VIN Decoder
Decode vehicle identification numbers to reveal manufacturer, model year, country of origin, and verify authenticity with check digit validation.
Understanding VIN Format
World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI)
The first three characters identify the manufacturer and country of origin. The first character indicates the country (e.g., 1-5 for USA, J for Japan, W for Germany).
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Characters 4-8 describe the vehicle's attributes including model, body type, engine type, and restraint system. Each manufacturer uses these positions differently.
Check Digit
A calculated value used to verify the VIN's authenticity. It's computed using a complex algorithm based on the other characters in the VIN.
Model Year
Indicates the model year. Uses letters A-Y and numbers 1-9 (excluding I, O, Q, U, Z). The code cycles every 30 years (A=1980/2010, Y=2000/2030).
Plant Code
Identifies the factory where the vehicle was manufactured. Each manufacturer assigns their own plant codes.
Serial Number
The unique serial number for the specific vehicle. This sequence ensures each vehicle has a unique VIN.
Common Manufacturer Codes (WMI)
| WMI Code | Manufacturer | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1HG | Honda (USA) | USA |
| 1FA | Ford | USA |
| 1G1 | Chevrolet (USA) | USA |
| 2HG | Honda (Canada) | Canada |
| JHM | Honda | Japan |
| JT2 | Toyota | Japan |
| JN1 | Nissan | Japan |
| KMH | Hyundai | South Korea |
| KNA | Kia | South Korea |
| WAU | Audi | Germany |
| WBA | BMW | Germany |
| WDB | Mercedes-Benz | Germany |
| WVW | Volkswagen | Germany |
| SAJ | Jaguar | UK |
| VF1 | Renault | France |
| ZFA | Fiat | Italy |
This table shows a selection of common manufacturer codes. Our decoder supports hundreds of manufacturers worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a VIN number?
A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every motor vehicle when it's manufactured. It contains information about the vehicle's manufacturer, model year, manufacturing plant, and serial number. Think of it as a vehicle's fingerprint.
How do I find my VIN?
You can find your VIN in several places: on the dashboard near the windshield (driver's side), on the driver's side door jamb sticker, on your vehicle registration or insurance documents, on the vehicle title, or in the engine bay. The most accessible location is usually the dashboard visible through the windshield.
What do the letters in a VIN mean?
The VIN is divided into three sections: WMI (World Manufacturer Identifier, characters 1-3) identifies the manufacturer and country of origin; VDS (Vehicle Descriptor Section, characters 4-9) describes the vehicle model, body style, and engine, including a check digit; VIS (Vehicle Identifier Section, characters 10-17) contains the model year, plant code, and unique serial number.
Why can't VINs contain I, O, or Q?
The letters I, O, and Q are excluded from VINs to avoid confusion with the numbers 1 and 0. This standardization makes VINs easier to read and significantly reduces errors when manually transcribing or entering them into systems.
What is the check digit in a VIN?
The check digit (position 9) is a calculated value based on all the other characters in the VIN using a complex weighted algorithm. It's used to verify that the VIN hasn't been altered or incorrectly transcribed. Our tool automatically validates this check digit to ensure VIN authenticity.
Can I decode a VIN for free?
Yes, this VIN decoder is completely free to use with no registration required. You can decode unlimited VINs to get manufacturer information, model year, country of origin, validation status, and detailed VIN breakdown. Your files never leave your computer for privacy.