How to Identify the Model Year and Version of a Car
2 Answers
Methods to determine the production year of a car: 1. Check the VIN number, the 17-digit VIN code located under the windshield; the 10th digit indicates the production year; 2. Look for the vehicle identification plate; 3. Find the certificate of conformity or certificate of consistency. VIN stands for Vehicle Identification Number. According to SAE standards, the VIN consists of 17 characters, hence it is commonly referred to as the 17-digit code. The VIN contains information about the vehicle's manufacturer, year, model, body type and code, engine code, and assembly location. Correctly interpreting the VIN is crucial for accurately identifying the vehicle model and ensuring proper diagnosis and maintenance.
If you ask me how to identify a car's model year, I'd share my little tips. Typically, automakers make subtle design tweaks annually, so observing exterior details can give you a rough idea—changes in headlight shape, grille texture, or taillight design often reveal subtle differences. I particularly like checking the production plate on the door frame, which directly displays the manufacturing date. Then there's the VIN (17-digit vehicle identification number), located at the lower corner of the windshield—the 10th character (letter or number) indicates the model year, e.g., 'J' for 2018 and 'K' for 2019. Interior features also offer clues: seat materials, dashboard layouts, etc., often get refreshed yearly. I once compared a friend's car—the 2020 model's display was noticeably larger than the 2019 version. Remember, these details help when buying or selling cars, as part dimensions may vary, saving you from purchasing incorrect components.
