The VIN code (Vehicle Identification Number) of a car is a unique code consisting of 17 characters, which is used to identify the identity information of the vehicle worldwide. The composition of the VIN code follows the ISO 3779 and ISO 4030 international standards. The characters in different positions represent different meanings. The specific structure is as follows:
1st digit: Country or region of production
(e.g.: L=China, 1/4/5=United States, J=Japan, W=Germany, Z=Italy)
2nd-3rd digit: Manufacturer name
(e.g.: LSV=SAIC Volkswagen, LFV=FAW Volkswagen, WDG=Mercedes-Benz)
Digits 4-8: Vehicle feature information(including vehicle model, engine model, transmission type, body style, etc., customized by the manufacturer)
Digit 9: Check digit (verify the legitimacy of the VIN code through an algorithm to prevent forgery)
10th digit: Model year (letter or number, for example: L=2020, M=2021, N=2022, P=2023)
11th digit: Assembly plant code (customized by the manufacturer, different plant codes are different)
12th-17th digit: Production serial number (unique serial number of the vehicle, usually a number)
Vehicle identification: used for registration, insurance, maintenance, etc.
Anti-counterfeiting and traceability: prevent tampering through check digits and unique serial numbers.
Query history: accident, recall, and maintenance records (such as Carfax reports) can be queried through VIN.
The VIN code is usually located at:
The lower left corner of the front windshield (driver's side)
The vehicle nameplate (door frame/engine compartment)
The driving license and vehicle registration certificate.
Avoid confusing letters and numbers (such as O, I, Q generally do not appear in the VIN).