VEHICLE INDENTIFICATION SYSTEM AND VIN LOCATIONS
AMERICAN MOTORS
1954-1958 (RAMBLER) VIN die stamped into plate attached to right hand side of cowl under hood.
1959-1967 VIN Embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to top flat surface right hand front inner wheelhouse panel under hood, engine compartment. 1959 -VIN die stamped into plate.
1968-1977 VIN stamped into metal plate riveted to instrument panel left hand side, visible though windshield. (Attached with rosette rivets)
SAMPLE NUMBER: D-171501 / DC-12301 (1954-1958)
Series Identity symbol
171501 Sequential production number
Series Identity symbol
C Assembly Plant
12301 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: Z-155001 (1959-1964)
Z Series identity symbol
155001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: J104980 (1965)
J Series and Engine Symbol
104980 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: A6KS52B100001 (1966-1967)
A American Motors
6 Model year
K Assembly plant
S Transmission type
5 Body Style
2 Class of body
B Engine and Applicable series
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: A7A037C149009 (1968-1977)
A American Motors
7 Model year
A Transmission symbol
0 Series symbol
8 Body Style symbol
7 Class of body
C Engine Symbol
1 Assembly plant
490009 Sequential production number
AVANTI MOTOR CORPORATION
1963-1964 Die Stamped into plate fastened with drive nails to top of frame right hand side rail about 9inchs to rear of front cross member under hood.
1965-1968 Vin die stamped into stainless steel plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1969-1973 Vin die stamped into stainless steel (aluminum in 1970 only) plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1974-1977 Vin stamped into aluminum strip, molded to top left corner of instrument panel, visible though windshield.
SAMPLE NUMBER: R-4838 (1963-1964)
R Engine type
4838 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: RQ-B 2249
RQ Body Style
B Series
2249 Sequential production number
BUICK (All models 1954-1977)
1954-1960 VIN embossed on a plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1961-1964 VIN embossed on a plate welded to the left front door hinge pillar post facing, except 1964 Buick Riviera model only welded to top surface of cowl under left side and 1963 Buick Riviera model only, welded to cowl under hood right side.
NOTE: 1961 Buick Special - die stamped into left hand dash to frame brace under hood approx. 4" from front of dash. Commencing with vehicle number H1534407-H2508353, embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
NOTE: LeSabre, Invicta, Electra, & Electra 225 (1961), VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to top surface of cowl under hood. Commencing with LeSabre H1056787, 4H4019860, 4H5013746, 4H6014759, & 4H8012408; Electra 225 8H2012745, 8H3023909 - VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post.
1965-1967 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1968-1977 VIN embossed on a steel plate riveted to instrument panel upper surface at lower left corner of windshield, visible though windshield.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 4E1001001 (1954-1960)
4 Series Identify symbol
E Model year (A-54, B-55, C-56, D-57, E-58, F-59, G-60)
1 Assembly plant
001001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: AK1001001 (1961-1964)
A Series & Engine Type
K Model year (H-61, I-62, J-63, K-64)
1 Assembly plant
001001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 452695H100001 (1965-1971
4 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Buick
5269 Series and body style
5 Model year
H Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 4N39H3X101071 (1972-1977)
4 GMC manufacturers symbol for Buick
N Car line series symbol
39 Body type symbol
H Engine type symbol
2 Model year
X Assembly Plant
101071 Sequential production number
CADILLACS (ALL MODELS) 1954-1977
1954-1957 VIN stamped on flat machined boss cast in the upper right hand corner of the front face of the right hand block at right angles to the crankshaft, numbering to start from the bottom; as well as stamped into top flange of right hand frame side rail to the rear of the engine support bracket.
1958 Stamped on the top flange of the frame right had side member forward of the body bracket.
1959-1962 VIN stamped on the top flange of the frame left hand side member adjacent to the radiator support bracket.
1963-1964 VIN die stamped on the top of the front cross member at left hand side forward of the radiator.
1965-1967 VIN die stamped into top surface of frame right hand side rail forward of front coil suspension (may be obscured by rubber splash shield) except 1967 Eldorado VIN die stamped into top surface of frame left hand side rail to rear of front wheel suspension (may be obscured by rubber splash shield).
CAUTION: The number on the plastic strip fastened to the left hand door lock strike pillar post of the 1967 and previous year models may not necessarily show true VIN. This should not be relied upon to effect vehicle identification.
