Vehicle Identification Number Decoding Chart
Vehicle Identification Number Decoding Chart
13 Digit Vin Number Search
If you're like most people, you probably think a vehicle identification number (VIN) is just a series of random characters. Actually, each character in this highly structured code has its own meaning. In fact, deciphering these codes is a hobby for some car enthusiasts, including collectors who want to own one of the first or last cars to come off an assembly line. When you're considering purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, it's always a good idea to obtain a or VIN check. Knowing how to read the VIN could help you make an informed decision before you buy. Decoding a Sample VINThe infographic below provides a simplified look at a sample VIN. Keep in mind that vehicles manufactured before 1981 might have fewer characters than today's standard VIN of 17 characters Model Year & Country Codes Model Year Character Codes As shown above, the 10th character of the VIN indicates its model year.