Skip to content
INSTANT VIN CHECK
Start Your Free Search!
DISCLAIMER: The information on this webpage is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. InfoTracer is not a "consumer reporting agency" under the FCRA and does not provide "consumer reports". The information provided may not always be accurate and up to date as we do not verify or guarantee the accuracy or the amount of information provided through our website. For more details, see our Terms of Service.

Connecticut VIN Lookup

Table of Contents

Connecticut VIN Lookup

Connecticut, famed for its significant contributions to the insurance industry as the "Insurance Capital of the World", also emphasizes the importance of diligence in its used car market. When one is in the market for a used car in Connecticut, checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is essential. This lookup provides vital insights into the vehicle's past, uncovering any hidden issues that might lead to costly repairs down the line. Equipped with this information, buyers can make more informed decisions and potentially save themselves future headaches.

You can get a detailed vehicle history report from the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It offers these comprehensive reports, which are key to making informed decisions. A report provides detailed insights into the car's previous conditions and history.

VIN Verification

VIN Verification

Vin Verification in Connecticut is a vital process to ensure the legitimacy and history of a vehicle. Every vehicle has a unique Vehicle Identification Number, typically 17 characters long, consisting of numbers and letters. The VIN is the vehicle's fingerprint, which identifies its history and specifications.

When a vehicle is first manufactured, it is assigned a VIN by the manufacturer. The DMV then records this VIN at the time of the vehicle's initial registration. The VIN is most commonly found on the dashboard on the driver's side, visible through the windshield. Other places to look for the VIN include the vehicle registration or insurance card, the driver's side door jamb, where it may be stamped on a metal plate, the engine bay, and the vehicle's title.

In Connecticut, VIN verification is necessary for certain vehicles before they can be registered or titled. This process ensures that the VIN on the vehicle matches the VIN on the title or registration documents. The VIN verification process in Connecticut involves finding a licensed inspector authorized to conduct VIN verifications. Their role is to confirm that the VIN on the vehicle corresponds to the one on its title or registration documents.

The inspector then examines the VIN on various parts of the vehicle and compares it against the VIN listed on the documents. If the VINs match, the inspector validates this by signing and dating the VIN verification form. The final step is to submit the completed and signed VIN verification form to the Connecticut DMV, along with the vehicle's title or registration application.

Connecticut Car Ownership and Driving Information

Ownership Rate
91.5%
Registered Vehicles
2,867,554

High Car Ownership Rate

Connecticut has a car ownership rate of 91.5%. As of 2020, there are 2,867,554 registered vehicles in the state. Additionally, there are 9,040 registered electric vehicles as of the same year.

Miles Per Year
12,117

Average Annual Mileage

Drivers in Connecticut average 12,117 miles per year.

Popular Car
Honda CR-V

Popular Car Makes

The top-selling vehicles in Connecticut include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester. The Nissan Rogue is the most popular used car in the state.

Fatalities
368

Car Accident Fatality Rate

In 2022, Connecticut recorded an estimated 368 deaths in car crashes, marking the first time the state has averaged more than one traffic fatality per day.

Alcohol-related
80

Impaired Driving Fatalities

Of the fatalities in 2022, 80 of them involved individuals under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication, accounting for 22.7% of all car crash deaths.

Crashes
5,200

Distracted Driving

There were nearly 5,200 crashes attributed to distracted driving in Connecticut in 2022.

Connecticut DMV

The DMV provides a comprehensive suite of services catering to the various needs of drivers and vehicle owners across the state. From license renewals to vehicle registration, here are some of the services available:

Resources for Car Drivers/Owners

Resources for Car Drivers/Vehicle Owners in Connecticut

For car drivers and owners in Connecticut, a wealth of online resources is available to assist with various aspects of vehicle ownership and driving. These resources cover safety, regulations, emissions, and more.

