Find the 17-character VIN on the vehicle
Identify the World Manufacturer Identifier in positions 1–3
Identify the Vehicle Descriptor Section in positions 4–8
Identify the check digit in position 9
Identify the model year in position 10
Identify the assembly plant in position 11
Identify the production sequence number in positions 12–17
Use a VIN decoder tool or manufacturer database to match the characters to vehicle details
Verify the VIN format and character validity
Cross-check the decoded information with the vehicle title, registration, or label