1968-1977 VIN stamped on steel plate riveted to cowl bar at lower left corner of windshield, visible though windshield. Also, VIN stamped on pad on rear upper portion of cylinder block behind intake manifold, and on left side of transmission case.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 546200000 (1954)
54 Model year
62 Series symbol
00000 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 556200000 (1955-1957)
55 Model year
62 Series symbol
000000 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: *59F000001* (1958-1964)
59 Model year
F Series Symbol
000001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: *N5000001* (1965-1967)
N Model Identity Symbol
5 Model year
000001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: HO109509 (1968-1970)
H Model Identity Symbol
0 Model year
000001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 693471Q400171 (1971)
6 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Cadillac
9347 Series and body style
1 Model year
Q Assembly plant
400171 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 6L67S2Q403590 (1972-1977)
6 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Cadillac
L Car line series symbol
67 Body type symbol
S Engine symbol
2 Model year
Q Assembly plant
403590 Sequential production number
SAMPLE ENGINE & TRANSMISSION NUMBER:
8100100 (1968-1970)
8 Model year
100100 Sequential production number
63Q509590 (1971-1977)
6 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Cadillac
3 Model year
Q Assembly plant
509590 Sequential production number
CHECKER MOTOR COMPANY (ALL MODELS 1965-1977)
1965-1968 VIN die stamped into embossed plate screwed to left hand forward face of firewall under hood.
1969 VIN on plate located on left side of firewall, above brake master cylinder. VIN is repeated on a second plate, located on upper left corner of dash visible though windshield.
1970-1977 VIN on plate located on upper left corner of dash visible though windshield.
SAMPLE NUMBER: A12-205-20075 (1965-1970)
A12 Model Number
205 Production order
20075 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER A11E-2134-01305 (1971-1977)
A11E Body Style (A11E, A12, A12E, A11E, A128E)
2134 Sequential production number
01305 Sequential chassis number
Sample Number:
1966 A12-205-20075
1967 A12-6000-43954
1968 A12-6000-49272
1969 A12-6000-90005
1970 A11-5986-01305
1971 A12E-2134-10001
1972 A12E-2134-20001
1973 A12E-2134-30001
1974 A12E-2134-40001
1975 A12E-2134-50001
1976 A12E-2134-60001
1977 A12E-2134-70001
Checker does not undergo a yearly model change; therefore, there is no model year symbol in the VIN. An annual serial number cut-off date is used to differentiate model years. (SEE ABOVE) The first digit of the sequential chassis number indicates year of manufacture.
CHEVROLET (ALL MODELS 1954-1977)
1954-1959 VIN embossed on stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post.
1960-1964 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
CHEVELLE-1964 & CHEVY II-1962-1964, VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to the left front door hinge pillar post facing.
CORVAIR- 1960-1964, VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to the right hand side hinge pillar cross brace under glove box, passenger side.
CORVETTE- 1960-1963, VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to top of steering column mast under hood in engine compartment.
CORVETTE- 1963-1964, VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to right hand side hinge pillar cross brace under glove box, passenger side.
GREENBRAIR-1964, VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1965-1967 CHEVELLE, CHEVROLET, CAMARO, & CHEVY II except vans, VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
CORVETTE-1967-1967, VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to right side dash pillar brace under glove box, passenger side.
CORVAIR- 1965-1967, VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to left side rail near battery in engine compartment.
CHEVROLET VAN- 1967-1968, VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted near bottom left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1965-1966 VAN, VIN is in same location.
GREENBRAIR-1965, (Discontinued in 1966) VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to left front door lock strike plate pillar post.
1968-1977 VIN stamped on a plate riveted to instrument panel, left side, visible thorough windshield.
CORVETTE 1968-1977, VIN stamped on a plate riveted to inner vertical surface of left windshield pillar post visible though windshield.
SAMPLE NUMBER: A59F100025 (1954-1959)
A Series Identity symbol
59 Model year
F Assembly plant
100025 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 45369H100025 (1960-1964)
4 Model year
5369 Series & Body style symbol
H Assembly plant
100025 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 164478U108957 (1965-1971)
1 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Chevrolet
6477 Series and Body style symbol
8 Model year (5-65, 6-66, 7-67, 8-68, 9-69 etc)
U Assembly plant
108957 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 1H57H5Z401067 (1972-1977)
1 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Chevrolet
H Car line series symbol
57 Body type symbol
H Engine type symbol
5 Model year
Z Assembly plant
401067 Sequential production number
Beginning with the 1968 models, Chevrolet began to put VIN derivatives on engines and transmissions.
