Free VIN Decoder
To decode a VIN, enter all 17 characters below. This free tool sends the VIN straight from your browser to NHTSA's vPIC database and shows the year, make, model, trim, body style, engine, fuel type and assembly plant. It also checks the 9th-character check digit and lists NHTSA recalls for that model.
How to read a VIN
| Position | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1-3 | World Manufacturer Identifier (country + maker) |
| 4-8 | Vehicle descriptor: model, body, engine, restraints |
| 9 | Check digit (catches typos) |
| 10 | Model year code (e.g. L = 2020, M = 2021, N = 2022, P = 2023, R = 2024, S = 2025, T = 2026) |
| 11 | Assembly plant |
| 12-17 | Serial number |
VINs never contain the letters I, O or Q, so they can't be confused with 1 and 0.
Not a government site. Plain Car Tools is an independent, free tool. Vehicle and recall data come from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public APIs (vPIC and Recalls). NHTSA does not endorse this site. For official recall status by VIN, use nhtsa.gov/recalls. Results are general information, not mechanic advice. Have a qualified mechanic or dealer inspect your vehicle before acting on them.
FAQ
What does a VIN tell you?
A VIN encodes the manufacturer and country (characters 1-3), vehicle attributes like body and engine (4-8), a check digit (9), the model year (10), the assembly plant (11) and a serial number (12-17).
How do I find my VIN?
Look at the lower driver-side corner of the windshield from outside, the driver door jamb sticker, or your title, registration or insurance card.
Why does my VIN show a check digit warning?
The 9th character is a math check on the other 16. A warning usually means a typo, often a confused 0/O, 1/I or 5/S. Some non-North-American VINs don't use a check digit.
Does a VIN decoder show accident history?
No. A VIN decoder shows factory specs. Accident, title and odometer history come from paid reports or the free NMVTIS-approved providers listed at vehiclehistory.gov.
Can I decode a VIN for a car built before 1981?
Usually not. The standard 17-character VIN began with 1981 models. Older vehicles have shorter, maker-specific serial numbers.