Tesla VIN Decoder

A Tesla VIN decoder is an online tool that helps you access key information about any Tesla vehicle using its unique 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Each VIN holds important data like the model, year, battery type, and factory-installed features.

It also connects to public records that reveal hidden issues like accident damage or title branding. In Canada, over 1 in 3 used vehicles have some form of branded title, odometer rollback, or undisclosed damage, making VIN decoding essential for Tesla buyers.

Before buying a Tesla, decoding its VIN helps ensure you know exactly what you're getting. It takes seconds but can save you from costly surprises. Here are six key reasons to decode a Tesla VIN:

We offer both a free VIN Decoder and a more detailed Paid VIN check. With the free VIN check, you can access the following information:

This is perfect for basic verification, especially if you're just starting to verify the car’s specs and features. However, the paid check takes things further by providing a full vehicle history report, which includes:

James found a great deal on a car that looked perfect — shiny, clean, and low mileage. But a quick vehicle history check revealed the following truth:

• 3 accident records
• 1 damage record
• 1 insurance loss record
• Salvage title
• Vehicle used as a lease

Outcome

These red flags showed that the car had been seriously damaged and written off by insurance. As a result, James avoided a risky buy that could have cost him thousands in repairs and legal issues.

Want even more detail? Our Tesla Window Sticker service provides a full breakdown of your Tesla’s original specs, factory options, software packages, safety ratings, and more. It’s perfect for resale, insurance, or simply knowing exactly what you own.

Here is what each character means

• 1st - 3rd Characters: The first three characters represent the country and manufacturer. Some of the characters include:
• 4th Character: This provides information about the vehicle model. Some of the characters include: Y = Model Y, and S -=Model S
• 5th Character: This represents the body type and steering wheel position of the Tesla.
• 6th Character: This represents the safety equipment installed, including seat belts, airbags, pedestrian protection etc
• 7th Character: This helps show if the Tesla is electric. For Teslas made before 2013, the 7th digit tells you the charging type and power. From 2014 and newer, it shows the battery type.
• 8th character: This represents the different motors, which can have up to 21 different values.
• 9th Character: The check digit is represented by the ninth character. It helps verify the authenticity and accuracy of the VIN. If the VIN has been altered or incorrectly issued, the check digit will not match.
• 10th Character: This indicates the model year and alternates between numbers and letters. For instance, A means 1980, 2010, B means 1981 or 2011, 1 means 200,1, and so on.
• 11th Character: This denotes the manufacturing plant. Some of the possible characters include: e.g,. 1 = California, Menlo Park, 3= United Kingdom, Hethel (Roadster)
• 12th to 17th Characters: The last six digits is the unique serial number that specifically identifies the individual vehicle. Although the final five digits serve solely as a unique identifier, the first digit of this serial number may carry additional meaning.

• Tesla launched in 2003 and released its first car—the Roadster—in 2008.
• Tesla is Canada’s top-selling EV brand, with the Model 3 leading in sales.
• More than 8,000 Teslas have been recalled in Canada over software and safety issues.
• Tesla models are over-the-air update capable, adding features long after purchase.
• Tesla vehicles retain strong resale value, especially models with FSD (Full Self-Driving) capability.