SAMPLE NUMBER 136378K108622 (1968-1971) VIN
18K108622 Engine & transmission number
1 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Chevrolet
8 Model year
K Assembly plant (where car was assembled)
108622 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER 1H57H5Z401067 (1972-1977) VIN
15Z401067 Engine & transmission number
1 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Chevrolet
5 Model year
Z Assembly plant
401967 Sequential production number
CHRYSLER (All models 1954-1977)
1954-1958 VIN stamped on a plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing. Effective May1, 1958, the practice of placing significant motor numbers on Chrysler cars was discontinued. All numbers appearing on Chrysler motors are for engineering purposes and are not reliable for identification or registration purposes.
1959 VIN stamped into a plate attached to the cowl under the hood. Alternate location on some 1959 cars, VIN is stamped into a plate attached to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1960-1965 VIN stamped and embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1966-1967 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1968-1977 VIN embossed into a plate located on top of instrument panel, left side visible though windshield.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 70141001 (1954)
In 1954 the VIN consisted of a 7 or 8 digit Sequential production number assigned by model at each plant.
SAMPLE NUMBER: W56-1001 (1955-1957) (Detroit)
W Series symbol
56 Model year
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: W56L-1001 (1955-1957) (Los Angeles)
W Series symbol
56 Model year
L Assembly plant (Los Angeles)
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: LC1-1001 (1958) (Detroit)
L Model year (L-58)
C Symbol for Chrysler
1 Series Symbol
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: LC1L-1001 (1958) (Los Angeles)
L Model year (L-58)
C Symbol for Chrysler
1 Series Symbol
L Assembly Plant (Los Angeles)
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: M511100001 (1959)
M Model year (M-59)
5 Symbol for Chrysler
1 Series Symbol
1 Assembly plant (1-Detroit, 4- Los Angeles)
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 8143100001 (1960-1964)
8 Symbol for Chrysler
1 Series symbol
4 Model year (0-60, 1-61, 2-62, 3-63, 4-64)
3 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: C153100001 (1965)
C Symbol for Chrysler
1 Series Symbol
5 Model year
3 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: CL43G63100001 (1966-1967)
C Symbol for Chrysler
L Series Symbol
43 Body style
G Engine type symbol
6 Model year
3 Assembly Plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: CS41T5C101649 (1968-1977)
C Car make symbol (C-Chrysler, Y-Chrysler Luxury)
S Décor symbol
41 Body Style symbol
T Engine type symbol
5 Model year
C Assembly plant symbol
101649 Sequential production number
DESOTO (All models 1954-1960)
1954-1958 VIN embossed on a plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1959 VIN embossed on a plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing. Alternate location on some 1959 cars VIN stamped into plate welded to cowl under hood.
1960-1961 First two (2) digits of VIN die stamped and remainder embossed on a steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
NOTE; Desoto production discontinued in 1961
SAMPLE NUMBER: 55332001 (1954-1957)
VIN consisted of a 7 or 8 digit sequential number assigned my model at each plant.
SAMPLE NUMBER: LS1-1001 (1958) (Detroit)
L Model year (L-58)
S Symbol for Desoto Division
1 Series Symbol
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: LS1L-1001 (1958) (Los Angeles)
L Model year (L-58)
S Symbol for Desoto Division
1 Series Symbol
L Assembly Plant (Los Angeles)
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: M431 10001 (1959)
M Model year (M-59)
4 Symbol for Desoto Division
3 Series symbol
1 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 7203100001 (1960)
7 Symbol for Desoto Division
2 Series symbol
0 Model year (0-61)
3 Assembly plant
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 6113100001 (1961)
6 Symbol for Desoto division
1 Series symbol
1 Model year (1-61)
3 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
DODGE (ALL MODELS 1954-1977)
1954-1958 VIN die stamped on a plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1959 VIN embossed on a plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing. Alternate location on some 1959 cars, VIN die stamped into plate welded to cowl under hood.
1960-1965 VIN first two (2) characters die stamped and remaining eight embossed on a plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1966-1967 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to lfet front door hinge pillar post facing.
