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How to Spot Fake Corvette Vin Numbers

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How to Spot Fake Corvette Vin Numbers

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When looking to buy a Corvette, or any classic car, it’s crucial to verify the authenticity of the vehicle prior to signing on the dotted line. The best way to do this is by checking the vehicle identification number (VIN) tag, which is a unique identifier assigned to every car.

A VIN tag provides essential information about the car’s history and specifications such as the make, model, and year. However, it’s also an easy target for fraudsters who may try to replace or tamper with it.

The team at Hobby Car Corvettes has bought, restored, and sold Corvettes to happy customers all around the world. Along the way, we’ve developed a trusty list of VIN tag red flags that we would like to share with you.

Common VIN Tag Red Flags

   1. Inconsistencies in the VIN

Throughout the history of the Corvette, the VIN has been stamped on a plate, but its location has changed several times over the years.

From 1953 to the beginning of 1960, you could find it on the driver’s side door post. Then, until 1962, Chevrolet kept it on the steering column in the engine bay. Between 1963 and 1967, it was affixed to the instrument support brace, which could be found beneath the glove box.

Movement didn’t stop there, however. For the 1968 model, it was placed atop the instrument panel and could be seen from the outside by looking through the windshield. Since then, placement has alternated between the instrument panel and the windshield support post.

The VIN plate is meant to be easy to find but, for verification purposes, it can also be found elsewhere on the Corvette. Common locations include the engine block, transmission, and frame.
So, if you’re interested in buying a Corvette, don’t just check the VIN plate and call it a day. Instead, check the rest of the car for additional VIN locations. If there are any inconsistencies in the VIN across these parts, it’s a big warning sign that the tag has been replaced or tampered with.

   2. Damage or Signs of Removal

Make sure to inspect the VIN plate for any signs of damage or removal, such as scratches, pry marks, or paint over the tag. These are all big red flags that often indicate the tag has been removed or replaced.

In addition to the VIN plate itself, check the surrounding area for signs of changed out rivets, repainting or repair work. These are also signs that the tag was replaced.

   3. Altered or Mismatched Rivets

The VIN plate has to be attached to the car one way or another. Rivets are the most common way to do this, but Chevrolet has also used spot welds and screws to get the job done. Depending on the Corvette you’re looking at, here’s what you should see:

  • 1953 – Early 1960: Pan head Phillips screws
  • Late 1960 – 1964: Spot welds
  • Early 1965: Pop rivets
  • 1965 – 1982: Rosette rivets

It’s easy to be focused on the VIN itself, but give the rivets a close look as well. If they don’t match or appear altered in any way, that’s another big red flag. Altered or mismatched rivets could be a sign that the VIN tag has been replaced.

   4. Incorrect Font and Spacing or Missing Digits

The numbers on the VIN tag should all be equally spaced and have a consistent font. If you notice that the spacing of a few numbers is off, or if the font appears to be different in certain areas, you might be looking at an altered, fraudulent tag.

Missing digits is also something to keep an eye out for. Although missing digits could be caused by damage or general wear and tear, it’s rare. A missing digit is more likely the result of someone trying to conceal a vehicle’s true identity.

What Happens if You Buy a Car with an Altered VIN?

Although laws vary from state to state, you shouldn’t get into any legal trouble for merely possessing a car with an altered VIN. Jail time and other penalties are reserved for individuals that knowingly altered, switched, or removed a car’s VIN tag.

However, If you’re found to be in possession of a vehicle that’s either missing its VIN tag or has a VIN tag that’s been tampered with, authorities may seize or even destroy it. This is a possibility even if you’ve insured the car and registered it with the DMV.

Why are the authorities allowed to do this? If the car was stolen before you bought it legally, it was still stolen.

We Check VINS So You Don’t Have To

We’ve been around the block a few times, so we know to keep an eye out for these red flags. If you’ve browsed our inventory and have your eye on a Corvette or two, you can rest assured knowing that we’ve already verified the VIN.

Before you buy, make sure to also check out our blog: What to Consider When Looking for a Classic Corvette.

Even if you don’t buy from Hobby Car Corvette, checking the VIN tag is a crucial step when buying any classic car. Look for inconsistencies in the VIN, damage or signs of removal, altered or mismatched rivets, incorrect font or spacing, and lack of history or documentation. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that you are buying an authentic and valuable classic car that will provide you with years of enjoyment.

 

Correct Vin Number

Fake Vin Number
FAKE VIN

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