assigns sequentially.
What is MyGeotab?
MyGeotab is an open-source tool to help you decode your vehicle's unique identifier. Using this tool, you can determine if your vehicle is a newer model if there are any aftermarket or factory upgrades, or an older make that is no longer produced. Furthermore, you can use this tool to check whether your vehicle has any reported theft, recalls, or accident cases within the past five years.
How to Use MyGeotab to Decode VIN
MyGeotab is an essential tool in helping fleet managers decode VINs for purposes of collecting procurement and maintenance details of vehicles. To use this tool, you need to log on to their website, enter the VIN you need to decode, and click enter. MyGeotab will interpret your VIN and provide you with all the details of your car.
Why use MyGeotab for Large Fleet Management?
As a fleet owner, you need a system that helps you optimize the management of your company. Using MyGeotab to understand VIN will help you:
- Identify mechanical issues early
MyGeotab provides you with updated information about the mechanical conditions of your vehicles. The details are crucial in identifying any problems that might interfere with your fleet operations.
- Respond to accidents quickly
Using MyGeotab, you will be able to get quick notifications regarding any vehicle that gets involved in an accident from your fleet. You can use this information to determine the cause of the accident and how to avoid it next time.
- Track Your Fleet's Activities
With this tool, you won't have problems finding out when your drivers started driving or the mileage they have covered. It is a reliable way of storing drivers' data compared to paper logs.
Get the Perfect Solution to Your Fleet Management
Wouldn't it be nice if you could manage your fleet with just a device in your pocket? Using MyGeotab to decode VIN does not only help you look up your cars' VIN quickly but also protects your fleet from damage and theft. Let us help you grow your business with our fleet solutions. Contact us today for more information on fleet management.
