The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique number that is used to identify each vehicle manufactured in or imported into the United States. Auto manufacturers have used VINs since 1954, but the numbering system wasn't standardized until model year 1981.

Parts Program

In 1987, the Department of Transportation required that high-theft car lines of passenger vehicles have selected parts marked with the vehicle's VIN to assist law enforcement in tracing stolen parts.

History

In 1994 this regulation was extended to include light-duty trucks and multi-purpose vehicles. The regulation requires that "the engine, transmission, front/rear bumper, right/left front fender, hood, right/left front door, right/left rear door, sliding cargo door(s), right/left quarter panel (passenger cars), right/left side assembly (MPVs), pickup box, and /or cargo box (light-duty trucks), rear doors, decklid or hatchback and tailgate)" be marked with the VIN of the car.

Significance

Having the VIN etched on parts besides just the plate under the windshield makes it more difficult to sell cars that have been stolen without replacing or rubbing out the VIN on major components such as the engine.

Features

The VIN identifies the country the car was manufactured in, the manufacturer, division, body style of the car or the engine type, plant where it was assembled, model year and a unique number to identify the vehicle.

Benefits

If you need a new engine, and you don't know what kind, you can use the VIN to help. Most American cars use the eighth character to identify this component. Many foreign cars have it stamped on the engine block.

Source:

Federal Regulation

Location of VIN Plate by Manufacturer

Decode Your VIN