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:
What's your commute like? It's boring and frustrating and might be spent in traffic jams, sure, but what sort of terrain do you cover? Not everyone commutes into the city, or along nice roads, for that matter. If you live out in the country, it's likely that you'll have to cross gravel roads. A low sports car won't be suitable for that sort of drive.
We all have different routes to work, and different needs based on our professions. What sort of car from the list below suits your commute? If you do think you should buy a different second-hand car to make your commute more comfortable (or more fun), make sure you know its reported history with a CarHistory report.
1) A sports car
A sports car may be the perfect option for people in the city who park securely, and undercover. They can be loud, fast and fun, plus they're good for driving on smooth city roads. The average commute in Australia (based on residential address) is 15.6 kilometres, according to the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development1.
How long is your daily commute?
Even a convertible or a coupe can be a good commuting car. Find one that doesn't guzzle the gas and has excellent ratings for greenhouse gas emissions and you'll be doing your bit for the environment too!
2) A station wagon
Station wagons are more suited for people who need to take a lot of gear with them to work - large boots and higher ground clearance make for an excellent ride and plenty of room to get everything inside.
Station wagons are suitable for city commutes too, but unnecessary if you don't need to take tools or large items into the office. In this instance, a passenger vehicle like a small or medium sedan may suffice.
3) A ute or four-wheel-drive
Commutes aren't only into town - they can be to a work site or to a mine or even a conservation hut deep in the wilderness.
The average commute for a remote region is 31.2 kilometres1.
If you're in a remote area, you may also have to traverse more adverse terrain, which could include gravel roads, small river crossings and even some mud.
Commutes aren't only into town - they can be to a work site or to a mine or even a conservation hut deep in the wilderness. For any of these tough journeys, you'll need a car that can handle it all - utes and four-wheel-drives are great options, and they can be loaded heavily with your gear too.
Before you jump into buying a second-hand car that's better suited to your commute, make sure you fully check it out with a CarHistory report, as well as a physical and mechanical inspection. Get in touch today for more information.
1. Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development. Australia's commuting distance: cities and regions. Accessed January 2018