Decode Your Vehicle’s Birth Year Using VIN

Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the key to unlocking important details about your car, including its year of manufacture. This guide will show you how to decode your vehicle’s birth year quickly and easily.

What is a VIN?

A VIN is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle. It contains vital information such as the manufacturer, model, and production year. The chassis number, often used interchangeably with VIN, is typically stamped on the vehicle’s frame.

Where to Find It

You can locate your VIN or chassis number in these common places:

• On the dashboard (driver’s side, visible through the windshield)
• On the driver’s door frame
• In the engine bay
• On registration or insurance documents

How to Decode the Year

The 10th character of the VIN reveals the year of manufacture. Match this character to the chart below:

Character    –    Year

A                        1980
B                        1981
C                        1982
D                        1983
E                         1984
F                         1985
G                        1986
H                        1987
J                         1988
K                        1989
L                         1990
M                       1991
N                        1992
P                         1993
R                         1994
S                          1995
T                          1996
V                          1997
W                        1998
X                          1999
Y                           2000
1                           2001
2                           2002
3                           2003
4                           2004
5                           2005
6                           2006
7                           2007
8                           2008
9                           2009

For vehicles manufactured after 2009, the sequence repeats starting with A for 2010, B for 2011, and so on.
For example, if the VIN is 1HGCM82633A123456, the 10th character is 3, which corresponds to 2003.

Why It Matters

Knowing your vehicle’s manufacturer year is essential for:

• Ensuring accurate registration and licensing
• Finding the right parts for maintenance and repairs
• Determining resale value
• Staying updated on safety recalls

Conclusion

Decoding your vehicle’s year of manufacture using its VIN or chassis number is simple and invaluable. Locate the 10th character of your VIN, match it to the year, and gain insights into your car’s history. Share this quick guide with others and make informed decisions about your vehicle!

Feel free to stop in and take a look at our Vehicle History Report Autovin at an affordable price. Send an email to info@autovin.com.ng or call +234(0) 915 1858 628.