What Each Digit in a VIN Number Means: Complete Breakdown

•7 min read

Your vehicle's VIN number is more than just a random string of characters. Each digit and letter in this 17-character code tells a specific story about your vehicle's identity. Let's break down what each position means and how to interpret them.

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The VIN Structure: A 17-Character Story

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is divided into three main sections, each revealing different aspects of your vehicle's identity:

  • World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI): Characters 1-3
  • Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS): Characters 4-9
  • Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS): Characters 10-17

Breaking Down Each Position

Characters 1-3: World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI)

Position 1: Country of Origin

The first character identifies the country where the vehicle was manufactured. For example:

  • 1, 4, 5 = United States
  • 2 = Canada
  • 3 = Mexico
  • J = Japan
  • K = Korea
  • L = China
  • V = France
  • W = Germany
  • Z = Italy

Position 2: Manufacturer

The second character identifies the specific manufacturer. For example:

  • A = Audi
  • B = BMW
  • F = Ford
  • G = General Motors
  • H = Honda
  • T = Toyota

Position 3: Vehicle Type

The third character identifies the vehicle type or manufacturing division. This varies by manufacturer but typically indicates:

  • Car, truck, or SUV
  • Specific brand within a manufacturer
  • Vehicle platform or series

Characters 4-9: Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)

Positions 4-8: Vehicle Attributes

These positions provide specific details about the vehicle's features:

  • Body style
  • Engine type and size
  • Transmission type
  • Restraint system
  • Model series

Position 9: Check Digit

This is a mathematical check digit used to verify the VIN's validity. It's calculated using a specific formula that helps detect errors in VIN transcription.

Characters 10-17: Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS)

Position 10: Model Year

This character indicates the model year of the vehicle. The system uses a 30-year cycle, excluding letters I, O, and Q to avoid confusion with numbers:

  • 1-9 = 2001-2009
  • A-Y = 2010-2030 (excluding I, O, Q)

Position 11: Assembly Plant

This character identifies the specific plant where the vehicle was assembled. Each manufacturer assigns their own codes to their plants.

Positions 12-17: Production Number

These final six characters form the vehicle's unique serial number. This is a sequential number assigned by the manufacturer to identify the specific vehicle.

Real-World Example

Let's break down a sample VIN: 1HGCM82633A123456

  • 1HG = Honda (USA)
  • CM8263 = Accord, 4-door sedan, V6 engine
  • 3 = Check digit
  • 3 = 2003 model year
  • A = Marysville, Ohio assembly plant
  • 123456 = Production sequence number

Related Tools and Resources

Why Understanding Your VIN Matters

Knowing how to read your VIN number is valuable for several reasons:

  • Verify vehicle specifications when buying used
  • Order correct parts for repairs and maintenance
  • Check for recalls and safety issues
  • Understand your vehicle's history and origin
  • Prevent fraud and verify vehicle authenticity

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