You ring us looking for brake pads for your Golf 7, and the first thing we ask is, "Can you send us your VIN number?" You're probably thinking, "Why do they need that? I've already told them the model and year!" I get it. But with VAG cars, the same model can leave the factory with several different types of brake pads, different filters and even different oil requirements. That's exactly why we need the VIN number for car parts. I want to make sure we're ordering the right part for your actual car, not something that just looks like it should fit.
What exactly is a VIN number?
Your VIN is your car's unique identification number, made up of 17 characters. You'll find it on your registration document, on the plate in the engine bay, on the door or beneath the windscreen. We use it to open the manufacturer's parts catalogue and see exactly what equipment your car left the factory with. No guessing based on the model and year.
What can we find out from your VIN number?
- The exact model, year and factory where your car was built.
- The engine code and gearbox code.
- The factory-fitted equipment, including brakes, suspension, headlights and air conditioning.
- The PR codes, which tell us why two cars that look identical might actually need different parts.
Why aren't the model and year enough?
Take the Golf 7, for example. It came with several different brake disc sizes, depending on the engine and equipment. The filters also depend on the engine, and with the oil, we need to get the exact VW specification right. Two Golf 7s from 2016 could have left the factory with completely different parts. If we just take a guess, the part might not fit at all. Then you're dealing with returns, another order and more waiting around. And do you know the worst part? You're the one who ends up paying for that mistake out of your own pocket, not the workshop. That's why I'd much rather check everything properly from the start.
What else can your VIN number tell us?
- We can check whether the manufacturer has issued any service campaigns or software updates.
- We can confirm the exact oil specification and requirements for the other fluids.
- We can find the correct wiper blades, floor mats and accessories for your particular car.
- When coding modules or dealing with Component Protection, we can check which equipment your car originally had from the factory.
Don't order parts just because the photo looks right and the listing says "fits Golf 7". Two parts can look exactly the same but still be different. Without checking the VIN, you risk ending up with a part meant for a completely different version of your car.
Is it safe to share your VIN number?
Yes. Your VIN is already visible beneath the windscreen of any parked car. On its own, it doesn't give anyone access to your personal details. We ask for it so we can check your car's factory equipment and find the parts that actually fit. Nothing more.
Tip from Kris Mladenov: Take a photo of your registration document or the plate showing your VIN and save it on your phone. Next time you need a part, you won't have to go hunting for that number again.
Need a part for your car? Send us your VIN number. We'll open the parts catalogue, check exactly which part your car needs and tell you when we can get it delivered. That way, you won't be ordering blindly or wasting time on parts that don't fit.
Read more
- Spare Parts and Accessories
- Diagnostics at Das Auto Service
- Genuine, OEM and Aftermarket Parts: What's the Difference?
- How Can I Check the Genuine Service History of a VAG Car?
- Component Protection: Why Won't a Module from Another Car Work?
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find my car's VIN number?
Check your registration document, beneath the windscreen, on the plate in the engine bay or on the door. You're looking for a 17-character number.
Why do you need my VIN number even for wiper blades?
Because on some models, even the wiper blades differ depending on the equipment fitted. We don't want to send you a set you can't fit. That's why we check your VIN and order the correct ones.
Is it safe to share my VIN number?
Yes. Your VIN doesn't contain your personal details, and it's visible beneath your car's windscreen. We need it to check the factory equipment and find out which parts fit.