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:
Do you feel a personal connection to your car? You should. It's something that you probably spent a fair amount of money on, and you're likely inside it for many hours a week. If you don't feel like it's a reflection of your personality, then you won't be enjoying your time inside it. That's just not acceptable. It's also important to make sure the second-hand car that you're buying has been looked after - a CarHistory report can help give you the assurance you're after.
You need to have fun when you're driving. A major part of this is finding a car that suits your needs, and your personality. Motoring Australia suggests that the big three (hatchbacks, sedans and SUVs) cover a wide range of Australian drivers1. However, station wagons are another great option for those who want a mixture of them all.
What's the best sort of car for you?
1) Hatchbacks
It's zippy and fuel-efficient and fits in virtually any parking space you can find around town.
A hatchback is typically the smallest type of car available. It's zippy and fuel-efficient and fits in virtually any parking space you can find around town.
This is the perfect car for anyone who doesn't want to cram large sports bags or golf clubs in the boot (you might not be able to fit them without putting the back seat down). Hatchbacks do work well for getting around the CBD, though. They don't guzzle the gas, so you won't feel guilty about commuting to work. They are also light and punchy, which suits some people down to the ground.
2) Sedans
This, and the following option, are the perfect middle-ground options between hatchbacks and SUVs. Sedans in particular are very common. They're the typical businessperson car, because they can do all the same things as a hatchback, but stand more stately on the road, and offer far more legroom in the second row of seats.
3) Station wagons
Station wagons are the next step up - there are more options on the market that feature a four-wheel-drive drivetrain, which makes weekend getaways more adventurous. They also have a hatch boot lid, and more rear space, so can be loaded up with more gear. If you're after a practical car that isn't too big, then don't go past a station wagon.
4) SUVs
SUVs are the biggest type of car on this list - not so great if you're on the short side of average height, because getting in and out of the car will be a chore1. For the taller folk, or someone who lives or works on a farm or building site that requires extra ground clearance, though, this is the perfect car.
You can also have far more seats in an SUV - up to nine2!
If you're after a change of car, make sure you get a CarHistory report to check that everything's in order. Other than that, choose the body shape that suits your needs.
1. Motoring Australia. New car dilemma. Accessed November 2016.
2. Matt Castrucci Mazda. 4 benefits of owning an SUV. Accessed November 2016.