Not Sure of Your Trim or VIN? Here’s Where to Look

You know what you drive, but now someone wants the trim, VIN and exact kilometres. Fair enough if you don’t have all that memorized. Before selling your car in Montreal, here’s where to find the details. You don’t need to become a car expert to get them right.

Getting these details right makes a used-car offer easier to assess. Here is where to start before selling your car in Montreal.

Find the VIN on the vehicle

On many passenger vehicles, the VIN is visible through the windshield near the driver’s side of the dashboard. You can also often find it on a label around the driver’s door opening. Compare it with your registration documents and copy it carefully.

Take a clear photo for your own reference rather than typing it repeatedly. If different documents show different numbers, resolve the discrepancy before moving ahead with a sale.

Confirm the trim and factory equipment

Start with the original purchase agreement, window sticker or build information supplied with the car. A manufacturer’s dealership may be able to help identify equipment using the VIN. A free VIN decoder can provide basic identification, but don’t assume it lists every option.

Separate factory equipment from accessories installed later. For example, aftermarket wheels don’t necessarily mean the vehicle has a particular factory appearance package. Tell the buyer what is confirmed and what still needs checking.

Read the current odometer

Use the total odometer reading, not the trip counter. Note whether it’s displayed in kilometres or miles, especially for an imported vehicle. Provide a current reading rather than the mileage from an old service invoice.

Gather history and ownership information

Look through your service invoices for maintenance and repair dates. Your registration helps identify the registered owner; your lender or leasing company can provide current financing information. Keep these details separate so a buyer doesn’t mistake a monthly payment for the amount needed to settle the account.

Share documents through an agreed channel and avoid posting unnecessary personal information in a online ad.

Our offer form only needs the basics to begin. Start your request, then have the remaining details ready for follow-up.

Reference: CARFAX Canada’s VIN guide.