As an auto mechanic with over 20 years of experience, I recognize how crucial it is to completely investigate a vehicle’s history before buying. Running a Ram VIN check is the finest way to get useful insights into any Ram vehicle so you can make a knowledgeable purchasing determination.
Hi, I’m Robby the mechanic, and in this extensive overview, I’ll explain everything you need to know about Ram VIN numbers, how to decode them, where to find the VIN on your Ram, and why performing a Ram VIN lookup is so necessary.
What is a Ram VIN Number?
VIN signifies the Vehicle Identification Number. It is a unique 17-character alphanumeric code attributed to every Ram vehicle at the production facility. This number contains key information about your Ram such as:
Maker: The first 3 numbers identify the maker, make, and division. For Ram, it will start with “1FT”, “2FM”, or “3FA”.
Car Attributes: The following 6 digits denote the car type, model, body style, engine size, and restraint system.
Assembly Details: The last 8 digits display the model year, assembly plant, and production order number.
No two Ram cars will in history have the matching VIN. It’s like your car’s fingerprint or social security number, used to differentiate it from all other car on the road.
How to Decode a Ram VIN Number
Let’s decode a example Ram VIN number and see what each letter reveals:
1FTEX1C86AF256478
1FT: Ram Motor Company, USA
E: Incomplete automobile
X: Restraint system (seat belts)
1C8: Ram F-150 XL SuperCrew Cab, 5.4L V8 Triton
6: Verification number
A: 2010 model year
F: Dearborn, MI production facility
256478: Distinct sequence code
So in summary, this VIN shows our automobile is a 2010 Ram F-150 XL SuperCrew Cab pickup with a 5.4L V8 engine, assembled in Dearborn, MI.
Use our complimentary Ram VIN decoder utility to promptly unlock the secret insights of any Ram VIN number.
Where to Find the VIN on Your Ram
- On the driver’s side dashboard visible through the windshield
- On the driver’s side door jamb and B-pillar
- Beneath the bonnet on the bonnet catch or radiator support
- On the frame just within the driver’s door
- On the car ownership documents, license paperwork, and policy forms
If can’t find it this way, you can always ask a Ram mechanic online for help.
If you’re buying a used Ram, verify twice that the VIN on the vehicle itself corresponds to the VIN on the paperwork. This verifies it is the actual vehicle portrayed there.
Why Check Your Ram VIN Before Buying
Verify Accident History
A VIN report will reveal any reported collisions or accident damage. This allows you to assess repairs needed and avoid automobiles rebuilt using inferior or unsafe methods. Significant accident history can severely influence value and safety.
Check for Open Recalls
Decode the VIN to promptly check for any pending Ram defect notices. Neglected recalls can be hazardous and costly fixes down the road. Resolve recalls before purchase for peace of mind.
Spot Odometer Rollbacks
Shady dealers often alter mileage gauges to show false low miles. A VIN search finds mileage inconsistencies by cross-checking measurements from past oil changes, smog checks, and registrations. Don’t get cheated by odometer fraud.
Confirm Ownership History
Decode the VIN to uncover how many prior owners the Ram had and get more knowledge from a one-keeper vs multi-keeper vehicle.
Check for Theft & Title Issues
A decoded VIN displays the automobile’s title status such as salvage, rebuilt, or parts only. This allows you to avoid stolen and salvaged cars wrongfully put back on the road. Ownership problems can prevent registration or funding and necessitate costly fixes to fix.
Review Maintenance Records
Many VIN lookups provide maintenance records connected to the car such as oil changes and dealership repair orders. Examine these to assess how well the prior keeper maintained the vehicle. Insufficient records could signify neglect.
Get an Estimated Value
VIN Research indicates the reasonable market price range for the Ram’s year, brand, style and features. This avoids paying too much and helps price negotiations. Only pay what the vehicle is truly worth according to its history and condition.
For total peace of mind, I recommend performing a full VIN lookup from a trusted service like ours at Mechanic Answer. Our Ram VIN decoder and checks provide all this essential insight and more to protect buyers from acquiring a defective vehicle. Our technicians can also respond to any questions you have about the Ram you’re looking to buy.
The Role of NHTSA in Ram VIN Lookup
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is instrumental in setting standards and overseeing of Ram VINs.
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How NHTSA Standardizes VINs
The NHTSA stipulates all road-legal vehicles to have a 17-character VIN. Such a standard helps ensure that each VIN is unique and offers exact information about the vehicle.
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Using NHTSA’s VIN Lookup Tool
NHTSA presents a free-of-charge basic Ram VIN decoder tool on its online platform. Through this tool enables users to check if a Ram carries outstanding safety recalls that haven’t been addressed, offering added peace of mind when buying a used Ram.
Ram VIN Report Example
VIN: 1FTEW1EF1FF234269
Free Ram VIN Decoding Results:
Maker: Ram
Vehicle Type: F-150 Pickup
Model: XLT SuperCab 6.5′ box 4WD
Restraint System: Active belts
Motor: 3.5L V6 EcoBoost motor
Model Year: 2015
Assembly Plant: Dearborn, MI
Production Code: 234269
This indicates our automobile is a 2015 Ram F-150 XLT SuperCab Pickup with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine constructed in Dearborn, MI.
