Illinois VIN Check
How to Perform a VIN Lookup in Illinois?
VIN searches in Illinois are essential for interested parties looking to perform due diligence on vehicles they would like to purchase. These checks' results show the vehicle history, including changes of ownership, recalls, and more. By verifying the past experiences of a car, a party is in a better position to decide on the vehicle. GoodCar's reports adhere to the highest industry standards since it is an approved NMVTIS data supplier.
How to Find Your Car's VIN Number?
The vehicle identification number on a vehicle is a unique code issued by a manufacturer detailing its model specifications and relevant features. These codes can be found in specific places within a vehicle, like the door jamb of the driver's side. It may also be located on the driver's side dashboard, where it meets the windscreen. Some vehicles have the code under the hood near the engine as well. Typically, the VIN is open to all parties and should be searched by prospective buyers to verify the vehicle's record.
Why Should I Run a IL VIN Check?
Vehicle History
VIN checks in Illinois should be done by interested buyers looking to verify a seller's proposal. GoodCar's vehicle history reports include automobile specifications, defects, and title issues. Buyers may confirm model features to determine if these align with what has been advertised. The Problem Checks segment of the report confirms not only that a vehicle hasn't been totaled or dismantled but also that no damage from serious collisions or natural disasters occurred. The section looks for serious defects or issues that would result in a title brand indicating a significant area of concern with the vehicle.
Title Verification
GoodCar's title issues concern odometer records, sales history, and title brand problems. This section allows vehicle buyers to verify sales done and if there are any issues with the vehicle's title, indicating theft or suspicious activity. Title records allow people to check the mileage on the vehicle, in what states and how many times it was registered, and if there are any known issues with the title, such as flood damage, reconstructed title, salvage, and more.
Accident History
By examining the vehicle's accident history, prospective buyers may determine if the car had previously been in an accident and what documentation was filed. Accident checks are relevant because they could reveal latent issues in the vehicle or if the seller was trying to conceal that information. Illinois ranks eighth in car accidents, and rear-end collisions are the most common type. Buyers of used vehicles should verify them by first visiting the Accidents History section. Accident checks, clunker's repair, salvage, junk, and refurbishment show if the car has undergone significant work before sale. This can give a buyer the upper hand when negotiating pricing concerning the market value.
Mileage Verification
GoodCar also facilitates mileage record assessments for interested parties. Unfortunately, some sellers try to manipulate the odometer so it shows the vehicle has been used less so they can quote a higher value. There have been 73,400 vehicles that were estimated to be involved in odometer fraud in Illinois, which is a five percent increase from the previous year. In Illinois, odometer fraud is illegal, and a person might be awarded $1,500 or three times the damages as well as court costs in these cases.
Accurate Vehicle Specifications
When purchasing a vehicle, buyers should know all the accurate specifications and features of the vehicle. Many sellers misrepresent vehicle specifications and features, but an Illinois VIN check can resolve this issue easily. By looking under the Auto Specs section, you can see an organized list of the standard and optional features for the vehicle. Quickly see fuel efficiency ratings and vehicle measurements, including warranties, body style, safety and comfort features, and more.
Illinois Emissions Standards Compliance
Emissions testing is an important aspect to vehicle owners in Illinois. The majority of gas-operated vehicles have to go through an emissions test every two years, meaning passenger cars and light and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. Diesel vehicles and motorcycles also have to go through emissions testing. Vehicles that are less than four years old may be exempt from testing. The GoodCar VIN search can be used to determine an accurate vehicle age and learn about your vehicle's safety features. To ascertain the vehicle's emissions testing schedule, requesters can check the registration renewal notice sent by the Secretary of State or utilize the Air team platform to fit the model's testing history. Failing to comply with emissions testing requirements will result in penalties such as fines and registration suspension. The vehicle will not be legally operated until the emissions issue has been resolved and registration is given.
Recalls and Safety Standards
The NHTSA Recalls section of the report enables interested buyers to see if the vehicle has any recalls related to it. The report explains the defects associated with each recall as well as the corrective action necessary to repair the issue. This is important considering the thousands of vehicle recalls in Illinois that have not yet been fixed. It is a little-known safety issue that may cause unsuspecting buyers injuries or, worse, should the problem result in an accident.
Theft Check
The Problem Checks segment on a GoodCar report allows vehicle buyers to see if a vehicle was stolen and recovered, or if it has a salvage / stolen designation on its title. Buyers can use this section to verify there hasn't been any odometer tampering as well. These checks are especially useful considering vehicle theft in cities like Chicago is quite high. There are credible chances that a seller may be trying to dispose of stolen vehicles, so checking the records before any financial commitments would be advisable. In Illinois, one can face charges for possessing a stolen motor vehicle. That may incur a penalty of three to seven years in prison.
