Check Motorcycle Vin To See If Stolen
Motorcycle theft is a common problem in the United States. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), over 40,000 motorcycles were reported stolen in 2020. This is why it is essential to check the motorcycle VIN to see if it has been stolen before you buy it. In this article, we will discuss how to check motorcycle VIN to see if it is stolen and what to do if you find out it is.
What is a Motorcycle VIN?
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique code assigned to every vehicle manufactured. This includes motorcycles. The VIN is a 17-character code comprising both numbers and letters. It contains information about the motorcycle's manufacturer, model, year of manufacture, and other details.
Why Should You Check a Motorcycle VIN?
There are several reasons why you should check a motorcycle VIN before buying it. One of the most important reasons is to check if it has been stolen. If you unknowingly buy a stolen motorcycle, you may lose your money and the motorcycle. Moreover, you may have to deal with legal issues.
In addition to checking for theft, the motorcycle VIN can help you verify the motorcycle's history. It can tell you if the motorcycle has been in an accident, has a salvage title, or has undergone major repairs. All this information can help you make an informed decision about buying the motorcycle.
How to Check a Motorcycle VIN?
Checking a motorcycle VIN is a simple process. You can do it online or by contacting your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Online VIN check websites such as the NICB's VINCheck and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) VIN Decoder can help you check if the motorcycle has been reported stolen or has a salvage title. These websites are free to use and provide instant results.
You can also contact your local DMV for a VIN check. They can provide you with information about the motorcycle's title status, registration, and history. However, you may have to pay a fee for this service.
What to Do if You Find Out the Motorcycle is Stolen?
If you find out that the motorcycle you are interested in buying has been reported stolen, do not buy it. Instead, report it to the police immediately. You can also contact the NICB or the NHTSA to report the stolen motorcycle.
Buying a stolen motorcycle is illegal, and you may face legal consequences if you do so. Moreover, you will lose your money, and the motorcycle will be returned to its rightful owner.
Conclusion
Checking a motorcycle VIN to see if it is stolen is an essential step when buying a motorcycle. It can help you avoid buying a stolen motorcycle and facing legal issues. You can check the motorcycle VIN online or by contacting your local DMV. If you find out that the motorcycle is stolen, report it to the police immediately. Always be cautious when buying a used motorcycle and verify its history before making a purchase.