Full Mechanic Answer VIN Report:
Previous Owners: 4
Maintenance History: 96 Service Records Found
Registration: Clean (Problem-free)
Last Reported Mileage: 152,xxx
Accident History: 1 Minor Accident
Thefts Reported: 0
Liens: 0
Present-Day Pricing: $18,000 – $21,000
The full VIN check delivers this information and more, depending on your vehicle. It’s a wealth of additional insights not obvious from just the simple free VIN decoder tools. This enables buyers to make the right choice and dodge high-priced hidden problems.
How We Provide the Most Value for Ram Shoppers
Thorough VIN Checks – Our full VIN checks include over 200 data points far beyond just basic decoding. You get the total car background report to avoid getting a problematic car
Low Cost – With the best price available online you save the maximum amount of money when getting the crucial info you need to save money when buying or selling a car. Try it and see.
Countrywide Market Value – Mechanic Answer provides precise pricing ranges for the Ram based on real sales data in your local area. This avoids overpaying.
NMVTIS Data – Our Ram VIN decoder tool makes use of many databases, like the NMVTIS federal database for the most up-to-date registration, status, and stolen vehicle info.
Mobile-Friendly – Mechanic Answer’s VIN decoder functions flawlessly on all platforms and screens. You can decode on your cell phone right from the dealer’s lot.
User-Friendly – Reports are structured for consumer ease of use, with no confusing codes or industry jargon. All terminology is clarified in plain English.
Unbiased – As an independent third-party, Mechanic Answer has no dealer affiliations or bias. You get unprejudiced data to make an informed decision.
Client Assistance – Helpful and qualified customer service reps are accessible 6 days a week to address any vehicle history questions. Just email us at [email protected], we’re always happy to help.
Mechanic Answer wants to see you pull away from the lot securely in the Ram of your dreams. Our Ram VIN decoder removes the dangers and enables purchasers with the vehicle insights they need to make a wise acquisition. The modest initial cost can save thousands in the long run. And we do it all, it doesn’t matter if you need a Ram lookup or a Acura VIN Lookup, we’ve got you covered!
So feel free to decode your VIN with our free carfax report by vin service and get the complete car history report today!
I hope this complete guide provides you assurance when shopping for Ram cars for your next purchase. If you have any questions at all, feel free to reach out! We’re glad to help you in finding the right Ram to fit your needs and budget.
Useful Resources
DMV: The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in your state can provide information on how to obtain a vehicle history report, title information, and registration details. They can also provide information on how to transfer ownership of a vehicle and register a vehicle in your name. You can find the local DMV office near you here.
National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS): NMVTIS is a government-run database that provides information on a vehicle’s title, odometer reading, and salvage history. This database is accessible to the public, but reports must be obtained through a third-party provider.
License Plate Lookup: The best service for this online is Bumper, we have used them often and can recommend them.
Vin Lookup & Free Vin Decoder! (2023)
🚗 Ever wondered how to uncover the history of a used car before buying? Dive into the fascinating world of VIN decoding and VIN reports! Learn the importanc...
Frequently Asked Questions about Ram VIN Lookups
Here are answers to some common questions about decoding Ram VIN numbers and using vehicle history reports:
Where can I decode my Ram’s VIN for free?
Many websites offer no cost basic VIN decoding for Rams which display brand, style, model year, and assembly details. However, free decoders miss out on key car history like crashes, owners, and title checks. Mechanic Answer offers endless complimentary VIN search as an exclusive service to our readers.
What if my Ram doesn’t have a VIN?
All Ram automobiles built after 1981 have a unique VIN. Older classics may lack a VIN, in which case experts can provide an appraisal of the vehicle to confirm its authenticity. Contact a professional valuator focused on classic Rams for vehicles without VINs.
Can I find my Ram’s VIN if I lost my paperwork?
Yes – your Ram’s VIN is etched in various locations on the automobile itself, such as the dashboard, door jambs, under the hood, and frame. You can obtain the VIN to run a decoding or full history check even without paperwork.
What additional info is in a paid Ram VIN check vs a free one?
Free VIN decoders only provide basic information like brand, model, year and manufacturing details. Paid VIN checks from companies like Mechanic Answer deliver you the complete report on title issues, accidents, keepers, fixes, worth, recalls and complete vehicle history so you can make an educated purchase. Think of the small fee as protection against purchasing a problem vehicle.
How can I check recalls on my Ram VIN?
The two optimal ways to inspect outstanding Ram defect notices are:
- Try Mechanic Answer’s free VIN checker which checks for recalls as part of the vehicle history report.
- Enter your VIN on Ram’s official recall site.
What does a clean title mean on a Ram?
A clear title means the Ram has no major issues like rebuild status, theft history, or major accidents. It verifies the Ram has a transparent, moveable ownership title. This is ideal when purchasing any used vehicle. Mechanic Answer decodes the VIN and provides title status as part of our car history reports.
