Decoding Mopar VIN Numbers: A Complete Guide For Cars And Trucks From 1946 To Today

JEGS Tech Specialist

Pete Mitchell

Whether you're restoring a classic Dodge Charger, researching a Plymouth Road Runner, verifying a matching-numbers HEMI car, identifying a vintage Power Wagon, or decoding a modern Challenger or Ram truck, understanding Mopar VIN numbers is one of the most valuable skills a Mopar enthusiast can learn.

A Vehicle Identification Number, commonly known as a VIN, contains critical information about a vehicle's identity and original configuration. Depending on the year, a Mopar VIN may reveal the vehicle line, body style, engine, model year, assembly plant, trim level, and production sequence.

Because Chrysler Corporation's VIN systems evolved significantly between 1946 and today, decoding a Mopar VIN requires understanding the specific format used during each era. The VIN format found on a 1948 Plymouth is dramatically different from the VIN on a 1969 Dodge Charger, which is different again from the standardized 17-character VIN used on modern Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles.

This guide breaks down every major Mopar VIN system from the first postwar vehicles through today's muscle cars, trucks, SUVs, and performance vehicles. Whether you're trying to verify authenticity, confirm factory specifications, identify a project vehicle, or simply learn more about your Mopar, this guide will help you decode the information hidden within the VIN.

What Is A VIN Number?

A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a unique serial number assigned to a vehicle by its manufacturer. Think of it as the vehicle's fingerprint. No two vehicles produced within the same VIN system share the same identification number.

VIN numbers serve several important purposes:

• Identifying the vehicle's manufacturer
• Verifying the model year
• Determining the vehicle line and body style
• Identifying the original engine in many applications
• Tracking assembly plant information
• Supporting registration and titling
• Assisting with recalls and service campaigns
• Helping verify authenticity during restorations
• Supporting vehicle history research

For Mopar enthusiasts, VIN numbers are especially important because they often provide the first clues about whether a vehicle is original, numbers-matching, or equipped with a desirable factory engine package.

A properly decoded VIN can help identify rare vehicles such as:

• 426 HEMI-equipped Mopars
• 440 Six Pack models
• Dodge Super Bees
• Plymouth Road Runners
• Dodge Challengers
• Plymouth 'Cudas
• High-performance Dodge Chargers
• Early Chrysler letter cars

It is important to understand that VIN numbers evolved significantly over time. Early postwar Mopars used simple serial numbers that contained limited information. By the muscle car era, VINs became much more descriptive, and beginning in 1981, all Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, Jeep, Eagle, and Ram vehicles adopted the federally standardized 17-character VIN format still used today.

Before decoding a VIN, the first step is determining which identification system your vehicle uses. The following sections explain each Mopar VIN format in detail and show you exactly how to decode vehicles built from 1946 through today.ughout their history, ranging from simple serial numbers in the late 1940s to today's standardized 17-character VIN system.

Mopar VIN Numbers From 1946 To 1954

Early Postwar Serial Number Systems

After World War II, Chrysler Corporation resumed civilian vehicle production for the 1946 model year. During this period, Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, and DeSoto vehicles did not use a modern Vehicle Identification Number. Instead, they used manufacturer-assigned serial numbers that identified the vehicle series and production sequence.

Unlike later VIN systems, these serial numbers were not standardized across all Chrysler divisions. The format varied by make, model, and year.

Serial number plates were commonly located on:

• Driver side door pillar
• Firewall identification plate
• Driver side front door hinge pillar
• Vehicle data plate

Typical Serial Number Format

Most Mopar vehicles built between 1946 and 1954 used a serial number consisting of:

Series Code + Sequential Production Number

Example:

1501-12345

In this example:

• 1501 = Vehicle series or model designation
• 12345 = Production sequence number

The exact meaning of the series code depended on the manufacturer and model year.

How Many Digits Were Used?

There was no universal digit count used across all Chrysler Corporation brands during this period.

Typical serial numbers ranged from approximately:

Total serial number length typically ranged from approximately 8 to 12 characters depending on model and production year.

What Can Be Decoded?

For most 1946-1954 Mopars, the serial number can usually identify:

Manufacturer

The serial number can identify whether the vehicle was built as a:

• Chrysler
• Dodge
• Plymouth
• DeSoto

Vehicle Series

The prefix or series designation identifies the specific model family.

Examples include:

• Plymouth Special Deluxe
• Dodge Meadowbrook
• Dodge Coronet
• DeSoto Custom
• Chrysler Windsor
• Chrysler New Yorker

Production Sequence

The numerical portion identifies the vehicle's position within the production run for that series.

Example: 1949 Plymouth Serial Number

A typical 1949 Plymouth serial number may appear similar to:

1501-23456

Where:

• 1501 = Plymouth Special Deluxe series
• 23456 = Sequential production number

Unlike later VIN systems, the digits themselves do not individually identify body style, engine, assembly plant, or trim level.

Additional Identification Numbers

Because early Mopar serial numbers contained limited information, restorers often rely on additional identification sources.

Engine Number

Many 1946-1954 Mopars carried engine numbers that can help verify originality.

Body Number Tags

Body tags may provide information about:

• Body style
• Production sequence
• Assembly information

Build Records

Factory production records and historical registries often provide additional information not contained within the serial number itself.

Why Early Mopar Decoding Is Different

The modern VIN concept did not fully evolve until the 1960s and was not federally standardized until 1981.

For this reason, 1946-1954 Mopar serial numbers should be viewed primarily as identification numbers rather than comprehensive vehicle specification codes.

