Vehicle Identification Number

A seventeen-digit combination of numbers and letters forms the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN is stamped on a metal plate that is riveted to the instrument panel close to the windshield. The VIN is viewable by looking through the front windshield on the driver side. The VIN is also found on the certification label.

By looking at the seventeen-digit VIN, a variety of information about the vehicle can be determined.
- The first three digits identify the manufacturer and the vehicle make and type.
- The fourth digit determines the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR-Class) and brake system for Ford-completed trucks and Multi-Purpose Vehicles (MPVs). For incomplete vehicles, the fourth digit determines the brake system only.
- Digits five, six, and seven identify the model or line, series, chassis, and body type.
- The eighth digit points out the particular engine found in the vehicle.
- Digit nine is a check digit.
- The tenth digit identifies the model year.
- The eleventh digit identifies the assembly plant.
- Digits twelve through seventeen make up the sequence and warranty number. Digit twelve uses the letter "A" until the production or sequence of 99,999 units (digits thirteen through seventeen) is reached. Letter A then becomes B for the next production sequence of vehicles.




World Manufacturer Identifier






The world manufacturer identifier codes are located in VIN positions 1, 2, and 3.

Brake System/GVWR Class






The brake system/GVWR class code is located in VIN position 4.

Model or Line, Series, Chassis, Cab Type (Truck)






The model or line, series, chassis, cab type (truck) codes are located in VIN positions 5, 6, and 7.

Engine Type






The engine type code is located in VIN position 8.

Check Digit






The check digit code is located in VIN position 9.

Model Year






The vehicle model year code is located in VIN position 10.

Assembly Plant Code






The assembly plant code is located in VIN position 11.

Production Sequence






The production sequence number codes are located in VIN positions 12 through 17.