  • Connecticut DMV Services: The Connecticut DMV offers various online services, including driver's license renewal, vehicle registration, and requesting driving records.
  • Emissions Testing Program: Information about emissions testing, including late fee payments and finding test centers, is available on the DMV Emissions Testing Program page. For more detailed information about emissions, visit the Connecticut Emissions Program website.
  • Transportation Safety: For safety information, including impaired driving and highway safety laws, the Connecticut Department of Transportation provides resources. They offer guidance on bicycle and pedestrian safety, motorcycle safety, safe routes to school, and work zone safety.
  • Vehicle Inspection Requirements: Connecticut has specific requirements and exemptions for vehicle inspections. To find out more about completing a CT vehicle inspection, visit DMV.ORG for a comprehensive guide.
  • Driver's Handbook and Manuals: For detailed driving manuals, including those for motorcycles and commercial vehicles, you can refer to the Connecticut DMV Driver Handbook available on DMV.ORG.
  • Defensive Driving & Driver's Education: For resources on defensive driving and driver's education, including practice tests and driving basics, check out DMV.com, which offers a range of educational materials.
  • DMV Mobile App: The Connecticut DMV mobile app offers quick access to sample tests and information on teen driving laws, simplifying the process of staying informed and prepared for driving in the state.
INSTANT VIN CHECK
Start Your Free Search!

Buying a Used Car in Connecticut

When buying a used car in Connecticut, it's important to be aware of several key rules and regulations:

Dealer's Rights

In Connecticut, dealers must inform you if a vehicle is sold as is. They must also allow you or a mechanic of your choice to inspect the car before purchase. The contract of sale must include any promises by the dealer to make repairs or correct conditions, along with all legally required express warranties for the car.

Used Car Warranties

In Connecticut, dealers must provide express warranties on used cars under certain conditions. If the car costs between $3,000 and $5,000 and is less than seven years old, dealers must cover all necessary repairs to keep the vehicle mechanically sound for at least 30 days or the first 1,500 miles. If the car costs more than $5,000 and is less than seven years old, the warranty extends to at least 60 days or 3,000 miles. Cars costing less than $3,000 and more than seven years old can be sold "As Is" without a warranty, provided there is a clear disclaimer.

Bill of Sale

Connecticut mandates a Bill of Sale for used car transactions. Sellers can use the CT Form H-31 or draft their own bill, provided it includes the same required information.

Odometer Disclosure

For cars less than 10 years old, a certified title must include an odometer disclosure. Cars that are 10 years old or older are exempt from this requirement.

Mechanical Inspection

After purchase, any repair costs fall to the new owner. To uncover any hidden issues, it is recommended that a professional mechanical inspection be conducted before buying the car.

Vehicle History Report

Some sellers may provide a vehicle history report. Review such a report to learn about the car's history.

Private Sales

The state's DMV does not regulate cars bought from private individuals. Issues with vehicles purchased in private sales typically become civil matters to be resolved through small claims or Superior Court.

Registration and License Plates

In Connecticut, the seller must remove the license platesafter the sale. As a buyer, you must register the vehicle in your name with the Connecticut DMV and obtain new plates and a title.

Reasons to Do a VIN Lookup in Connecticut

Reasons to Conduct a VIN Lookup in Connecticut

Conducting a VIN lookup in Connecticut is recommended for several reasons:

  • Vehicle Registration: If you're moving to Connecticut from another state or purchasing a vehicle from outside Connecticut, a VIN verification is required for state vehicle registration.
  • Theft and Fraud Prevention: A VIN lookup helps ensure that the vehicle is not currently reported as stolen or wanted.
  • Accident and Damage History: Through a VIN lookup, you can access information about the vehicle's history, including past accidents, flood damage, or theft.
  • Odometer Readings and Vehicle Specifications: VIN reports provide current and historical mileage readings and detailed vehicle specifications.
  • Compliance with State Regulations: Failing to perform a VIN lookup can result in being unable to register and operate the vehicle in Connecticut legally. It's a crucial step for complying with state regulations and ensuring the vehicle can be legally driven on public roads.

