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The VIN, or vehicle identification number (the well-known serial number that can be found at the bottom of the windshield) is more than a random set of numbers. There is a lot of useful information in that number, and here is how you can read it.
All VINs consist of 6 parts. Here is how the information contained in the vehicle information number is broken down.
The first 3 numbers represent the make and model of the vehicle.
The numbers 4 to 8 represent the different features of the specific model.
The 9th number is a verification number which is determined by a complex mathematical formula. This number is related to the VIN’s other numbers and serves to make sure the VIN is not a fake.
The 10th digit represents the model year of the vehicle, which should not be confused with the year it was sold or delivered.
The 11th number is an internal number that indicates where the car was built.
The numbers 12 to 17 indicate the order in which the vehicle left the assembly line. This is truly the serial number.
Brand decoding
The first digit of the brand code will always mark the country where the vehicle was manufacturered. There are many country codes, but the most common are:
USA: 1, 4 or 5
Canada: 2
Mexico: 3
Japan: J
Korea: K
England: S
Germany: W
Italy: Z
Sweden: Y
Australia: 6
France: V
Brazil: 9
Looking at your code, you will know if you are driving an American car or a foreign car built in America.
When we add the following two digits (explained below) in the equation, we find the manufacturer. The complete three-digit code is called “manufacturer global identification,” which is much more accurate than putting just one letter.
Things get a bit more complicated when it comes to features, engines, and even safety accessories.
Even the model year is identified by a code. If the car was built between 2001 and 2009, the figure 0-8 will appear. If the car in question was assembled between 1980 and 2000, the code will be letters from A to Y, sequentially. For example, a car built in 1994 would have the code “R” and a 2000 car would use “Y”. From 2010, most manufacturers and vehicles are identified with the letter A.
As you can see, your VIN is full of useful information!
Thank you to Van Herpt Volvo for their help with this article.
