Identification Codes
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit combination of letters and numbers. The VIN is stamped on a metal tab riveted to the instrument panel, top upper left of the dash. The VIN number is also found on the vehicle certification (VC) label.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI)
The first three vehicle identification number (VIN) positions are the world manufacturer code.
Brake Type and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The fourth VIN position is the vehicle brake type and GVWR code (all vehicles use hydraulic brakes).
Vehicle Line, Series, Body Type
Positions 5 through 7 indicate vehicle line, series and body type.
Engine Code
The eighth VIN position is the engine displacement and number of cylinders.
Check Digit Code
The ninth VIN position is a government assigned, computer-generated check digit.
Model Year Code
The tenth VIN position is the model year code.
· 2 — 2002
Assembly Plant Code
The eleventh VIN position is the assembly plant code.
Sequential Build Code
The last six VIN positions are an alphanumeric code for the vehicle build sequence. This is also the vehicle serial and warranty number.
· A0000-E99999 — Ford Division
Vehicle Certification (VC) Label
The vehicle certification (VC) label contains the manufacturer name, the month and year of manufacture, the certification statement, and the VIN. It also includes gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR).
Vehicle Certification (VC) Label — Mexico (Typical)
Vehicle Certification (VC) Label — Canada (Typical)
Vehicle Certification (VC) Label — Incomplete Vehicle (Typical)
Paint Code
Exterior paint codes may be listed as a two-part code. The first set of characters listed indicate the vehicle primary body color code. The second set of characters listed (if applicable) indicated a two-tone or accent body color code.
Wheelbase
Brake Type
· B — Four-wheel anti-lock brakes system (ABS)
Interior Trim
Interior trim codes are listed as a two-part code. The first character listed identifies the trim type. The second character listed identifies the interior trim color.
Tape/Paint Stripe
Radio Type
Axle Type
The following lists the gear ratios on rear axles.
Transmission Type
Springs
Springs codes are listed as a two-part code. The first character listed is for the front springs. The second code listed is for the rear springs. Auxiliary rear springs may also be listed.
Powertrain Calibration Information
NOTE: Powertrain calibration information is limited to a maximum of five characters per line on the vehicle certification (VC) label. Because of this, calibration identification consisting of more than five characters will wrap to the second line on the VC label.
Powertrain calibration information is printed in the lower right corner of the vehicle certification label. Only the base calibration information is printed. Revision levels will not appear, however, they can be found in On Line Automotive Service Information System (OASIS). For the current model year, Ford Motor Company is using three different protocols which describe powertrain base calibration. These protocols are designed to provide worldwide standardization for vehicle calibration. If the electronic calibration strategy has been used since 1998 and carried into the current model year, Protocol 1 will be used. Refer to Protocol 1 below. If the electronic calibration strategy has been used since 1999 and is carried into the current model year, Protocol 2 will be used. Refer to Protocol 2 below. For electronic calibration strategies introduced in the 2000 or later model years, Protocol 3 will be used. Refer to Protocol 3 below.
Protocol 1
Protocol 2
Protocol 3
Protocol 3
The following offers a more detailed explanation of the coding strategy used for Protocol 3.
Unique Calibration
The Emission/CAFE/CO2 Compliance Department is responsible for assigning these calibration numbers. Unique calibration identifications are assigned to cover similar vehicles to differentiate between tires, drive configurations, final drive ratios and other calibration-significant factors.
These two characters are chosen by the analyst to provide identifiable information unique to each calibration. For example, using the number 2 to denote a two-valve engine versus using the number 4 to denote a four-valve engine offers an easily identifiable difference.
Certification Region
Where multiple regions are listed in one calibration, only the lead region will be listed.