DODGE A-100 vans and Sportsman Wagons - Truck type VIN plate riveted to top surface of left front wheelhouse, visible when left front door is open.
1968-1977 VIN embossed on a plate located on top of instrument panel, left side, visible though windshield attached with rosette rivets.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 32152901 (1954-1957)
VIN consists of a series identity symbol assigned by assembly plant, followed by a Sequential production number, likewise assigned for each series to each assembly plant.
SAMPLE NUMBER: LD1N-1001 (1958)
L Model year (L-58)
D Symbol for Dodge division
1 Series symbol
N Assembly plant
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: M315100001 (1959)
M Model year (M-59)
3 Symbol for Dodge division
1 Series symbol
5 Assembly plant
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 4202100001 (1960-1961)
4 Car make & Engine code (eg. Dodge, Dart, Lancer)
2 Car make identity symbol
0 Model year (0-60, 1-61)
2 Assembly Plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 5425100001 (1962)
54 Series & Body type symbol
2 Model year (2-62)
5 Assembly Plant
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 4242100001 (1963-1965)
4 Car make series (Dodge, Monaco, Polara, Coronet)
2 Car model & series
4 Model year (3-63, 4-64, 5-65)
2 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: LP21A65100001 (1966-1967)
L Car make symbol (Dart-L, Cornet-W, Charger-X,
Dodge-D)
P Series symbol
21 Body Style symbol
A Engine type symbol
6 Model year (6-66, 7-67)
5 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: WL41G7A130151 (1968-1977)
W Car make symbol
L Series Symbol & décor
41 Body Style symbol
G Engine Type Symbol
7 Model year (8-68, 9-69, 0-70, 1-71, etc)
A Assembly plant
130151 Sequential production number
EDSEL (All models 1958-1960)
1958-1960 VIN die stamped into top of right hand frame side rail forward of firewall under hood in engine compartment.
SAMPLE NUMBER: *W8EG701005* (1958)
W Engine type symbol
8 Model year (8-58)
E Assembly plant
G Body type symbol
7 Edsel division designator
01005 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: *B9UH700001* (1959)
B Engine type symbol
9 Model year (9-59)
U Assembly plant
H Body type symbol
7 Edsel division designator
00001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: *0U13W700001* (1960)
0 Model year (0-60)
U Assembly plant
13 Body type symbol
W Engine type symbol
7 Edsel division designator
00001 Sequential production number
FORD (ALL MODELS 1954-1977)
1954-1967 Conventional Ford - 1954-1962.
VIN stamped into top of right hand side rail of frame forward of front suspension member.
1963-1967
VIN stamped into extension tab on tip of cowl right had side of car, firewall under hood.
Fairlane - 1962-1965
VIN die stamped into side of left front inner fender apron near top.
1966-1967
VIN die stamped into top surface of fender apron & radiator support at left hand side of car.
Falcon - 1960-1963
VIN die stamped into top surface of left hand brace extending from top of firewall to left front wheelhouse.
1964-1965
VIN die stamped into top of left front inner fender apron.
1966-1967
VIN die stamped into top surface of fender apron & radiator support at left hand side of car, under hood.
Mustang - 1965-1967
VIN die stamped into top of left front inner fender apron.
Bronco - 1966-1967
VIN die stamped into top surface of right hand frame side rail approximately 12" to rear of shock absorber tower under hood.
Thunderbird - 1955-1959
VIN die stamped into top of right hand side rail of frame forward of front suspension member.
1960
VIN die stamped into right front inner side above front spring.
1961-1966
VIN die stamped into top surface of front fender cross brace to the right of the hood lock plate.
1967-
VIN die stamped into extension tab of top of firewall and cowl right hand side of car under hood.
Falcon Bus & Club Wagons - 1963-1966
VIN die stamped into shielding brace right hand rear taillight inside vehicle body.
1967 -
VIN die stamped into top surface rear portion of transmission tunnel housing inside vehicle.
CAUTION The PATENT PLATE riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing may not necessarily show true VIN. This place should not be used to effect identification.
1968 VIN stamped on Aluminum tab riveted to instrument panel on the right hand side visible though windshield.
1969-1977 VIN stamped on stainless steel plate (1968 & 1969 on Aluminum) riveted to instrument panel on left side of dash visible though windshield.