Illinois Police, Rental and Taxi Vehicles
Some buyers aren't interested in purchasing vehicles that once served as police, taxis, or rental vehicles. Vehicles that once had a commercial purpose likely suffer from high mileage, and many also have a greater number of dents and dings. With an Illinois VIN check from GoodCar, you can quickly see if a vehicle was previously used by a police department, or as a taxi or rental car. This information is in the Problem Checks section of the report and is covered as one of the 40+ Title Brand checks examined.
Natural Disaster-Related Reasons
Interested parties may also check GoodCar to confirm if the vehicle of interest has been affected by flood or fire damage. Illinois is severely affected by tornadoes, typical rain, and winter storms. These adverse weather events may have a lingering or sudden effect on vehicles. Fortunately, parties can view what types of wear the vehicle has been subjected to and note this as part of their considerations before purchase.
Illinois Lemon Laws
and How They Relate to VIN Checks
In Illinois, the Lemon law is called the New Vehicle Buyer Protection Act. If the customer finds their vehicle has a defect within a certain period, they may submit it to the manufacturer or authorized agent for repair. If the car is a lemon and does not conform to the warranty, the manufacturer has to repurchase the vehicle. In this case, the manufacturer has to pay the full price for the car. The legal warranty period is one year after the customer takes ownership or when the mileage reaches 12,000. Unfortunately, the Lemon law does not consider used vehicles. However, if the original warranty still covers them, the vehicles might still qualify for the Lemon law protections. Consumers may also be protected via the Magnuson Moss Warranty law.
The Title Transfer Process
In Illinois, if a consumer buys a vehicle from the dealer and handles the process of title transfer in-person, the buyer is required to provide their certificate of title, odometer readings, application for vehicle transactions, proof of identity, proof of insurance, file private party tax transactions and pay all taxes as well as fees. For title transfer in a private sale, the cost is $95. Corrected titles in the event of divorce, death, or marriage are $15. Lien addition or a duplicate title would each cost $95.
Illinois Insurance and Registration Requirements
Vehicle buyers are not allowed to operate them on public roads without insurance. Proof of insurance would also be needed at the time of registration. Individuals must have $25,000 for bodily injury in an accident, $20,000 for property damage, and $50,000 for total bodily coverage per accident. Buyers have 20 days from the date they purchased a vehicle to register it in Illinois but cannot operate it until they have purchased an approved cover.
Illinois Titling Requirements and Sales Tax
In Illinois, one would require a car title, proof of insurance, and an odometer disclosure statement to register a vehicle. An original title costs $165, while a corrected one is $50. Junk titles are free. The state charges 7.25% on vehicle purchases.
Illinois-Assigned VINs
The manufacturer provides the Vehicle Identification Number for all vehicles. It is listed on the title or registration. If the VIN does not match with the manufacturer's layout, the Secretary of State program will be overridden. If the manufacturer does not affix a VIN to the body, then the Illinois Secretary of State will assign a VIN.
Why Choose GoodCar for Illinois VIN Lookup?
GoodCar offers a comprehensive report system for vehicle buyers and other interested parties. These reports encompass different aspects of the vehicle, including problem checks, title records, vehicle specifications, salvage and total loss records, and more. Parties can look into virtually every aspect of a vehicle's records. GoodCar's reports are up-to-date and accurate as well, considering it is an approved NMVTIS data supplier.
Illinois Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
about Illinois VIN Checks
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Who Issues a Vehicle's VIN Number in Illinois?
VIN numbers in Illinois are issued by the manufacturer, though if this is not the case, state-assigned VINs can be given via the Secretary of State.
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How do I verify a VIN number in Illinois?
VIN checking may be done by a licensed vehicle dealer in Illinois or a state law enforcement officer.
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Is it safe to check a Illinois VIN online?
Yes, verifying an Illinois VIN online through platforms like GoodCar is safe. That is so prospective buyers can verify vehicle records, including titles, sales, and recalls.
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Do I need a VIN inspection in Illinois?
Both commercial and privately owned vehicles in Illinois have to go through VIN inspection before moving on to emissions testing. If the VIN is not verified, the vehicle will not go to the emissions test and will not be registered or renewed.
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Are Illinois VIN checks necessary for out-of-state vehicles brought into Illinois?
VIN checks in Illinois are required for out-of-state vehicles that are brought to Illinois. These are required, along with proof of residency, insurance, car title, and fees.
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What does a Illinois VIN check reveal?
Illinois VIN checks show the vehicle's specifications, accidents and other major issues, title records, and sales histories. These provide information on how the vehicle has been operated and transactions from the time of manufacture.
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Is it safe to give out a VIN in Illinois?
It is safe to give out VINs in Illinois, considering the code is in plain sight. Prospective buyers should check or share the VINs of vehicles they hope to purchase because the records on the vehicle are open for public viewing.
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Can you ask for the VIN from a Illinois seller?
Potential buyers and other interested parties are encouraged to ask for the VINs from sellers to verify a vehicle's historical report. The goal is to create an atmosphere of transparency which occurs when one has access to the historical record.