What is a "vehicle identification number" (VIN)?

A vehicle identification number (VIN) is a unique identifier assigned to each vehicle. This 17-character alphanumeric code serves several important functions, including providing a way to distinguish one vehicle from another, as no two vehicles in operation should have the same VIN. It contains specific information about the vehicle, such as its manufacturer, model, year of manufacture, place of production, and various other attributes that can aid in identification.

While the other options touch on related concepts, they do not accurately define what a VIN is. For instance, while VINs can be useful in tracking stolen vehicles or possibly in insurance claim processes, their primary role is as a unique identifier. Maintaining a vehicle may involve looking up a VIN, but the primary purpose of the VIN extends beyond maintenance to being a critical component in vehicle registration, history checks, and overall identification across various automotive systems.