VIN Decoder

Enter a 17-character Vehicle Identification Number

0 / 17

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
Pos. 1–3 · WMI
Pos. 4–8 · VDS
Pos. 9 · Check digit
Pos. 10–17 · VIS
VIN

What is a VIN number?

A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle by the manufacturer in accordance with international standards. This identifier serves as a vehicle's digital passport and, unlike licence plates, remains permanent throughout the vehicle's entire service life. Decoding a VIN instantly provides accurate data on key vehicle characteristics: year of manufacture, make, model, engine type and trim level. Our VIN Decoder uses this code to provide information critical for correctly assessing the market value of a vehicle before purchasing on the secondary market.

Where to find your VIN

Since 1968, the US government has required that the VIN be readily accessible for inspection. You will most commonly find the 17-character code in these locations:

  • 🚗On the dashboard plate on the driver's side, visible through the windshield.
  • 🚪On the sticker in the driver's door jamb (safety compliance certification).
  • 📄In the vehicle title, registration certificate, or insurance policy.
  • 🔧On older models produced before 1981, the code may be engraved directly on the frame or engine.

VIN Code Structure

All VINs for vehicles produced since 1981 use a standardised 17-character format divided into three main sections:

1 – 3WMI
4 – 9VDS
9CD
10 – 17VIS

WMI (World Manufacturer Identifier) – Characters 1–3

Identifies the geographic region, country, and specific vehicle manufacturer.

VDS (Vehicle Descriptor Section) – Characters 4–9

Describes key vehicle characteristics: model, body type, engine type and series.

VIS (Vehicle Identifier Section) – Characters 10–17

Contains the unique identifier of the specific vehicle, including model year and serial number.

Obtaining the full vehicle options may require additional in-depth analysis of manufacturer data.

Detailed Breakdown of Key Positions

9

Position 9 – Check digit

Used to confirm that the VIN is genuine and has not been falsified. Calculated using the ISO 3779 standard formula.

10

Position 10 – Model year

Indicates the vehicle's model year using a cyclical code of letters and digits (I, O, Q, U, Z excluded).

11

Position 11 – Plant code

Set by the manufacturer to indicate the specific assembly plant.

12–17

Characters 12–17 – Serial number

The unique sequential number showing the vehicle's production order.

How to check vehicle specifications for free?

Enter your vehicle's VIN to instantly get the manufacturer's specification for free — a quick way to identify key vehicle characteristics.

For a complete specification listing all options and feature codes, our paid Full Cars Option Codes report provides exhaustive factory-fitted equipment information.

⚡

100%

Fast VIN check

✉️

1 hour

Report by email

✅

99%

Data accuracy

🏷️

$1.99

Vehicle options from