Which digit in the VIN indicates the production year?
2 Answers
VIN digit 10 represents the model year. VIN is the abbreviation for Vehicle Identification Number, which contains information about the vehicle's manufacturer, year, model, body type and code, engine code, assembly location, etc. The details are as follows: First digit: Country of manufacture code. Second digit: Manufacturing or administrative division code. Third digit: Vehicle type category code. Fourth digit: Occupant safety protection device code. Fifth digit: Vehicle series code. Sixth to seventh digits: Body type code. Eighth digit: Engine model code. Ninth digit: VIN check digit code. Tenth digit: Model year code. Eleventh digit: Assembly plant code. Twelfth digit: Production sequence number code.
When I first started driving, I didn't understand VIN codes either. It wasn't until I helped someone check a car that I realized the production year is indicated by the 10th digit. This 17-digit code is like a vehicle's ID card. The 10th digit represents the year code, and since 2001, the standard rule has been numbers 1 to 9 (corresponding to 2001-2009), followed by letters A-Y, skipping I, O, Q, U, Z (A is 2010, B is 2011). Now in 2024, it's R. Checking it is simple—I often use free online VIN decoders. Just input the code, and it directly displays the year, helping avoid scams when buying used cars. For example, last time my friend's car had a K in the 10th position, which turned out to be 2019 production, matching the car's appearance. In daily use, knowing the year is crucial for maintenance, helping plan tire or brake replacements. I suggest you also make it a habit to check the 10th digit of the VIN before buying a car—it ensures safety and peace of mind.
