Decoding Your Unique Make & Model
When you use a VIN lookup at an auto parts store or online, you aren’t just looking up a unique number assigned to your vehicle. You’re looking up a code that includes everything from the model year to the manufacturer, the exact model variation and more. This makes it easier to diagnose issues with the vehicle and to find available parts from both OEM and aftermarket manufacturers. As a result, it makes shopping for parts and accessories much easier.
The first character in your VIN tells you where in the world it was manufactured. The next encodes the manufacturer, and the third the vehicle type. That would be sedan, SUV, truck and similar divisions. The next five give details on the exact vehicle branding, engine type, model and series within the model year, and so on. There’s a security check next to validate the number, and then the next two characters are model year and assembly plant. The final block is the actual serial number for the vehicle.
Parts Compatibility & Recall Information
Since your VIN is unique and contains information that codes the make and model along with the year, manufacturers often use it to issue recalls. For example, many Ford recalls only affect vehicles made at a specific plant over a couple month period, not every vehicle with that option package in that model year. The way those cars are identified is by VIN, and the VIN is easily referenced with readers that can decode the characters because those numbers are standardized across the industry.
Between the coded information in the VIN and the public record-keeping like car registrations that make use of it, you can easily see how having your VIN would make looking up all the parts you can use easy. Even without access to public records, the key digits in the VIN itself tells a story about exactly what components you need. That’s how your local part store knows which parts to recommend when you come in saying your car AC not cooling has gotten worse.
Take Charge of Your Vehicle’s Maintenance
Understanding how the VIN codes specific information about your vehicle can save you a lot of time by minimizing the details you need to remember. If it’s all in the VIN, being ready to supply it online or in person when you shop for parts will narrow down all your selections to not only choices that fit your car model and year, but also your specific edition, engine size, and option package. That makes it a lot easier for a DIY auto maintenance enthusiast to find the right parts with confidence.
Even if you are not planning on doing your own automotive work, understanding your VIN and how it helps professionals diagnose and repair your car can make a huge difference in how you communicate about issues and how quickly they get resolved. That’s why it is vital information for everyone to understand.
When you need new refrigerant for car AC units, it doesn’t matter who is addressing the issue, the VIN still makes things easier. Start shopping with your VIN on hand today to see how much faster you find parts.