How to Decode a VIN
The VIN number or Vehicle Identification Number on any car or truck is unique to the vehicle, much like a serial number to any other manufactured product. The coded information the unique 17 digit VIN assigns to each vehicle offers certain manufacturing details of the vehicle. It's not hard to decipher to VIN number of the vehicle and it can be useful when trying to find out information about the vehicle or when trying to purchase parts for it later. VIN numbers can also be researched to find out vehicle history and can help you decide whether to purchase the vehicle or not.
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Instructions
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1
Read the first digit of the VIN. This digit informs us of what country the vehicle was manufactured in. For example, a number 1 would indicate the vehicle was manufactured in the United States. A number 2 would indicate it was manufactured in Canada.
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2
Identify who the manufacturer of the vehicle is by the second digit of the VIN. For example, Ford, Dodge, Honda, Chevy or Toyota.
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3
Determine the make or manufacturing type of the vehicle by the third digit of the VIN.
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4
Read digits four through eight of the VIN in sequence to identify the characteristics of the vehicle. For example the model, the color, the body style, the engine size and type.
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Count over to the ninth digit of the VIN. This is called "the check digit." It is unique to all the other numbers in sequence and if the VIN has been tampered with, this digit will assist in identifying any fraudulent activity of the VIN number in sequence.
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Determine the year the vehicle was manufactured by the tenth digit of the VIN.
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7
Learn what plant the vehicle was assembled in by finding the eleventh digit of the VIN.
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8
Determine the last six digits of the VIN (12-17). They indicate the point in sequence this vehicle rolled off the assembly line at the manufacturer, starting with the first car of each year being 000001.
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