Autka includes a standalone VIN decoder that lets you verify a US vehicle's identity before committing to a purchase or import. Enter any valid 17-character VIN and the app performs a lookup against the official NHTSA vPIC API, returning structured vehicle data such as make, model, year, and drivetrain details. This is separate from the catalogue search: you can decode a VIN even if the vehicle is not listed in Autka.
How VIN decoding works#
Open the VIN decoder
Navigate to the VIN decoder screen from the app menu or toolbar.
Enter the VIN
Type the full 17-character Vehicle Identification Number. Autka normalizes input locally and rejects letters I, O, and Q before sending any request, because these characters are invalid in a standard VIN.
Trigger the lookup
Tap Decode to submit the VIN. Requests are only sent when you explicitly confirm, not while you are typing.
Review the result
The app displays decoded fields returned by NHTSA, including make, model, model year, fuel type, and engine information. NHTSA decoder warnings are shown alongside any partial result.
Understanding the results#
The decoder returns a VinDecodeResult object containing fields provided by the NHTSA vPIC DecodeVinValues endpoint. A missing field means NHTSA does not have that data for the submitted VIN, not that the vehicle lacks that feature.
Decoded VIN data is not persisted as history. Each lookup is independent and session-only.
Validation rules#
- The VIN must be exactly 17 characters.
- Letters I, O, and Q are rejected before the request is sent.
- Autka never fires requests while you are typing; only an explicit user action triggers the lookup.
Integration with import estimates#
After decoding a VIN, you can cross-check the returned make, model, and drivetrain against a listing or use the information to feed the standalone Import Calculator. This helps ensure your excise and duty estimates use the correct vehicle specifications.
NHTSA vPIC data reflects what manufacturers report to the US government. It is authoritative for the US market, but always verify final specifications with the seller before purchase.