Understanding Vehicle Identification Numbers

What is a VIN?

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every motor vehicle manufactured for use on public roads since 1981. Think of it as your vehicle's DNA or fingerprint—no two vehicles in operation have the same VIN.

Each character in a VIN has a specific purpose, revealing information about the vehicle's manufacturer, type, model, production plant, and more. The standardized format allows for consistent vehicle identification across the global automotive industry.

Why VINs Matter

  • Verify vehicle history and ownership records
  • Identify stolen vehicles and parts
  • Track recalls and safety notifications
  • Determine vehicle specifications
  • Support insurance claims and registration
  • Confirm authentic parts compatibility
  • Prevent fraud in the used car market

VIN Structure Breakdown

Sample VIN: 1HD1KTC241D3AB567

1HD
World Manufacturer Identifier
1 = North America
H = Harley-Davidson
D = Motorcycle
1KTC24
Vehicle Descriptor Section
1KT = Model (Softail)
C = Engine type
2 = Further specifications
4 = Check digit
1D3AB567
Vehicle Identifier Section
1 = Model year (2001)
D = Assembly plant (York, PA)
3AB567 = Production number
1

World Manufacturer Identifier

Positions 1-31HD

Identifies the manufacturer's country, maker, and division

  • 1st digit: Geographic region (1-5: North America, 6-7: Oceania, 8-9: South America, etc.)
  • 2nd digit: Country within region (1: USA, 2: Canada, 3: Mexico, etc.)
  • 3rd digit: Manufacturer specific code
Examples: 1FA (Ford USA), JHM (Honda Japan), WVW (Volkswagen Germany)
2

Vehicle Descriptor Section

Positions 4-91KTC24

Describes vehicle attributes like model, body style, engine type

  • Positions 4-8: Vehicle features (varies by manufacturer)
  • Position 9: Check digit - mathematically calculated value used for validation
The check digit is calculated using a complex algorithm that helps detect errors in the VIN
3

Vehicle Identifier Section

Positions 10-171D3AB567

Includes model year, plant code, and production sequence number

  • Position 10: Model year
    A=2010, B=2011, C=2012... (excludes I, O, Q, U, Z)
  • Position 11: Assembly plant (assigned by manufacturer)
  • Positions 12-17: Sequential production number
The last 6 digits are often used by dealers and service centers to identify specific vehicles

VIN Tools

Try our VIN tools to put your knowledge into practice:

VIN Decoder •VIN Validator •Random VIN Generator
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