How to Decode Buick VIN Numbers
All vehicles, no matter where they are made or what company they are made by have a vehicle identification number (VIN). These numbers, if deciphered properly, can tell you where the car originated, what company made it and what model it is, among other interesting facts. The Buick line of cars is no different from any other vehicle and sports its own, specific VIN.
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Instructions
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Locate the VIN on the Buick vehicle. Although there are several locations for the VIN, it is most often found in the lower driver's side corner of the front windshield. Write down the number on a piece of paper so you don't have to constantly go and check the VIN on the Buick
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Look at the first number. This is the manufacturing country ID. Because it is a Buick, the number is most likely "1" for the U.S.. The next number is actually a letter, and it is the letter "G" for General Motors
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Read the third number. This is the division number (such as Cadillac, GMC or Pontiac). The division number for a Buick is "4." The fourth identification number is another letter--the series letter. This is going to vary from model Buick, with "N" being a Skylark, "A" a Centry, "H" a Lesabre and "G" a Regal.
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Check the remaining numbers. The fifth number is the body code, while the sixth is the restraint system. The seventh spot represents the engine code, and the eighth number is the check digit. The ninth number represents the model year, and the tenth number is the plant code. Although there are many different plants where Buicks are made, the most popular are "M" for Lansing, "P" for Pontiac and "H" for Flint. The remaining series of numbers is the vehicle serial number.
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