Volkswagen VIN decoder

Free Volkswagen VIN decoder: lookup windows sticker / build sheet options

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The Car Identification Number (VIN) is a unique 17-digit number assigned to each Volkswagen vehicle. This code, consisting of letters and numbers, is used by various businesses such as Volkswagen manufacturers, dealerships, and insurance agencies to identify and track a particular vehicle. With the help of a VIN decoder Volkswagen, you can uncover information about the car's make, model, production history, and other features. By using this tool, you can learn more about your unique Volkswagen. Fun fact: Volkswagen, also known as VW, is a German automaker established in 1937 that produces a variety of popular vehicles such as sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs.

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John - out author and car expert

By John Devn

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Updated 2023-04-04

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Where to find Volkswagen VIN number

The vehicle identification code, which is a distinct identifier, can be located in various areas such as:
  • At the bottom of the windshield, on the driver's side of the dashboard, visible through the glass.
  • On the point where the driver-side door jamb meets the frame of the car when it's closed.
  • In car-related literature, such as the owner's manual.
  • On documents that can be kept at home, such as the title, registration, and insurance policies, in the glove box or trunk.
  • It might be engraved on the engine block, often located near the front of the engine.
  • On the transmission;
  • On the vehicle's structure or undercarriage. It's important to remember that the VIN can be included on a motor vehicle history report if one is available for the vehicle. This report contains information on the vehicle's ownership, maintenance, and accident history.
Where to find Volkswagen VIN number
Chart option of VIN number

Chart option of VIN number

The World Manufacturer Identifier, commonly referred to as WMI, is a unique code that identifies the manufacturer of a Volkswagen vehicle. It typically consists of the first three characters found in a VIN and helps to determine the country of origin, manufacturer, and type of vehicle. Here are some examples of WMI codes for Volkswagen vehicles:

Designation Location Company Designation Description Date
1V1 USA Volkswagen Group of America Inc Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles 2007-02-16
1V2, 1V3 USA Volkswagen Group of America Inc - 2020-09-08
1VW USA Volkswagen Group of America Inc Passenger Cars 2007-02-16
2C4 Canada Chrysler  Volkswagen Routan 2019-06-04
2V4 Canada Chrysler  Volkswagen Routan 2015-11-04
2V8 Canada Chrysler   Volkswagen Routan 2017-03-16
3VV Mexico Volkswagen SA de CV Multi Purpose Passenger Vehicles 2017-12-22
3VW Mexico Volkswagen SA de CV Passenger Cars 2007-02-16
8AV Argentina Volkswagen SA - 2007-02-16
8AW Argentina Volkswagen SA - 2017-03-16
8AX Argentina Volkswagen SA - 2007-07-09
93U Brasil Volkswagen  - 2017-03-16
9BW Brasil Volkswagen Passenger Cars 2007-02-16
AAV South Africa Volkswagen  - 2007-02-16
LFV China FAW-Volkswagen Automotive Co Ltd - 2019-06-04
LSV China Shanghai Volkswagen Automotive Co Ltd - 2019-06-04
MEX IND Volkswagen  - 2019-06-04
PPV MAL Volkswagen  Passenger Cars 2019-06-04
W09 Germany Volkswagen Motorsport  Passenger cars (Hannover) 2012-12-12
W09 Germany Volkswagen Individual  Passenger cars 2012-12-12
WV1 Germany Volkswagenwerke AG Volkswagen Commercial  2007-02-16
WV2, WV3 Germany Volkswagenwerke AG Volkswagen Bus/Van 2007-02-16
WV4-WVE Germany Volkswagen AG - 2012-12-12
WVF Germany Volkswagen AG  - 2012-12-12
WVG Slovenia Volkswagen AG  Touran/Tuareg 2007-02-28
WVH-WVN Germany Volkswagen AG  - 2012-12-12
WVW Germany Volkswagen AG  passenger cars 2007-02-16
XW8 Russia Volkswagen Group Rus  - 2008-08-21

A VDS (Vehicle Description Section) is a section of the VIN that provides specific information about the vehicle's model, body style, propulsion system, and transmission. It usually consists of six to seven characters, which can be used to identify the vehicle's original blueprint and check for any changes.

A VIS (Vehicle Identification Section) is another part of the VIN that provides specific information about the vehicle, such as the model, body style, propulsion system, and transmission. The VIS usually consists of six to eight characters, which can be used to identify the vehicle's features, place of manufacture, assembly order, and model year.

What you can know from VIN decoder tool

A VIN decoder tool can uncover various vehicle-related information, including:

  • Make, model, and year of production
  • Engine specifications such as type and size
  • Transmission type and details
  • Trim level, options, and packages installed
  • Body style and number of doors
  • Place of manufacture
  • Safety equipment and features
  • Production date and sequence number
  • Exterior and interior color and trim
  • Fuel efficiency and emissions rating
  • Recall and service bulletins
  • Manufacturer's warranty details
  • Registration and title information

Example of free VIN decoding

The VIN number "3VW447AU5GM002444" corresponds to a 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn.

  • 1st character (3): Indicates the country of origin, which is Mexico in this case
  • 2nd character (V): Identifies the manufacturer, which is Volkswagen
  • 3rd character (W): Specifies the vehicle attributes, such as model type, restraint types, body type, engine, and transmission
  • 4th-8th characters (447AU): Identifies the model, which is Golf GTI in this instance
  • 9th character (5): Check digit, used to ensure the accuracy of the VIN
  • 10th character (G): Identifies the model year, which is 2016
  • 11th character (M): Identifies the manufacturer's plant code, which is Puebla, Mexico in this case
  • 12th-17th characters (002444): Identifies the production number, used to identify the specific vehicle within the production run.

By deciphering the VIN, we can deduce that this particular car is a 2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI Autobahn Hatchback/Liftback/Notchback manufactured in Puebla, Mexico.

What you can know from VIN history

Additional information about a vehicle's history can be obtained from a vehicle history report (VHR), which includes:

  • Ownership and registration history
  • Reports of incidents and damage
  • Service and maintenance records
  • Recalls and defects related to safety
  • Odometer readings and history of rollbacks
  • Salvage or scrap classification
  • Flood or fire damage reports
  • Lemon history
  • Total loss records
  • Emissions test results
  • Title and registration details
  • Plate numbers

Models of Volkswagen

  • It is possible that the VIN may have been lost, covered by paint or another substance, or deliberately removed by the owner or another person who wanted to hide the car's identification.

  • If you need assistance, contact the manufacturer of the car. They may have information on how to obtain the VIN or have records of it.
  • If possible, reach out to the car's original dealership as they may be able to provide insight on the VIN or assist you in locating it. They might have knowledge regarding the VIN or be able to assist you in locating it.

All information about Volkswagen on this page is based on data from:

NHTSA logo

NHTSA

SaferCar logo

SafeCar

NMVTIS logo

NMVTIS