CAUTION The PATENT PLATE riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing may not necessarily show true VIN. This place should not be used to effect identification.
SAMPLE NUMBER: *C8AG10001* (1954-1959)
C Engine type symbol
8 Model year (4-54, 5-55, 6-56, 7-57, 8-58, 9-59)
A Assembly plant
G Body type symbol
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: *6S62Y100001* (1960-1967)
6 Model year (0-60, 1-61, 2-62, 3-63, 4-64, etc)
S Assembly plant
62 Series and Body style
Y Engine type symbol
100001 Sequential production number
NOTE: The entire number is protected by inclusive asterisks (*) which are not part of the VIN. In later years FORD replaced the asterisks (*) with the script "f" for FORD, which also is NOT PART of the VIN.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 8W66Z100001 (1968-1969)
8 Model year (8-68, 9-69)
W Assembly plant
66 Series and body style
Z Engine type symbol
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: f3G73H100001f (1970-1977)
3 Model year (0-70, 1-71, 2-72, 3-73 etc)
G Assembly plant
73 Series and body style
H Engine type symbol
100001 Sequential production number
IMPERIAL (All models 1954-1974)
1954-1965 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing. 1959 alternate location, plate attached to cowl under hood.
1966-1967 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1968-1974 VIN embossed on a plate located on top of the instrument panel left side, visible though the windshield.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 77750001 (1954) seven digit Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: C56-1001 (1955-1957)
C Symbol for Imperial division
56 Model year
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: LY1-1001 (1958)
L Model year (L-58)
Y Symbol for Imperial division
1 Imperial series
1001 Sequential production number (can go up to 5 digits)
SAMPLE NUMBER: M657100001 (1959)
M Model year (M-59)
6 Symbol for Imperial division
5 Series identity symbol
7 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 9243199991 (1960-1964)
9 Symbol for Imperial division
2 Series Identity Symbol
4 Model year (0-60, 1-61, 2-62, 3-64, 4-64)
3 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: Y253100001 (1965)
Y Symbol for Imperial division
2 Series symbol
5 Model year (5-65)
3 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: YM23J63100001 (1966-1967)
Y Symbol for Imperial Division
M Series Symbol
23 Body Style
J Engine type symbol
6 Model year (6-66, 7-67)
3 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: YM43T2C104248 (1968-1974)
Y Symbol for Imperial division
M Series symbol
43 Body Style symbol
T Engine type symbol
2 Model year (8-68, 9-69, 0-70, 1-71, 2-73, etc)
C Assembly plant
104248 Sequential production number
INTERNATIONAL HARVESTER (Scout and Travelall 1973-1977)
1973-1977 Scout VIN on plate attached to right door hinge pillar post.
Travelall VIN on plate attached to left door
SAMPLE NUMBER: 3S86CGD10001* (1973-1977)
3 Model year
S Model Series (S-Scout, H-Travelall, Q-Travelall 4x4)
8 Model size symbol
B Cab or body W/ drive wheel symbol
6 Engine type symbol
C Year of Manufacture
G Assembly plant
D Assembly line or facility symbol
100001 Sequential production number
* End of VIN indicator
NOTE: If the VIN plat carries IH preceding the 13 digit VIN, disregard, this is for identification purposes only.
JEEP (All models 1964-1977)
1964-1972 Open bodied Jeeps
VIN stamped into plate attached to left hand side of firewall under hood. Alternate locations some 1964 models on right hand side.
Closed bodied Jeeps
VIN plate attached left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1073-1977 All models VIN stamped into a plate attached on the left hand side of the firewall under the hood.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 1414D19 209588 (1964-1971)
1212D19 Series Identify Prefix
209588 Sequential production number
NOTE: Jeep VIN consists of a series identity prefix and a 5 or 6 digit Sequential production number. The complete VIN must be given in order to effect identification from the manufacturer. The prefix may consist of 4 to 7 digits.
SAMPLE NUMBER: J3F83FTE00680 (1972-1977)
J Manufacturers symbol for Jeep Corp.
3 Model year (2-72, 3-73, 4-74, 5-75, 6-76, 7-77)
F Plant, transmission and Drive symbol
83 Body style symbol
T Type of GVW (gross vehicle weight)
E Engine type symbol
00680 Sequential production number
LINCOLN CONTINENTAL (All models 1954-1977)
1954-1957 VIN Stamped into top of "K" member near front of right hand frame side rail, (Standard Lincoln)
1956-1957 CONTINENTAL
VIN die stamped into top frame cross-member near left hand frame side rail.
