How to identify the chassis number
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the unique identifier of a vehicle. It consists of 17 characters and contains key data such as the vehicle's production information, manufacturer, and model year. Correctly identifying the vehicle frame number is crucial for car purchase, maintenance, insurance and other scenarios. This article will introduce in detail the composition rules, identification methods and common problems of the frame number.
1. Composition rules of vehicle frame number

The 17 characters of the frame number are divided into three parts: World Manufacturer Identification Number (WMI), Vehicle Description Part (VDS) and Vehicle Indication Part (VIS). The following is a detailed analysis:
| Location | name | illustrate | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-3 people | WMI | World manufacturer code, identifying the vehicle production country and manufacturer | LHG (China Guangzhou Automobile Honda) |
| 4-9 people | VDS | Vehicle characteristic code, including car model, engine type, etc. | 4A3B2C |
| 10-17 people | VIS | Vehicle production serial number, the 10th digit is the model year | P1234567 |
2. How to identify the chassis number?
1.Find location: The frame number is usually located in the following location:
2.Decoding tool:VIN can be decoded by:
| Tool type | Recommended tools | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Online decoding | VINDecoder.net | Free analysis of manufacturer and model year |
| official channels | Car company official website or 4S store | Obtain accurate vehicle configuration information |
| Mobile APP | Car 300, CarFax | Check maintenance records and accident history |
3.Key character meaning:
| No. 10 | Model year comparison table (part) |
|---|---|
| L | 2020 |
| M | 2021 |
| N | 2022 |
| P | 2023 |
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What should I do if the chassis number is tampered with?
When you find that there are traces of grinding or welding on the frame number, you need to contact the traffic control department immediately for verification. This may involve car smuggling or car theft.
Q2: How to reissue a missing or ambiguous vehicle frame number?
You need to bring your vehicle registration certificate and ID card to the vehicle management office to apply for re-engraving, which costs about 200-500 yuan.
Q3: Are the vehicle frame number rules consistent in different countries?
The VIN rules in North America, Europe, and Asia basically follow the ISO standard, but some manufacturers may have customized codes (such as BMW's chassis number).
4. Recent hot topics
Recently, the issue of new energy vehicle frame number fraud has attracted attention. Some second-hand car dealers increase the selling price by modifying the motor type code in the VIN (such as changing the 4th digit "E" to "F"). Consumers can verify this through the official VIN query system.
Mastering the vehicle frame number identification skills can not only avoid car buying traps, but also quickly obtain vehicle maintenance records. It is recommended to save the comparison table of this article in case of emergency.
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