How to Read Date Codes on GM Parts
The date codes and casting numbers on GM auto parts are mainly for identification and quality-control purposes. These numbers represent when the part was manufactured. The codes are found in different places depending on the part, and provide important information for auto repairs, especially when you need to replace the part on your GM vehicle. The date codes consist of a alphanumberic number and tell you the month, day and year of a particular component or part on the car.
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Instructions
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Locate the date code on the part that you want to replace. For example the date code on the cylinder head part of the engine is usually found next to the casting number underneath the valve cover.
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Read the first letter of the date code this letter represents the month that the part was made. The months run alphabetically starting with A for January and so on.
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Look at the second and third digits of the date code and you will get the day of the month that the part was made.
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Write down the final digit which is the year that the part was cast. Since the last digit is one number you have to know what years other parts and codes were taken from in order to get the year right. For example if the last digit is a 5 then you will have to look at the casting number of the engine in order to determine if it is 1995 or 2005. The engine VIN number inside of the pad on the passenger door will help determine the year of the car if you do not already know that information.
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Record the complete date code and other pertinent information like the engine VIN number and then order the replacement part that is needed to repair the car.
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