Vehicle identification numbers

Vehicle identification numbers

Modernization is a constantly ongoing process of making changes to the design of cars. Spare parts catalogs take into account these changes, which are reflected in the identification numbers, so in order to correctly select the spare parts suitable for a particular vehicle, it must be correctly identified.

Vehicle identification number (VIN)

The VIN number, which is included in the certificate and technical data sheet of the vehicle, is also stamped on a gray plate attached to the instrument panel on the left (driver's side), and visible through the windshield (see illustration). By the number you can determine the manufacturer and date of manufacture, as well as the country of production, version and body type. The number displays information about the installed security systems, as well as information about the manufacturers of the engine and other units.

Engine modification code and year of manufacture

The VIN number can be used to determine two important parameters: the engine modification code and the vehicle's production date. The eighth letter from the left is the engine modification code, and the vehicle year code is the tenth digit from the left.


The following engine coding is used on the vehicles described:

• S - inline six-cylinder MFI engine (LL8) volume 4.2 l

The models covered in this manual are coded as follows based on year of manufacture:

• 2 — 2002
• 3 — 2003

Certification plate

The plate is attached to the rear edge of the driver's door (see illustration). It displays the name of the manufacturer, month and year of manufacture, as well as the curb weight of the vehicle and the permissible load on the axles.

The vehicle's certification data is also provided there. On most models, this plate contains the size and inflation pressure of the tires that the vehicle was equipped with at the factory.

Service data plate

This plate is located on the back of the glove box lid and contains information about the vehicle's optional equipment, as well as paint and interior trim codes (see illustration). This data is necessary when ordering spare parts, as well as when performing bodywork and painting work.

Engine identification number (EIN)

The inline six-cylinder engine number is stamped in the lower left corner of the front of the cylinder block, above the engine sump mate. The engine number is also printed on a plate attached to the rear of the valve cover, on the left side.

Transmission identification number (TIN)

The number is stamped or engraved on the base of the transmission housing, on the back of the transmission pan (see illustration).

Transfer case identification plate

The transfer case identification data is located on a tag attached to the rear of the transfer case (see illustration).