VIN

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is an important number on a vehicle. This 17-character number can be seen on the left side of the dash from outside the vehicle through the windshield. Left and right sides are determined by sitting inside the vehicle facing forward. This number also appears on the vehicle certification label on the inside of the driver’s doorjamb and also on the vehicle’s title card. The VIN contains information including codes that identify the engine type, body type, model year (MY), assembly plant, production sequence number, and other information specific to that vehicle. In the following figure, the tenth character “D” identifies the model year as 2013, even though the manufacture date was February 2012. Keep the VIN handy, automotive parts stores may need it to find the correct replacement parts.