Using Automated VIN-Based Tracking

VIN-Based Automation allows ClearPath GPS to automatically track vehicles by VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), even when devices are frequently unplugged and moved between vehicles. This ensures that vehicle identity, history, and reporting remain accurate—without requiring manual reassignment or updates.

This article explains how VIN-Based Automation works and how to use search, history, and reports to validate device movement and vehicle data.

Before You Start

Before using VIN-Based Automation, confirm the following:

  • VIN-Based Automation is enabled for your account

  • Devices are properly installed

  • Vehicles are powered on, so devices can report data

How to Install a Device and Confirm VIN Assignment

When a device is installed and powered on, ClearPath GPS automatically detects and assigns the vehicle VIN.

  1. Plug the device into the vehicle.

  2. Turn the vehicle on so the device can begin reporting.

  3. Open ClearPath GPS and navigate to the Map.

  4. Use the search bar or locate the vehicle directly on the map by VIN.

Once reporting begins, the vehicle will appear in the system with the correct VIN-based identity.

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How to Confirm a Device Was Unplugged

You can verify when and where a device was disconnected using reports.

  1. Unplug the device from the vehicle.

  2. Navigate to Reports.

  3. Run the VIN Assignment Details Report.

  4. Look for a Power Disconnect event and confirm:

    • Date and time of the disconnect

    • Address (location of the disconnect)

    • Device serial number (ESN)

    • VIN associated at the time of the disconnect

This confirms the device was removed and documents its last known vehicle association.

How to Move a Device to a New Vehicle

When a device is moved, ClearPath GPS automatically detects the new VIN once the vehicle is powered on.

  1. Plug the device into the new vehicle.

  2. Turn the vehicle on so the device can detect and report the VIN.

  3. Open ClearPath GPS and navigate to the Map.

  4. Use the search bar or locate the vehicle by VIN.

  5. Open the Vehicle Panel and confirm:

    • VIN is correct

    • Make, Model, and Year have updated

No manual reassignment is required.

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How to View Vehicle History by VIN

VIN-Based Automation keeps vehicle history tied to the VIN, not the device.

  1. Use Global Search underneath the ClearPath logo in the application side panel.

  2. Search for and select a VIN.

  3. In the Vehicle Panel, select History.

  4. Choose a history view:

    • Most Recent Activity

    • Point in Time

    • Time Range

  5. Review the map trail and event data associated with that VIN.

This allows you to view accurate historical activity even if devices were moved.

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How to Run Reports Using VIN

Reports Including VIN Support

The following reports support VIN-based tracking:

  • Virtual Timecard

  • Daily Log

  • Ignition Detail

  • Event Details

  • Event Details ProPack

  • Event Details OBD

  • Geozone

Running Reports by VIN (Where Supported)

  1. Open Reports and select a supported report.

  2. In the report settings, enter or select a VIN (if available for that report).

  3. Run the report.

Viewing VIN in Reports

  • A VIN column will appear in the report table.

  • The VIN will also be included in exported files.

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Additional Resources

Please refer to the Automated VIN-Based Tracking Frequently Asked Questions article for additional information.

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