VIN Number Decoding Chart: Understand Every Character in Your VIN
Every car has a secret code called a VIN—short for Vehicle Identification Number. When you decode it, you unlock the car’s full backstory. You’ll find out where it was built, what parts it has, and if anything’s wrong with it.
Sounds tricky? Not at all. You don’t need to be a mechanic or spend hours with a chart. Just enter the VIN into our free tool.
Before you buy a used car, decode the VIN. It’s fast. It’s free. And it could help you avoid a bad deal or even a scam. Use our free VIN decoder to figure out your vehicle history.
Why Use a VIN Number Decoding Chart?
A VIN is a unique 17-character code made up of both letters and numbers. It works like a fingerprint for your car—no two vehicles have the same one. Each part of the code tells you something specific about the vehicle, like where it was made, who built it, and important details about the engine or body type.
Since 1981, all vehicles have followed the same VIN format, which makes it easier to track and identify them around the world.
If you’re wondering what all those letters and numbers mean, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. With a simple VIN number decoder or vehicle VIN decoder tool, you can quickly understand what your VIN is telling you—no special skills needed.
A VIN number decoding chart is a powerful tool for:
- Identifying a vehicle’s make, model, engine, and trim
- Checking if a car was manufactured in North America, Europe, or Asia
- Verifying the manufacturing plant and production year
- Ensuring the VIN hasn’t been tampered with or cloned
Fraud is becoming more common in the used car world. That’s why it’s important to learn how to decode VIN numbers. This simple skill can protect you from scams and help you spot problems before you buy.
Once you know how it works, you can do a quick VIN lookup online or double-check the number on your car’s paperwork. That way, you stay safe and make smarter choices when buying a vehicle.
The VIN Number Decoding Chart (Character by Character)
Use this handy chart to decode VIN number characters:
1. Characters 1-3: World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI)
These three characters identify the manufacturer and country of origin.
| Character | Description | Example |
| 1 | Country of Origin | 1 = USA, J = Japan, K = Korea |
| 2 | Manufacturer | H = Honda, T = Toyota, V = VW |
| 3 | Vehicle Type/Division | G = Passenger car, T = Truck |
2. Characters 4-8: Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
These characters reveal the vehicle’s attributes.
| Character | Description | Example |
| 4 | Model/Trim | A = Base, B = Sport, C = Touring |
| 5 | Body Style | 2 = 2-door, 4 = 4-door, W = Wagon |
| 6 | Engine Type | 1 = 1.5L, 2 = 2.0L Turbo, 3 = V6 |
| 7 | Restraint System | A = Front airbags, B = Front/Side |
| 8 | Transmission | M = Manual, A = Automatic, C = CVT |
3. Character 9: Check Digit
This digit verifies the integrity of the VIN.
| Character | Description |
| 0-9 or X | Mathematical check to prevent fake VINs |
4. Character 10: Model Year
| Character | Year |
| A | 2010 |
| B | 2011 |
| M | 2021 |
| N | 2022 |
| P | 2023 |
5. Character 11: Assembly Plant
| Character | Plant Location |
| A | Detroit, MI |
| B | Tokyo, Japan |
| C | Ontario, Canada |
6. Characters 12-17: Serial Number
| Characters | Description |
| 12-17 | Unique serial number for each vehicle |
Example of VIN Breakdown
- 1HG = USA, Honda, Passenger Car
- CM826 = Accord Sedan EX V6 Automatic
- 3 = Check Digit
- 3 = Model Year 2003
- A = Plant in Marysville, OH
- 004352 = Unique Serial Number
This is a perfect example of how a car VIN decoder can bring everything together.
How to Use This Chart Effectively
- Write down your VIN from your dashboard, driver-side door sticker, or vehicle title.
- Use this chart to analyze each character or section.
- Verify the details using a free VIN decoder or VIN number lookup tool.
💡Pro Tip: If you want to explore more features like specs, accident history, or recalls, go beyond the chart with the best free VIN decoder platforms online.
Common Questions About VIN Decoding
Can two vehicles have the same VIN?
No, each VIN is unique to one vehicle.
Is it safe to share my VIN?
Yes, especially for purposes like getting a vehicle history by VIN or VIN decoding.
What if my VIN has less than 17 characters?
It may be from a vehicle built before 1981, or the VIN may be entered incorrectly.
Master Your VIN
Your VIN is like your car’s DNA. By learning to decode VIN numbers and using the right tools—like a vehicle VIN decoder or free VIN decoder—you gain critical insights for buying, selling, or maintaining your vehicle.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast, a buyer, or just curious, having the ability to decode the VIN is a must-have skill.
Check Any VIN in Seconds. Use our free tool to verify a car’s background before you buy or sell.