1958 Unitized body construction began with vehicle 420000/ Vin die stamped into top face of truck compartment lock flange near right hand side.
1959-1960 VIN die stamped into top face of truck compartment lock flange near right hand side.
1961-1965 VIN die stamped into right front inner wheel house panel. (VIN may be covered by windshield washer bag.)
1966-1967 VIN die stamped into right front inner fender panel above upper suspension arm opening under hood.
1968 VIN stamped into an aluminum plate riveted to instrument panel, RIGHT HAND SIDE, visible though windshield.
1969-1977 VIN die stamped on a metal tab riveted to instrument panel, LEFT HAND SIDE, visible though windshield. (1968 and 1969 VIN stamped into Aluminum plate)
CAUTION: The PATENT PLATE riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing or the door may not necessarily show the true VIN. This plate should not be used to effect identification in the recovery of stolen or suspicious vehicles.
SAMPLE NUMBER: *54WA-5001H* (1954-1957) Lincoln Sedans
54 Model year
WA Assembly plant
5001 Sequential production number
H Engine type symbol
SAMPLE NUMBER: C56A10001 (1956-1957) Continentals
C Symbol for Continental division
56 Model year
A Production month symbol
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: *H8YC 400001* (1958-1959)
H Engine type symbol
8 Model year (8-58, 9-59)
Y Assembly Plant
C Body type symbol
4 Symbol for Lincoln division
00001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: *6Y82G400001* (1960-1967)
6 Model year (0-60, 1-61, 2-62, 3-63 etc)
Y Assembly plant
82 Series & body style
E Engine type symbol
400001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 8W66Z104155 (1968-1969)
8 Model year
W Assembly plant
66 Series & body style
Z Engine type symbol
104144 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: f7Y81A812094f (1970-1977)
7 Model year (0-70, 1-71, 2-72, 3-73 etc)
Y Assembly plant
81 Series & body style
A Engine type symbol
812094 Sequential production number
NOTE: The VIN's from 1954 - 1967 were protected by inclusive asterisks (*) which are not part of the VIN. From 1970 to present FORD MOTOR CO. began using the script "f", preceding and following the VIN (eleven alpha-numeric character VIN), they are not part of the VIN. There have been cases where dealerships have registered FORD products with the scrip "f".
Mercury (All models 1954-1977)
1954-1957 VIN stamped into right hand side of frame front cross member.
1958-1962 VIN die stamped into top of right hand frame side rail forward of firewall under the hood.
1963-1967 FULL SIZE MERCURY SEDANS
VIN die stamped into extension tab on top of cowl, right side of firewall, under hood.
COMET (1966-1967)
VIN die stamped into top surface of fender apron & radiator support at left hand side of car.
(1963-1965)
VIN die stamped into top left front inner fender apron under hood. Alternate location for early 1963 models and for 1960-1962, VIN die stamped into top surface of left hand brace extending from top of firewall to left front wheelhouse.
METEOR (1962-1963)
VIN die stamped into side of left front inner fender apron under hood.
COUGAR (1967 - )
VIN die stamped into top surface of inner fender panel and radiator support at left hand side of car under hood.
1968 VIN die stamped into a Aluminum plate riveted to instrument panel, RIGHT HAND SIDE of dash, visible though windshield.
1969-1977 VIN stamped into a metal tab (1968 & 1969 on a Aluminum tab) riveted to instrument panel, LEFT HAND SIDE visible though windshield.
CAUTION: The PATENT PLATE riveted to the left front door hinge pillar post facing or door itself is not to be used to effect identification, as it may not reflect the true VIN.
SAMPLE NUMBER: *54ME-100001M* (1954-1957)
54 Model year
ME Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
M Symbol for Mercury division
SAMPLE NUMBER: *M8WB 500001* (1958-1959)
M Engine type symbol
8 Model year
W Assembly plant
B Body type symbol
5 Symbol for Mercury division
500001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: *6S12C500001* (1960-1967)
6 Model year (0-60, 1-61, 2-62, 3-63, 4-64 etc)
S Assembly plant
12 Series and Body style symbol
C Engine type symbol
500001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 8W66Z104155 (1968-1969)
8 Model year (8-68, 9-69)
W Assembly plant
66 Series & body style symbol
Z Engine type symbol
104155 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: f3Z60Y500001f (1970-1977)
3 Model year (0-70, 1-71, 2-72, 3-73, etc)
Z Assembly plant
60 Series & body style symbol
Y Engine Type symbol
500001 Sequential production number
NOTE: The VIN's from 1954-1967 were protected by inclusive asterisks (*) which are not part of the VIN. From 1970 to the present FORD MOTOR CO. began using the script "f" preceding and following the VIN (the 11 alphanumeric character VIN), they are not part of the VIN.
