VINs Explained

Vehicle Identification Numbers began in the 1950s as auto manufacturers started tracking the vehicles being made. The numbers and systems associated with each number originally varied by the manufacturer until the U.S. government began requiring vehicles to have a visible VIN number. The 17 digit number we have today became law in 1981.

Each number or letter in a VIN number explains a different element of a vehicle. Below is a high level break down of each digit and its meaning. 

The world maker identifier tells where in the world the vehicle was manufactured. An example of a code that is used is 1HP, meaning that vehicle is a US produced complete truck. The vehicle attributes digits identify the model, engine,  the GVWR, and brake system. The ninth digit, the check digit, is calculated from the other 16 positions. Digits 12-17 are based on the vehicle's assigned job number.