What is the method to check a car's version?
3 Answers
Querying a car's version can be done through these methods: 1. Determine the car version based on body paint data - the vehicle's side displays information like the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), manufacturing date, gross vehicle weight, engine model, and rated power; 2. Identify the production date via the chassis number - the 10th digit (letter or number) in the chassis number indicates the factory version; 3. Check the engine compartment's nameplate for version details, which specifies the car model, engine type, engine displacement, and production date; 4. The car's manual explicitly states its version.
Checking a car's version is actually quite simple. I usually rely on three methods. The configuration sheet provided by the salesperson when purchasing the car is the most direct evidence, clearly stating the model and specifications. The vehicle conformity certificate is even more authoritative - check the glove compartment or center console storage for that yellow folder containing detailed parameters. If you can't find the documents, don't worry. Locate the VIN at the corner of the windshield beneath the dashboard, take a photo with your phone, and input it into the automaker's official website or third-party vehicle identification software. Core information like engine model and transmission type will immediately appear. Once when helping a friend inspect a used car, I was fooled just by seeing the "TFSI" badge on the rear - turns out the VIN check revealed it was actually a low-power version.
Every time I go to the 4S shop for maintenance, the mechanic has his unique way to check my car's version. There's a metal nameplate in the small drawer under the steering wheel, with model codes like "XYZ2023L" that directly correspond to specific configurations. The tire size also matters—base models come with 16-inch wheels while top trims get 18-inch ones. The instrument cluster LCD screen is another great place for clues, often displaying the model name with version identifiers during startup. Once, they plugged a diagnostic computer into the OBD port below the steering wheel, and within three minutes, a full vehicle configuration sheet popped up, detailing everything down to the audio brand and seat heating features.
