Vehicle Chassis Number Check UAE: Free VIN Tools & Guide 2025

Buying a used car in the UAE is a smart way to save money, but it comes with risks, such as hidden accidents, tampered mileage, or stolen vehicles. A vehicle chassis number check, also known as a VIN check, is your key to uncovering a car’s history, ensuring a safe and informed purchase. 

This comprehensive 2025 guide explains everything you need to know about chassis number checks in the UAE, including free and paid tools, step-by-step instructions, emirate-specific services, and tips to avoid scams. Whether you’re in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, we’ve got you covered.

How to check a vehicle’s chassis number in UAE?

Use the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), found on the car’s registration card (Mulkiya), dashboard, or driver’s side door jamb, to access history reports. Visit free platforms like Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG) or Ministry of Interior (MOI), enter the VIN, and view details like accident history, ownership, and theft records. For Dubai-registered vehicles, use the RTA Technical Vehicle Status Certificate (AED 120) or visit Tasjeel (approx. AED 475).

What is a Chassis Number (VIN)?

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), often called the chassis number, is a unique 17-character alphanumeric code assigned to every vehicle manufactured after 1981. Think of it as a car’s DNA, encoding details about its make, model, year, manufacturer, and history. In the UAE, the VIN is critical for checking a vehicle’s legitimacy and history, especially when buying used cars.

Chassis Number vs. VIN: What’s the Difference?

• VIN: The full 17-digit code, standardized globally (ISO 3779), containing:
• Digits 1–3: World Manufacturer Identifier (country and maker).
• Digits 4–8: Vehicle specifications (model, body type, engine).
• Digit 9: Check digit for VIN validation.
• Digit 10: Model year.
• Digits 11–17: Serial number, including the chassis number.
• Chassis Number: Typically, the last 6–8 digits of the VIN, used historically but now synonymous with VIN in modern contexts.

Why Check a Chassis Number in the UAE?

A VIN check reveals critical information to protect you from costly mistakes:

• Accident History: Identify past collisions, repairs, or structural damage.
• Fraud Detection: Spot tampered VINs or mismatched documents, indicating potential scams.
• Theft Records: Ensure the car isn’t reported stolen.
• Ownership Details: Verify the seller’s legitimacy and the number of previous owners.
• Mileage Verification: Detect odometer fraud, common in used car markets.
• Traffic Fines: Avoid inheriting unpaid fines.
• Recalls and Specs: Check for manufacturer recalls or confirm GCC vs. non-GCC specifications.

Where to Find Your Vehicle’s Chassis Number (VIN)

Before checking a car’s history, locate its VIN in one of these common places:

1. Registration Card (Mulkiya): Listed on the back of the UAE vehicle registration card.
2. Driver’s Side Dashboard: Visible through the windshield, near the lower left corner.
3. Driver’s Side Door Jamb: Printed on a sticker or metal plate where the door latches.
4. Under the Hood: Near the engine bay, firewall, or radiator support.
5. Vehicle Documents: Insurance papers, purchase invoice, or service records.
6. Trunk Area: Under the spare tire or on the floor panel (less common).

Tip: Always cross-check the VIN on the car with the Mulkiya. Mismatches or signs of tampering (e.g., scratched or altered numbers) are red flags for fraud or theft.

What Does a Chassis Number Check Reveal in the UAE?

A VIN check provides a detailed history report, helping you make an informed decision:

• Fraudulent Activities: Mismatched VINs across the car and documents suggest tampering, possibly due to stolen parts or cloning.
• Vehicle Age and Brand: The VIN decodes the car’s manufacturing year, make, model, and origin (e.g., GCC or imported).
• Accident History: Reveals past collisions, repair costs, and whether airbags were deployed, indicating severity.
• Theft History: Confirms if the vehicle was reported stolen via police or MOI databases.
• Mileage Records: Cross-checks odometer readings to detect rollback fraud.
• Ownership History: Shows the number of previous owners and registration transfers.
• Traffic Fines: Identifies outstanding traffic fines linked to the vehicle.
• Recalls and Specifications: Highlights open recalls or confirms GCC specs for warranty eligibility.

Example: A VIN check might reveal that a 2018 Toyota Camry was in a major accident in 2020, repaired with non-GCC parts, and has an unpaid AED 500 fine, allowing you to negotiate or walk away.

Free vs. Paid Chassis Number Check Tools in the UAE

The UAE offers both free and paid services for VIN checks, each with pros and cons:

Note: Fees are based on 2025 data and may vary. Always verify costs on official websites.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Chassis Number in the UAE

1. Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG) – Free

EVG provides free accident history for vehicles registered in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah (excludes Dubai-only registrations).

• Steps:
1. Visit evg.ae.
2. Click “Traffic Accidents Management” or use the “Quick Search” function.
3. Enter the 17-digit VIN in the search field.
4. Submit to view accident details (location, date, report number) or a “No Accidents” message.
• Limitations: No Dubai data; limited to accident history.