METROPOLITAN
Although the Metropolitan was an imported car by first NASH and later by American Motors the car, since 1954, followed import car practice and was by declaration of statement of manufacturer. In 1963, American Motors discontinued importing the Metropolitan.
1954-1962 VIN stamped into a plate attached to the right hand side of cowl under hood. Alternate location VIN stamped into the dash to wheelhouse brace panel right hand side.
SAMPLE NUMBER: E59048 (1954-1962)
E Series identity symbol
59048 Sequential production number
(Sequential production number may consist of 4 or 5 digits)
OLDSMOBILE (All models 1954-1977)
1954-1964 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1965-1967 VIN embossed on a stainless steep plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1968-1977 VIN embossed on a plate located on left edge of instrument panel, visible though windshield. VIN derivative is also stamped on all transmissions and true engines.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 547B10001 (1954-1956)
54 Model year
7 Series Identity symbol
B Assembly plant
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 626M01001 (1957-1963)
62 Model year
6 Series Identity symbol
M Assembly plant
01001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 834M001002 (1964)
8 Engine Type Symbol
3 Series identity symbol
4 Model year
M Assembly plant
001002 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 336871R103133 (1965-1971)
3 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Oldsmobile
3687 Series & body style symbol
1 Model year
R Assembly plant
103133 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER 3R45T2X103680 (1972-1977)
3 GMC Manufacturers symbol for Oldsmobile
R Car line series symbol
45 Body type symbol
T Engine type symbol
2 Model year (2-72, 3-73, 4-74, 5-75, 6-76, 7-77)
X Assembly plant
103680 Sequential production number
PLYMOUTH (All models 1954-1977)
1954-1965 VIN die stamped and embossed on a plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing. Alternate location on some 1959 cars, plate attached to cowl under hood.
1966-1967 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1968-1977 VIN stamped into a plate, located on top of instrument panel, left side visible though windshield.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 16083001 (1954-1957)
VIN consists of an assigned Sequential production number.
SAMPLE NUMBER: LP1E-1001 (1958)
L Model year
P Plymouth division symbol
1 Engine type symbol
E Assembly symbol
1001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: M193100001 (1959)
M Model year
1 Engine Type symbol
9 Series type symbol
3 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 3341100001 (1960-1964)
3 Engine type (1 or 2 - 6 cyl, 3 - V8)
3 Series & Body type
4 Model year (0-60, 1-61, 2-62, 3-63, 4-64)
1 Assembly plant
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: P45110001 (1965)
P Car line (P- Fury V8, 5 Fury 6cyl, R- Belvedere V8, 3 Belvedere 6 cyl, V-Valiant V8, 1 Valiant 6 cyl)
4 Body type
5 Model year
1 Assembly plant
100001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: VL29B0B109878 (1966-1972)
V Car make symbol (V-Plymouth Valiant, P- Plymouth Fury etc)
L Series symbol
29 Body style symbol
B Engine type symbol
0 Model year (6-66, 7-67, 8-68, 9-69, 0-70 etc)
B Assembly plant
109878 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: PH41K6D101431 (1973-1977)
P Car Make Symbol
H Décor symbol
41 Body style symbol
K Engine type symbol
6 Model year (3-73, 4-74, 5-75, 6-76, 7-77)
D Assembly plant
101431 Sequential production number
PONTIAC (All models 1954-1977)
1954-1964 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1965-1967 VIN embossed on a stainless steel plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1968- 1977 VIN embossed on a plate located on left leading edge of instrument panel, visible though windshield. VIN also stamped on all transmissions and true engines.
