What Does Your VIN Number Tell You?

Each vehicle has a unique 17 digit code - but what does it mean? Is there a pattern, or it is just random? We’ll solve the mystery for you!

#vinnumber #decoded #serialnumber

You know that big long code that is stamped on your vehicle? It’s called a VIN - a vehicle identification number. Calling it a VIN Number is redundant, but it’s commonly said anyhow.

At first glance, that 17 digit code can look quite random, but it’s anything but. There is a set protocol and meaning for each digit or letter place. That’s been the case in the U.S. since 1981 when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the United States standardized the 17-character format. Here’s something interesting - you’ll never find the letters O (o), I (i), and Q (q) in a legitimate VIN. This is to avoid confusion with numerals 0, 1, and 9. And, a VIN will only have capital letters and standard numbers.

OK, what does each letter or number mean? Depending on the position in the sequence, information such as manufacturer, year, make, model, engine size, and so forth are provided. You just gotta know the code, or use a decoder. Here are a couple that are offered online:

Here is how the numbers and letters are arranged. There are three sections: 1. World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI). 2. Description of the vehicle, and, 3. Vehicle identifier section.

World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is the first 3 digits. The first digit is the country where the vehicle as made, the second tells you the manufacturer, the third, in concert with the first two digits can tell you your vehicle type or the manufacturing division.

Now, let’s talk about the Vehicle Description Section - positions 4 through 9. The fourth through 8th digits tell details about the vehicle mode, such as engine, transmission, body and trim, etc.

Digit nine is the check digit to help detect expose VIN’s. It is generated by a formula originated by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

That leaves digit 10 through 17 - this is the Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS). The 10th position, since 1981, designates the vehicle year, while the 11th position, in North America is the plant location. The remaining numbers are usually simple unique sequential numbers as each vehicle was made.

If you really want to become a VIN wizard, check out this comprehensive treatise on all things VIN at:

And now you know. You’ll be the conversation hit at the next backyard BBQ.

JUST DO IT YOURSELF!

[FrantasticFacials]

Back in the day when I worked in the Ford Service department I could tell you all those things about the VIN. Very helpful information for people repairing your vehicle or grabbing spare parts at the salvage yard. Thanks for an informative video! 😁

[indridcold]

My vehicle was made in early 1995 as a 1996. It was a showroom concept. I still have it today and drive it nearly every day. My vehicle is a 1996 Wrangler, built in 1995. It has many differences from the production 1996 Jeep Wrangler. For instance, it is yellow, a colour not offered in 1996. It came with 30 inch tyres, Dana 44 front and back, and canyon rims. Some of these features did make it to the Jeep Wrangler later. But, they were not available in 1996, nor 1995.

[weirdtradercx]

Hi @Dirtfarmer. I really need your help. My 2013 velsoter turbo had a blown engine and I'm trying to source a new one. I saw this engine on ebay that says it's a match. However after reaching out to the supplier they said that the eight digit of my vin number was E and the one I saw is D. My question is, can this engine still fit, if no why and if yes what are the possible issues I will encounter. Thanks.

[MrMattchu]

I put my vin in both websites you suggested. And still couldn't find out what transmission is in my truck.

[leonjones]

So how to tell what number car you have? I jave a mustang it said only 5700 was made i want to seewhat number i have

[slimwantedman]

Good morning from Southeast South Dakota

[AnisKhan-fgbx]

Sir can you tell sir please how to know cars trims and cars options body style by vin

[vishalbhanot]

Nt in usa but here in india also it works the same way as u mentianed..same pattern...tell me is this particular car code p stands for 2016 model car..

[timgriffin]

This did not tell me how to tell what year it is !

[cfg]

Dirt farmer jay. You explained nothing. No examples or true break down. Thumbs 👎 Jay