VIN mismatch, am I screwed?

[Wick3dMrB]

Hopefully, this is in the correct area, but as the title suggests. I purchased a 2000 TJ 4.0 with ~78k miles last July. The VIN on the dash and hood matches the title, but that's it. Every VIN plate or location has been removed. The VIN decodes as being yellow, but other than the hood, windshield frame, and exterior, everywhere else is green (behind the dash, Engine bay, etc..) I found the last 8 VIN on both the driver and passenger fender arch in the engine bay, and they do not match the title. The engine was swapped because it began to knock during the test drive (the dealer replaced it prior to purchase), so I know Vin on the engine won't match. Everything underneath has been rhino-lined black, but I recently noticed it covers up rust.

Is there a way I can verify the vehicle with just the last 8 VIN? What are my options? Am I screwed?


TIA

 

[lowell66dart]

You don’t have a problem but the dealer sure does.

 

[Blue Clearwater]

Probably depends on your state laws and the individual DMV. Where I live, the only VIN they look at is the one on the dash under the windshield.

 

[Chris]

Depends on what you're trying to do with it.

If you intend to sell it, then yeah, you're probably screwed.

If it requires a VIN inspection at your local DMV, then possibly.

If you're just going to drive it and it's already registered, then there's nothing to worry about at all.

Lastly, if the dealer sold it to you this way you have a potential lawsuit (which you will win) on your hands. Bring it back to them and tell them if they don't fix the situation you're going to sue them.

You'll win that lawsuit easily.

 

[Gilaguy23]

Id call the DMV investigations dept to start. There is so many scumbag hackjob dealers it sounds like you may have bought from one of them. Sucks its been so many months since the purchase as that dealer may be long gone by now.

 

[flyinfish]

You might find a vin number on a sticker at bottom of the doors.

 

[tnjeepguy]

https://www.txdmv.gov/motorists/vin-assignment-reassignment-process

In Texas, it is a felony to knowingly alter, tamper with, or remove a vehicle's identification number, or VIN. However, the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) can reassign a VIN if the original manufacturer's number has been altered, removed, or obliterated. To do so, the owner must:

• Obtain a completed Law Enforcement Identification Number Inspection (Form VTR-68-A) from an authorized inspector
• Provide acceptable evidence of ownership
• Submit both documents to a TxDMV Regional Service Center (RSC)

If a vehicle was never assigned a permanent VIN, or if law enforcement can't determine the original manufacturer's number, the TxDMV can assign a new VIN.


When selling a car in Texas, it's important to ensure that all vehicle details, including the VIN, match the original title. It's also important to complete the title transfer within 30 days of the sale to avoid penalties. Sellers who don't properly transfer the vehicle into the buyer's name could be held responsible for any tickets, toll violations, or crimes committed with the vehicle.

 

[JustDandee]

I would do a car fax on the other Vin number. I.e was it it still showing stolen or theft recovered , insurance total, flood …inquiring minds want to know . If the value is there and title is clear of all hassles for reselling then all is well if not then yeah I will get with the selling dealer and say we have a problem

 

[jscheu]

It could simply be it was rebuild/repaired using used parts. Different colors, different body parts with the little vin label, isn't always a legal issue. Should the seller have disclosed it, yes. But they may not have known.
What's the problem? Can't register it? Or is does it just bother you? Have you spoken with the seller?

 

[tnjeepguy]

It could simply be it was rebuild/repaired using used parts. Different colors, different body parts with the little vin label, isn't always a legal issue. Should the seller have disclosed it, yes. But they may not have known.
What's the problem? Can't register it? Or is does it just bother you? Have you spoken with the seller?

good points, if it were me: I would take it back to seller and get my money back. Keep looking plenty of good TJ's out there without these problems.
(keep in mind they are not going to give your money back, probably)

 

[Wick3dMrB]

I would do a car fax on the other Vin number. I.e was it it still showing stolen or theft recovered , insurance total, flood …inquiring minds want to know . If the value is there and title is clear of all hassles for reselling then all is well if not then yeah I will get with the selling dealer and say we have a problem

I can only make out the last 8 of the VIN i found. So I cannot run a CarFax

 

[Wick3dMrB]

It could simply be it was rebuild/repaired using used parts. Different colors, different body parts with the little vin label, isn't always a legal issue. Should the seller have disclosed it, yes. But they may not have known.
What's the problem? Can't register it? Or is does it just bother you? Have you spoken with the seller?

It was purchased under the pretense of being all original 2000 TJ with ~78k Miles. Blue Title. Its why I paid what I paid. I can understand some minor pieces. but the entire tub being a different color? Its registered, Just concerned it isnt what I was sold. Seller is difficult to get ahold of. Always was from the very start

 

[Wick3dMrB]

You might find a vin number on a sticker at bottom of the doors.

I'll take a look but I feel if the others have been removed then that one might be as well. Plus it is rhino lined

 

[Mitchrb1]

Pop the VIN you have on the Title in here. https://fcagroup.my.site.com/RAM/s/equipment-listing I am interested to see what color it states it is.

 

[AndyG]

It was purchased under the pretense of being all original 2000 TJ with ~78k Miles. Blue Title. Its why I paid what I paid. I can understand some minor pieces. but the entire tub being a different color? Its registered, Just concerned it isnt what I was sold. Seller is difficult to get ahold of. Always was from the very start

If you paid top dollar you need to stand your ground. You likely need an attorney.

 

[Wick3dMrB]

EDIT:
Also, the VIN states that the Jeep came with a soft top, but It is wired for a Hardtop and has rocker switches for defrost and wipers. However, upon pulling the dash, the wires have been cut.

Pop the VIN you have on the Title in here. https://fcagroup.my.site.com/RAM/s/equipment-listing I am interested to see what color it states it is.

States it is Solar Yellow. Which it is. on the outside. Inside however, behind dash, the floor( that wasn't sprayed with rhino liner) and engine bay, firewall all painted green

 

[Wick3dMrB]

The full tub and engine bay is this green color

VIN on Title & dash stare it's yellow

This is the 2nd VIN I found located on both fenders 1 under LP ac line 2nd under Washer Resevoir. I can only make out the last 8 but they do not match what's on the title

 

[tnjeepguy]

The maximum amount that can be sued for in Texas Small Claims Court is $20,000, exclusive of statutory interest and court costs. This amount includes attorney fees if applicable.

You may have to get an attny, but you need to get your money back. They clearly are at fault and are liable. Maybe.

 

[ColoJeep]

The 800 lb Gorilla in the room is what happens if the VIN # on the tub / other parts is reported stolen ?
You will have to return the Jeep to the rightful owner. The dealer needs to make you whole and undo the deal .
I hope this all works out well for you !

 

[AndyG]

Man I’m sorry but that is a mess.

I don’t even trust the mileage.

That is a frankenjeep.

You have got to get out of that situation as quickly and financially restored as possible.