Each and every vehicle is unique even though they are a part of a specific brand. Each vehicle is also uniquely identified via a 17 digit number. This number is referred to a VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number. You will notice that each vehicle you look at, including the certified Toyota models at your local dealership all have a VIN. A VIN is essentially to a vehicle as a social security number is to us. This number is used throughout the course of the vehicle’s entire existence. You can locate your VIN on the dash of your car or on the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb. Although it may look like a random number combination there is actually a method to the numbering system. The first three of the seventeen numbers is designated for World Manufacturer Identifier. The first number position represents the nation of origin, or the final point of assembly. For example, vehicles made in United States will start with a 1, 4, or 5; Japan made models will begin with a J, etc. The second position number refers to the actual manufacturer. An example of this would be, A for Audi, N for Nissan, T for Toyota, etc. The third number position refers the vehicle’s type or manufacturing division.Number positions 4 through 9 are known as the Vehicle Descriptor Section. Oddly enough the ninth position is known as the “check” digit. It is used to detect invalid VINs which are based off of a mathematical formula, developed by the Department of Transportation. The final digits, positions 10 through 17, make up the Vehicle Identifier Section. Next time you are looking at a vehicle to purchase, note the VIN, especially with a used car. Using this will give you great insight to its history when you run a vehicle history report.
Each and every vehicle is unique even though they are a part of a specific brand. Each vehicle is also uniquely identified via a 17 digit number. This number is referred to a VIN, or Vehicle Identification Number. You will notice that each vehicle you look at, including the certified Toyota models at your local dealership all have a VIN. A VIN is essentially to a vehicle as a social security number is to us. This number is used throughout the course of the vehicle’s entire existence. You can locate your VIN on the dash of your car or on the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb. Although it may look like a random number combination there is actually a method to the numbering system. The first three of the seventeen numbers is designated for World Manufacturer Identifier. The first number position represents the nation of origin, or the final point of assembly. For example, vehicles made in United States will start with a 1, 4, or 5; Japan made models will begin with a J, etc. The second position number refers to the actual manufacturer. An example of this would be, A for Audi, N for Nissan, T for Toyota, etc. The third number position refers the vehicle’s type or manufacturing division.Number positions 4 through 9 are known as the Vehicle Descriptor Section. Oddly enough the ninth position is known as the “check” digit. It is used to detect invalid VINs which are based off of a mathematical formula, developed by the Department of Transportation. The final digits, positions 10 through 17, make up the Vehicle Identifier Section. Next time you are looking at a vehicle to purchase, note the VIN, especially with a used car. Using this will give you great insight to its history when you run a vehicle history report.
Comments
Post a Comment