How to Lookup a VIN Number in Connecticut

To look up a VIN in Connecticut, you can follow these steps:

Option 1: The DMV Inspection Lane

To conduct a VIN verification in Connecticut, especially for vehicles that were previously registered in another state or if your vehicle's VIN is not clear, you need to visit a DMV inspection lane or a VIN verification test center. Here are the steps you can follow:

  • Prepare Your Vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is accessible for VIN verification, as the inspection involves checking the VIN physically on the vehicle.
  • Locate an Inspection Lane: The primary DMV inspection lane is located at 60 State Street, Wethersfield, CT 06109. You might need to bring your vehicle here, especially if the VIN is missing, altered, or otherwise undetectable.
  • Bring Required Documents: Typically, you need proof of ownership, such as a title or registration from your previous state, as well as identification.
  • Verification Fee: There is a fee of $10 payable at the VIN verification center but not the DMV lane.
  • Receive the Form. Once you get the verification form, you can register your vehicle. If you lose your VIN verification form 30 days or more after issuance, you'll need to have the vehicle verified again, and you'll pay $10 again.

Option 2: Online VIN Lookup Services

  • Choose a Service: Several websites offer free VIN lookups, including Infotracer. They compile data from various government sources to provide detailed reports.
  • Enter the VIN: Go to the website and input the 17-digit VIN in the provided search box.
  • Obtain a Report: After submitting the VIN, you'll receive a report that includes details like vehicle specifications, safety ratings, market value, title records, sales records, and possibly lien records, helping you make informed decisions if considering a vehicle purchase.

VIN Replacement in Connecticut

In Connecticut, if your vehicle's VIN is missing, altered, or otherwise undetectable, you need to go through a specific process to get a new VIN assigned. Here are the steps you need to follow:

  • Notification and Verification: If your vehicle falls into specific categories such as composite motor vehicles, trailers, salvage vehicles, or grey market vehicles, you will need to notify the Connecticut DMV by emailing them with 'VIN Verification' as the subject. After communication, you'll likely be directed to bring your vehicle to the DMV Inspection Lane for a thorough verification.
  • Required Documentation and Inspection: For vehicles needing a new VIN, you must provide certain documents and have the vehicle inspected at designated locations. The types of vehicles requiring this include homemade vehicles, trailers, dune buggies, kit cars, and more. This inspection ensures the vehicle conforms to safety standards and helps in determining if it qualifies for a new VIN.
  • Application Submission: Upon successful verification and inspection, you must fill out the necessary forms and submit them to the DMV for processing. This includes proof of ownership, identification, and any results or paperwork from the inspection.
  • DMV Processing and New VIN Assignment: After the DMV receives your application and all required documents, they will review everything to ensure compliance with state laws. If approved, the DMV will issue a new VIN for the vehicle. This new VIN is then officially recorded, and a new VIN plate may be manufactured and installed on your vehicle by authorized personnel.

What Would a Vehicle History Report Include in Connecticut?

A Vehicle History Report in Connecticut typically includes the following:

  • VIN: Unique 17-digit code identifying the vehicle.
  • Title Information: Details about the title, accidents, and liens.
  • Odometer Readings: Historical and current readings, as well as any discrepancies.
  • Accident History: Records of accidents or damage.
  • Service/Maintenance Records: Repair or replacement history.
  • Recall Information: Manufacturer recalls and their resolution.
  • Ownership History: Number of owners and registration states.
  • Vehicle Specification: Make, model, year, and options.
  • Vehicle Usage: If used as a rental or commercial vehicle.

How Can I Find the VIN by License Plate?

In Connecticut, finding a vehicle's VIN using its license plate is not directly possible through public resources due to privacy laws. However, you can use online VIN lookup services as well.

Vehicle Inspections in Connecticut

Vehicle Inspections in Connecticut

In Connecticut, VIN inspections are needed mainly when registering a vehicle or if the VIN has been altered. They're conducted by law enforcement officers or licensed vehicle dealers to ensure the VIN matches the car's documentation. Once verified, an inspection certificate is issued and submitted to the Connecticut DMV with the vehicle's registration and title. This process verifies vehicle authenticity and compliance with state requirements.

What does a Vehicle Inspection Report Include in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, the Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR) includes vital details such as the vehicle's make, model, year, and VIN, along with inspection results. The inspector checks the vehicle against state standards for safety systems like brakes, tires, lights, and horns, as well as emissions control systems. The VIR indicates whether the vehicle has passed or failed. For vehicles that pass, the VIR includes a certificate for DMV submission. If the vehicle fails, the report specifies which areas need repair to meet state standards for registration.

INSTANT VIN CHECK
Start Your Free Search!