VIN Verification: Signs of Tampering and How to Spot Them
When the color and hardware recorded on a vehicle’s VIN do not match reality, it can indicate a criminal origin of the car. This concern was discussed by Maxim Shelkov, who heads a center that analyzes auto crimes, in a conversation with SocialBites. He noted that secondary paint markings near the VIN can also signal manipulations.
Shelkov explained that if the VIN is still visible, the passcode or lookup details might be obtainable from an authorized dealer or through various online databases, including spare parts catalogs. He advised buyers to compare the vehicle’s color, equipment, and transmission type with what is typical for that make and model. It is important to verify the year of manufacture and the parts installed on the car against factory specifications, he stated to SocialBites.
According to Shelkov, attention should also be paid to the engine number. In many recent theft cases, the engine is left in its original state while the VIN is altered to create an impression of legitimacy. This means the engine number and VIN should be cross-checked for consistency.
Differences in paint shades where the VIN is applied to the car body, along with adjacent paint markings or dust residues, can indicate that the VIN has been changed. The same signs should prompt a thorough check of the entire marked panel—the part of the body where the alteration might have occurred—because attackers often replace that panel entirely to conceal traces of tampering.
Performing a self-check on a vehicle to identify crime carries risks and does not guarantee results, but these indicators help reveal clear and obvious inconsistencies in the vehicle’s documentation and markings, according to Shelkov.
An auto expert, Dmitry Rogov, pointed out that crossovers are popular choices among criminals in Russia when considering budget constraints, noting typical price points around 2 million rubles for some models. The discussion underscores the broader need for vigilant VIN verification across markets, including North America, where buyers should rely on official tags, verify through dealer channels, and consult reputable databases to confirm authenticity. This commentary was provided to SocialBites and reflects ongoing concerns about vehicle fraud across regions.
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