VIN Decoder
Instantly decode any 17-character Vehicle Identification Number
VIN Decoder ISO 3779
Decode any Vehicle Identification Number
How to Use VIN Decoder
- 1 Enter or paste a 17-character VIN number into the input field
- 2 The decoder instantly breaks down each section: manufacturer (WMI), vehicle descriptor (VDS), and vehicle identifier (VIS)
- 3 Review the decoded information including make, country, model year, assembly plant, and check digit validation
- 4 Use the example VINs to see how different manufacturers encode their vehicles
What You Get
This VIN decoder analyzes the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number according to the ISO 3779 international standard. It identifies the World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI), decodes the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) including check digit validation, and interprets the Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS) for model year and assembly plant information.
Input: WVWZZZ3CZWE123456
Output: Volkswagen, Germany, 2028 model year
Input: 1HGBH41JXMN109186
Output: Honda, United States, 2021 model year, check digit valid
Input: 5YJSA1120MF123456
Output: Tesla, United States, 2021 model year
What is a VIN number and what does it tell you?
A VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle since 1981. It encodes the manufacturer, country of origin, vehicle attributes, model year, assembly plant, and a unique serial number. Think of it as a vehicle's fingerprint.
Where do I find the VIN number on my car?
The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard (visible through the windshield), the driver's door jamb sticker, your vehicle registration document, and your insurance card. It may also be stamped on the engine block or vehicle frame.
How do I decode a VIN number for free?
Enter your 17-character VIN into our free decoder above. It instantly identifies the manufacturer, country of origin, model year, assembly plant, and validates the check digit — all processed in your browser with no data sent to any server.
What does each digit in a VIN number mean?
Positions 1-3 identify the manufacturer (WMI). Positions 4-8 describe vehicle attributes like body type and engine (VDS). Position 9 is a check digit for validation. Position 10 encodes the model year. Position 11 indicates the assembly plant. Positions 12-17 are the sequential production number.
Why are the letters I, O, and Q not used in VIN numbers?
The letters I, O, and Q are excluded from VINs to prevent confusion with the numbers 1, 0, and 9. This is defined in the ISO 3779 standard and helps avoid errors when reading or transcribing VIN numbers.
Is this VIN decoder safe and private?
Yes, absolutely. Our VIN decoder runs entirely in your browser. Your VIN is never sent to any server — all decoding happens locally using the ISO 3779 standard. No data is stored or transmitted.
All VIN decoding happens locally in your browser. Your VIN is never sent to any server or stored anywhere.