SAMPLE NUMBER: T756H-1001 (1954-1958)
T Assembly plant
7 Series identity symbol
56 Model year
H Transmission identity symbol
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 459K1001 (1959)
4 Series identity symbol
59 Model year
K Assembly plant
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 663S1001 (1960-1963)
6 Series Identity symbol
63 Model year
S Assembly plant
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 834P1001 (1964)
8 Engine type symbol
3 Series identity symbol
4 Model year
P Assembly plant
10001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 268491P3000039 (1965-1971)
2 GMC manufacturers symbol for Pontiac
6849 Series and Body style symbol
1 Model year (5-65, 6-66, 7-67, 8-68, 9-69, 0-70, 1-71)
P Assembly plant
300039 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 2L57R2P319050 (1972-1977)
2 GMC manufacturers symbol for Pontiac
L Car line series symbol
57 Body type symbol
R Engine type symbol
2 Model year (2-72, 3-73, 4-74, 5-75, 6-76, 7-77)
P Assembly plant
319050 Sequential production number
STUDEBAKER (All models 1954-1966)
1954 VIN die stamped into a plate attached to left hand front door lock pillar post facing.
1955-1964 VIN die stamped into a stainless steel plate welded to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
1965-1966 VIN die stamped into stainless steel plate riveted to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
SAMPLE NUMBER: G-1247001 (1954-1958)
G Series Identity symbol (g-Champion)
1274001 Sequential production number
8354901 (1954-1958)
8 Series Identity symbol (8 -Commander, 7-President, 6- Golden Hawk)
354901 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 59S-1001 (1959-1964)
59 Model year
S Engine type symbol
10001 Sequential production number
NOTE: In January 1964 production was discontinued in the US, Canadian built was distributed. These vehicles may include a "C" following the engine type symbol and preceding the hyphen in the VIN.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 64SC-1001 (1964 Canadian built)
64 Model year
S Engine type symbol
C Canadian built
10001 Sequential production number
SHELBY (Shelby Automotive Company, Inc)
1968-1970 VIN stamped into metal tab (1970 stainless steel, 1968-1969 Aluminum), riveted to instrument panel. 1969-1970 Models VIN is on LEFT HAND SIDE visible though windshield. 1968 VIN is on RIGHT HAND SIDE visible though windshield. In addition 1968 Shelby VIN plate- containing Mustang VIN plus (5) five digits added at end, attached on left hand fender to skirt apron under hood.
NOTE: Shelby vehicles are based on Ford Mustang, and carry the Mustang VIN assigned in the Ford Assembly Plant of initial, partial manufacture.
VOLKSWAGON (All models 1949-1977)
1949-1964 VIN stamped into plate riveted under hood behind spare tire, and VIN die stamped under rear seat.
1965-1969 VIN stamped into plate riveted under hood behind spare tire, and VIN die stamped under rear seat
1970-1977 VIN stamped into plate riveted to top left side of dash, visible though windshields also under hood behind spare tire, and VIN die stamped under rear seat.
SAMPLE NUMBER: 919ZZ-6502399 (1949-1964)
SAMPLE NUMBER: 11 5 000001 (1965-1969)
11 Type
5 Year
000001 Sequential production number
SAMPLE NUMBER: 11 0 2000001 (1970-1977)
11 Type
0 Model year (0-70, 1-71, etc)
200001 Sequential production number
TYPE I
11 2 door bug
13 2 door "SUPER BUG"
14 Karman Ghia (discontinued 1975)
15 2 door convertible
17 Rabbit
18 Thing
TYPE II
21 Panel delivery
22 Station wagon
23 Kombi & Campmobile
26 Pickup and double CA
VIN locations possibly behind passenger seat on overhead heater vent in engine compartment. Also VIN is die stamped in engine compartment.
TYPE III
31 Fastback
32 Dasher 2 door
34 Dasher 4 door
36 Squareback (to 1975)
36 Dasher station wagon
TYPE IV
42 Big 4 door sedan (not a US import)
46 3 door sedan (not a US import)
TYPE V
53 Scirocco
WILLYS (All models 1954-1963, 1964 on see Jeep)
1954-1963 VIN stamped into plate fastened to either firewall under hood, or plate fastened to dashboard in driver's compartment. SEDANS and CLOSED BODIED VEHICLES - VIN Stamped into plate fastened to left front door hinge pillar post facing.
The VIN consisted of a Sequential production number assigned to each series. The VIN consisted of either a 4 or 5 digit Sequential production number. Some VIN's will have a 3 to 5 digit prefix denoting the model and body style.
