What is a Vehicle Identification Number – VIN?
A Vehicle Identification Number or VIN is a unique method of identifying a particular vehicle manufactured in the USA and many other countries. Each sequence includes 17 digits that correspond to specific information about the car. VINs can be used to track problems, trace ownership, and deter vehicle theft.
Here is an example of a typical VIN: 1G1DP12PXT990017
Every Number and Letter in the Sequence Will Tell You a Little Something About Your Car, Truck, or Motorcycle.
Vehicle Identification Number Explained By Number
1 – Country the vehicle was manufactured in. For example, the USA, Mexico, Canada, Japan, etc.
2 – Motor Company or Manufacturer. For instance, Ford, GM, Lincoln, Honda, Hyundai
3 – Car Make or Vehicle Type (Truck or Motorcycle). Mustang, Impala, Town & Country, Prius, Corolla, etc.
4 – 5 Carline Code/Series. Distinguishes the different model types and trim packages.
Examples: Impala LS, Impala SS, Impala LTZ
6 – Body Style – Two-door coupe, Four-door sedan, four-door station wagon
7 – Restraint Codes – Include information about seat belts, airbags, occupant sensors, etc.
8 – Engine Type – Number of cylinders, Engine Displacement, Fuel System
9 – Check digit – Complex method to verify correct Model Year
10 – Model Year – Examples, A=1980 K=2009 H=2017 P=1993
11- Assembly Plant – Where the vehicle was actually assembled.
12-17 Production Sequence – Number that identifies a specific vehicle.
No two vehicles built within 30 years of each other will have the same VIN. The Motor Vehicle Records database tracks information using the VIN, such as when the car was last inspected when it changed ownership, and if it was involved in a serious crash, rollover, or flood. The VIN can also be used to check if your vehicle has been included in an auto manufacturer’s recall.