Vehicle fraud is unfortunately common in the used car market. One way to protect yourself is by knowing how to spot a fraudulent VIN. Signs of VIN tampering include inconsistent font sizes or spacing, signs of physical alteration, or VINs that don't match on different parts of the vehicle.
Here are key warning signs of VIN fraud:
1. **Physical Tampering**: Look for signs of alteration such as scratches, different font styles, or misaligned characters in the VIN plate.
2. **Inconsistent VINs**: Check that the VIN matches in all locations (dashboard, door jamb, vehicle documents).
3. **Missing Digits**: A legitimate VIN always has 17 characters (for vehicles manufactured after 1981).
4. **Invalid Check Digit**: The 9th character is a mathematically calculated check digit that validates the VIN.
5. **Suspicious Documentation**: Be wary of sellers with incomplete or suspicious paperwork.
6. **Recent Title Changes**: Multiple recent title transfers could indicate title washing to hide problems.
7. **Mismatched Vehicle Description**: If the vehicle features don't match what the VIN decoding indicates, this is a red flag.
Always verify the VIN through multiple sources and consider getting a professional inspection before purchasing a used vehicle. A comprehensive VIN check report can help identify potential fraud and provide peace of mind when making a vehicle purchase.