Have you ever wondered what all of those letters and numbers mean in your vehicle identification number (VIN) located on the driver’s side dash? 

• The first position shows the country where it was built.  If that position is number 1, 4 or 5, it was built in the United States.  Number 2 indicates Canada;  3 is Mexico;  J, Japan;  K, Korea;  S, United Kingdom;  W, Germany;  and Y, Sweden.
  
  
• The second two positions identify the manufacturer.  This is apparent on the outside markings of the car.
  
  
• The next few positions are to identify the body style, engine, etc.
  
  
• The tenth position is important because it indicates the model year.  The letter R means 1994;  S, 1995;  T, 1996;  V, 1997;  W, 1998;  X, 1999;  and Y, 2000.  It is easier now:  1 stands for 2001, 2 for 2002, 3 for 2003, etc.
  
  
• The eleventh position indicates the assembly plant.
  
  
• The final six positions show the actual serial number of the car or truck.