2. Ministry of Interior (MOI) – Free

MOI covers all emirates, including vehicles transferred to Dubai, but may miss Dubai-only registrations.

• Steps:
1. Go toportal.moi.gov.ae and select “Accidents Inquiry.”
2. Enter the VIN in the provided field.
3. Click “Search” to view accident history (dates, locations, severity) or a “No Records” result.
• Advantages: Broader coverage than EVG; free and quick.

3. Abu Dhabi Police – Free

Ideal for Abu Dhabi-registered vehicles, offering accident and theft checks.

• Steps:
1. Visites.adpolice.gov.ae and select “Vehicles’ Accidents Inquiry.”
2. Input the VIN.
3. Review results for accident or theft records.
• Best For: Abu Dhabi residents or buyers.

4. Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) Dubai – AED 120

RTA’s Technical Vehicle Status Certificate provides detailed reports for Dubai-registered vehicles.

• Steps:
1. Go torta.ae.
2. Navigate to “Vehicle Status Certificate” under “Traffic Services.”
3. Enter the VIN and pay AED 120.
4. Receive the certificate via email, detailing accidents, ownership, fines, and insurance.
• Note: Requires coordination with the current owner for a code, takes longer than free tools.

5. Tasjeel Service Centres – ~AED 475

In-person checks at Tasjeel centres offer comprehensive reports.

• Steps:
1. Visit a Tasjeel centre (locations attasjeel.ae).
2. Provide the VIN and pay ~AED 475.
3. Receive a report on accidents, mileage, fines, and ownership.
• Best For: Buyers needing detailed, verified data.

6. Private Services: CarReport and CarFax

For imported vehicles or detailed reports, use private platforms:

• CarReport (AED 99):
• Covers UAE and imported cars.
• Includes accidents, ownership, mileage, and valuation.
• Visitcarreport.com.
• CarFax (AED 119.77):
• Detailed checks for UAE and imported vehicles.
• Includes flood damage, service history, and total loss records.
• Available via vehiclereport.me or authorized resellers.
• Steps: Enter the VIN on their websites, pay the fee, and download the report.

Emirate-Specific Chassis Number Checks

Dubai

• Best Tools: RTA (AED 120), Dubai Police helpline (free, call 901), Tasjeel (~AED 475).
• Limitations: EVG excludes Dubai-registered vehicles; MOI may miss Dubai-only data.
• Tip: Use RTA for comprehensive reports or Dubai Police for quick accident checks.

Abu Dhabi

• Best Tools: Abu Dhabi Police (free), EVG (free), MOI (free), Tasjeel (~AED 475).
• Advantages: Broad coverage via Abu Dhabi Police and EVG.
• Tip: Start with Abu Dhabi Police for free accident and theft checks.

Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah

• Best Tools: EVG (free), MOI (free), Tasjeel (~AED 475).
• Advantages: EVG and MOI cover these emirates comprehensively.
• Tip: Use EVG for a quick car accident history before opting for Tasjeel’s detailed report.

Tips to Avoid Scams When Buying a Used Car in the UAE

1. Verify VIN Consistency: Check the VIN on the car (dashboard, door, hood) against the Mulkiya. Mismatches indicate tampering or fraud.
2. Inspect for Tampering: Look for scratched, altered, or replaced VIN plates, a sign of theft or cloning.
3. Request Seller’s Mulkiya: If the seller refuses to share the VIN, walk away—it’s a red flag.
4. Use Free Tools First: Start with EVG or MOI to avoid unnecessary costs.
5. Get a Professional Inspection: Pair VIN checks with a mechanical inspection at Tasjeel or trusted garages like Al-Futtaim Automall.
6. Check Imported Cars: Use CarReport or CarFax for vehicles from the US, Japan, or Europe to uncover auction or flood damage history.
7. Avoid Flood-Damaged Cars: Post-2024 UAE floods, check for water damage signs (musty odors, rust, water stains).
8. Negotiate Based on History: Use accident or fine reports to lower the price.

FAQs 

How do I check a car’s chassis number in the UAE for free?

Use free platforms like Emirates Vehicle Gate (EVG), the Ministry of Interior (MOI), or Abu Dhabi Police. Enter the VIN on their websites to view accident and theft history.

Can I check a Dubai-registered car’s history with EVG?

No, EVG excludes Dubai-registered vehicles. Use RTA’s Technical Vehicle Status Certificate (AED 120) or Dubai Police helpline (free).

What if the VIN doesn’t match the Mulkiya?

A mismatch suggests tampering, possibly due to accidents, theft, or fraud. Avoid the vehicle and report to authorities if suspicious.

How much does a chassis number check cost at Tasjeel?

Tasjeel charges approximately AED 475 for a comprehensive report, including accidents, mileage, and fines.

Can I check an imported car’s history in the UAE?

Yes, use private services like CarReport (AED 99) or CarFax (AED 119.77) for imported vehicles from the US, Japan, or Europe.