Check Digit Calculator
Last Updated February 23, 2024 | Andrew BoyleVIN Check Digit Calculator
Enter a ? for the 9th Digit if you don't have the Check Digit
The Check Digit is
What Is the Check Digit In a VIN Number?
A vehicle identification number, or VIN, is a unique code used to identify each vehicle produced by the automotive industry. VINs were standardized in 1981 to contain 17 characters, not including the letters i, o, and q. The first few digits identify the world manufacturer. The 4th to 8th digits identify the vehicle attributes. The 10th digit is the model year. The 11th digit is the plant where the vehicle was manufactured and the vehicle serial number is typically the 12th to 17th digit. The 9th digit is reserved for the check digit.
This VIN for most vehicles can be found stamped on the chassis, though the location varies from vehicle to vehicle.
What Does the 9th Digit of a VIN Mean?
The check digit, found in position 9 of the VIN, is used to validate the VIN and is compulsory for vehicles in North America. This digit is helpful for computers to immediately tell if there is an error or issue with the VIN. The check digit is calculated by removing all of the letters and substituting them with their appropriate number counterparts. You then take those numbers and multiply them against a weight factor table. You then have 16 numbers which you add together and divide by 11. The remainder is the check digit. If the remainder is 10, then the check digit is “X."
While this sounds more confusing than it is, we’ve simplified it so all you have to do is enter your VIN and the work is done for you. Use our Check Digit Calculator below to verify your Check Digit.
Source:Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN Codes>/Check Digit, Wikibooks
