The vehicle identification number (VIN) is composed of 17 characters (digits and capital letters) that act as a unique identifier for the vehicle. A VIN displays the car's unique features, specifications and manufacturer.
The VIN can be found in a couple of places including on the car's registration label (1), on the compliance plate in the engine bay (2) or on the passenger side windshield (3), or on one of the door posts (where the door latches when it is closed) (4). See the image below:
When a teenager reaches the age where they start learning to drive, it can be an exciting but also a scary and stressful time for both parents and teens. Here are some top tips to help get your teenager driving independently and safely.
Train your teen driver
In general, parents are responsible for ensuring their teens have the skills to be safe drivers. Whilst your teen is on their L plates, expose them to a wide range of driving conditions such as peak hour traffic, wet weather, open road and night time driving so they gain well rounded experience.
Also, if you can, have them undertake a defensive driving course to gain experience in high-pressure situations, giving them a feel for how the car operates in different circumstances, like sudden braking.
Buying the right used car for your teen
Buying a first car can be an emotional purchase. Your teen might have a dream car in mind, however there are a few checks you should do first. You’ll want it to be safe, as well as reliable and economical. It is also important to choose a car that is appropriate and easy to drive. A small hatch back might be more practical than a four wheel drive to help build your teen’s confidence when learning to drive.
Once you have taken a car for a test drive and made sure it is mechanically sound, a CarHistory check can help give you confidence before you hand over your (or your teen’s) hard earned cash.
Top tips for teens
Getting your P-plates is a very exciting time. However, during the transition from learner to P-plater, the risk of crashing skyrockets 20-30 times1. While P-platers drive less, they crash more and are mostly at fault. Don’t become a statistic.
For more information NSW Compensation Lawyers have compiled ‘Driving Lessons and Road Safety Tips for Teen Driving’ to help give you and your teen driver expert advice during this time.
With these tips in mind, you can help equip your child with important driving skills to serve them throughout their life.
1 keys2drive, Australian Government, 2017