How to Decode a VIN

‌Many transactions are made via the VIN. Dealerships, insurance companies, parts suppliers, authorities, and potential buyers all use a VIN. This is because it brings up the information needed to identify the vehicle for necessary identification. It is usually used as the base information to evaluate a car or truck too although CARFAX and Autocheck will also have information related to the VIN of each vehicle for necessary security measures/ scheme. VIN’s can be stored within electronic devices within newer cars and trucks for security reasons.

‌How to find your vehicle’s VIN

The easiest place to find a vehicle identification number is on the outside bottom of the windshield on the driver’s side, If you carefully look to the very bottom of the windshield, you will find it conspicuously displayed. You will also find a sticker on the side of the driver’s door, or on the inside of the driver’s side pillar where it is displayed.

‌How to decode a VIN?

WMI (World Manufacturer Identifier).

 The first digit of the VIN is the country of origin or final processing plant. The numbers vary. Note the following:

• numbers, 1, 4, and 5 represent the U.S.

• number 2 represents Canada and

• the number 3 represents Mexico

• the digit that represents the manufacturer comes next for example, ‘C’ can be Chrysler and ‘B’ for BMW.

• The Society of Automotive Engineers is the one that assigns WMI’s to countries and manufacturers.

• The third digit combined with the first two may identify the type of vehicle, such as whether it is a truck, SUV, or car. e.g a Chevrolet truck VIN would start as ‘1GC’. 1 for the US as the country of origin, G for General Motors, and C for Truck.

• Digits 4 through 8 represent the vehicle descriptor section. It represents information This such as model type, restraint types, body type, engine, and transmission.

• Digit 9 is a check digit which is like security It is a code number/letter the manufacturer generates to verify the authenticity of the whole number.

• Digits 10 through 17 are the Vehicle Identifier Section.

• The 11th digit is the manufacturer’s plant code. Vehicle manufacturers all have their unique codes for which plant the cars are built.

• Digits 12 through 17 digits represent the production number.

• The letters I, O, and Q are not used.

‌Following through these steps explained below will help you identify your vehicle’s VIN without any hassle or stress. It's easy and sequential to follow.