Where is the manufacturing date written on a newly purchased sedan?
2 Answers
For a newly purchased sedan, the manufacturing date is indicated on the aluminum plate located under the front windshield and inside the engine compartment. The tenth digit of the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) represents the production year of the car. Each vehicle has a unique VIN, but the production date can always be found within it. For example, if the tenth digit is '5', it means the car was manufactured in 2005; if it's 'A', it indicates 2010, and 'B' stands for 2011. The VIN serves as a car's unique identifier, much like a person's ID number, and is often referred to as the vehicle identification code or chassis number. This 17-digit code typically includes information about the manufacturer, country of origin, vehicle type, and other characteristics.
When I first bought a new car, I was also very concerned about where the manufacturing date was. Later, I found that the most convenient place is on the side of the driver's door frame, where there's a small label printed with the manufacturing year and month, VIN code, and factory information. You can see it as soon as you open the door, and it becomes clear with a light wipe to remove dust. Additionally, there's a similar label under the hood, in front of the engine, often hidden near the radiator or battery, requiring you to crouch down a bit for a closer look. Knowing the date is quite important because the new car warranty period usually starts from the manufacturing date. Checking early can ensure you're not tricked into buying a stock car, and you can note it down in advance for insurance or negotiation when reselling. I recommend taking a photo for records right after buying the car. Usually, the vehicle manual might also note the date, but checking the car body directly is more reliable.
