How to Decode a Ford VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

Every Ford vehicle comes with a unique 17-character VIN. This code isn’t random—it contains vital information about your car’s identity.

Here’s a breakdown of what each section of the VIN usually represents:

1. First 3 characters (WMI) – Country and manufacturer
2. Characters 4–8 – Vehicle line, body style, engine type
3. Character 9 – Check digit for fraud prevention
4. Character 10 – Model year
5. Character 11 – Assembly plant
6. Characters 12–17 – Production sequence number

Why Decode a VIN?

• Verify you’re buying the correct trim and engine
• Confirm authenticity before purchase
• Identify recalls or service bulletins

Want the easiest option? Skip manual decoding—just enter your VIN into our Ford Window Sticker Lookup Tool to see the full Monroney label.

Need More Than a Sticker?

If your Ford window sticker isn’t available, our partner offers multi-brand VIN lookups and official reports: 👉 Try the Partner VIN Lookup

Ford Owner Resources

From OBD-II scanners to accessories, having the right tools makes ownership easier.

🔑 Your Ford’s VIN tells a story—and the window sticker is the clearest chapter.