How to Check the 1957 Chevrolet VIN Number

Interpret a 1957 Chevy vehicle identification number.

The 1957 Chevrolet passenger car was available in three separate trim models. The trim levels were defined as the 150, the mid-range 210, and the upscale Bel Air. Chevrolet produced a limited number of station wagons called the "Nomad" which incorporated the Bel Air trim. The '57 Chevy is a popular restoration car for many enthusiasts today. You can derive limited information from the 11-character vehicle identification number (VIN).

Instructions

1. Locate the vehicle identification number on the driver's side door jam.

2. Examine the first character of the VIN. This is the engine type. The letter V is used for a V8 engine. Six cylinder engine configurations were not listed.

3. Interpret the second character. This is the vehicle model. The letter A is for a 150 model, B for a 210, C for a Bel Air and D for a delivery sedan.

4. Decode the third and forth characters of the VIN. This is the manufacturing year. The numbers 57 are used for a 1957 vehicle.

5. Interpret the fifth character. This indicates the final assembly plant. The letter A is for Atlanta, Georgia; B for Baltimore, Maryland; F for Flint, Michigan; J for Janesville, Wisconsin; K for Kansas City, Missouri; L for Los Angeles, California; N for Norwood, Ohio; O for Oakland, California; S for Saint Louis, Missouri; and T for Tarrytown, New York.

6. Decode the sixth through 11th characters. This is the production sequence of the vehicle. The numbers began at 100001 in 1957. This is also the serial number of the car.

References

• AK 57 Chevy: 1957 Chevrolet History
• Great Old Cars: 1955-1957 Chevy Vehicle Identification Numbers