VIN Verification Tool

[Lynn Stillings]

We have been using the Zuirch VIN verification tool in the past, but we no longer have a contract with them and can't access it any longer. I see plenty of web sites on Google search that seem to be pay as you go (they say it's free, but the free information doesn't provide much). I was wondering, what do other agenies use for VIN verification?
Thanks in advance.

[Jim Jensen]

There are plenty of VIN decoders online. Just google it.

[Lynn Stillings]

I did google it and got lots of hits. I was just curious if some sites are easier/better/cheaper than others and thought maybe I could save some research time by finding what other agencies use.

[Lance Bateman]

If the carrier doesn't do it (some do), we use Sage/SilverPlume.

[Jim Jensen]

I know NADA has one, most on the auto sites are free. I'd find one that works well and just bookmark it.

http://www.autocheck.com/consumers/gatewayAction.do?WT.mc_id=359&siteID=359

NADA's doesn't give all the info that ISO gives - doesn't have the passive restraint info, but does give most of the basics.

[Lynn Stillings]

Lance - I looked at the Sage website and can't find anything about VIN verification. Can you provide additional info about that?

Jim - don't want to sound ignorant, but what is ISO?

Thank you both!

[Jeff Zylstra]

Lance - I looked at the Sage website and can't find anything about VIN verification. Can you provide additional info about that?

Jim - don't want to sound ignorant, but what is ISO?

Thank you both!

Insurance Service Office.  They're the ones who do the legal groundwork and write the coverage forms for most policies in the USA.  They also develop suggested rates for most commercial lines which are then deviated from by the companies.

[Jim Jensen]

The ISO supplies the vehicle symbols for the industry and the auto symbols manual has VIN decoder info in them for each year. I don't know whether they have an electronic "decoder" where you just put it in or not - we stayed on the paper version until it was discontinued. Their info will give you model, engine, 2wd/4wd, passive alarm, air bags, etc.

[Jeff Zylstra]

The ISO supplies the vehicle symbols for the industry and the auto symbols manual has VIN decoder info in them for each year. I don't know whether they have an electronic "decoder" where you just put it in or not - we stayed on the paper version until it was discontinued. Their info will give you model, engine, 2wd/4wd, passive alarm, air bags, etc.

Doh!  Forgot to add the most relevant thing that ISO does for this conversation.  Thanks Jim.

[Lynn Stillings]

Thanks for the information, gentlemen. I'm off to their web site!

[Lynn Stillings]

I found everything I was looking for, from Autocheck,  ISO and also Sage. Thanks to all for your replies.