For enthusiasts restoring early Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, and DeSoto vehicles, decoding usually requires examining the serial number, engine number, body tags, and factory documentation together.

Mopar VIN Numbers From 1955 To 1965

Why This Era Requires Extra Attention

Mopar VIN decoding from 1955 to 1965 can be confusing because Chrysler Corporation did not use one single format across the entire period. The mid-1950s still relied heavily on serial number ranges, while 1959 through 1965 used a more structured 10-character VIN format on most U.S. passenger cars.

For that reason, the best way to decode a 1955-1965 Mopar VIN is to first identify the model year range, then apply the correct format.

1955-1958 Mopar VIN and Serial Number Format

General Format

Most 1955-1958 Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, DeSoto, and Imperial vehicles used serial-style identification numbers rather than fully decoded VINs like later muscle cars.

These numbers were generally used to identify:

• Make
• Model series
• Assembly sequence
• Production range

Unlike later VINs, each individual digit did not always decode into a specific item such as engine, body style, or assembly plant.

Typical Number Length

For many 1955-1958 Mopar passenger cars, the vehicle identification number was commonly an 8-digit serial number. Some body tags and related identification plates may include additional codes, but the main vehicle serial number was usually shorter than later 10-character and 13-character VINs.

How To Decode 1955-1958 Mopar Serial Numbers

For this period, decoding is usually done by comparing the serial number against factory serial number ranges for the specific make, model, and year.

A typical 1955-1958 decoding process looks like this:

1. Locate the serial number on the vehicle identification plate.
2. Confirm the make, such as Plymouth, Dodge, DeSoto, Chrysler, or Imperial.
3. Compare the number to known factory serial number ranges for that make and model year.
4. Use body tags, engine numbers, and production documents to confirm additional details.

What a 1955-1958 Serial Number Can Usually Tell You

A 1955-1958 Mopar serial number can usually help identify the vehicle's basic production identity, but it may not directly provide every option or drivetrain detail.

It can often help confirm:

• Vehicle make
• Approximate model year
• Vehicle series
• Production sequence

It may not directly identify:

• Original engine
• Trim package
• Paint color
• Interior color
• Transmission
• Optional equipment

For those details, use the body tag, engine number, build records, or factory documentation.

1959 Mopar 10-Character VIN Format

1959 VIN Layout

For 1959, Mopar passenger cars commonly used a 10-character VIN format:

YLCPNNNNNN

Each character group breaks down as follows:

First Character: Model Year

The first character identifies the model year.

For 1959:

• M = 1959 in many Chrysler Corporation decoding references

Because different references may present 1959 coding differently, always verify with a year-specific Mopar VIN chart.

Second Character: Car Line

The second character identifies the car line or division.

This may indicate whether the vehicle is a Plymouth, Dodge, DeSoto, Chrysler, or Imperial.

Third Character: Price Class or Series

The third character identifies the price class or trim level.

This may separate lower trim vehicles from higher trim or premium models.

Fourth Character: Assembly Plant

The fourth character identifies the assembly plant.

Last Six Characters: Production Sequence Number

The final six digits are the sequential production number.

This number identifies the vehicle's place in the production run.

1960-1965 Mopar 10-Character VIN Format

Standard 1960-1965 VIN Layout

Most U.S. built 1960-1965 Mopar passenger cars use a 10-character VIN format:

LCYPNNNNNN

This format is one of the most important systems for Mopar owners to understand before the more familiar 1966-up VIN format arrived.

The 1960-1965 VIN breaks down like this:

• L = Car line
• C = Price class, series, or body type
• Y = Model year
• P = Assembly plant
• NNNNNN = Six-digit production sequence number

First Character: Car Line

The first character identifies the car line. This is the starting point for decoding 1960-1965 Mopar VIN numbers.

Examples may include codes for:

• Plymouth Valiant
• Plymouth full-size models
• Dodge Dart
• Dodge Coronet
• Dodge Polara
• Chrysler models
• Imperial models

The exact meaning of the first character can vary by model year, so it is important to use a year-specific chart when decoding this position.

Example 1965 First Character Codes

For 1965, common first character examples include:

• 1 = Plymouth Valiant or Barracuda with Slant-6
• 2 = Dodge Dart with Slant-6
• 3 = Plymouth Belvedere with Slant-6
• 4 = Dodge Coronet with Slant-6
• C = Chrysler V8
• D = Dodge Polara, 880, or Monaco V8
• L = Dodge Dart V8
• R = Plymouth Belvedere V8
• V = Plymouth Valiant or Barracuda V8
• W = Dodge Coronet V8
• Y = Imperial V8

Second Character: Series, Price Class, or Body Type

The second character identifies the model series, price class, or body type depending on the year and vehicle line.

This position may indicate whether the vehicle was a base model, mid-level trim, premium trim, police package, taxi package, or fleet vehicle.

Example 1965 Second Character Codes

For 1965, common second character examples include:

• 1 = Base series, such as Valiant 100, Belvedere I, Fury I, Dart 170, Coronet Deluxe, Polara, Custom 880, Newport
• 2 = Mid-level or upgraded series, such as Fury II, Coronet, Chrysler 300, or Imperial Crown
• 3 = Higher trim series, depending on model line
• 4 = Premium or specialty series, depending on model line
• 8 = Taxi
• 9 = Police
• 0 = Fleet

Because Chrysler reused some numeric codes differently across car lines, this digit should be decoded together with the first character.

Third Character: Model Year

The third character identifies the model year for most 1960-1965 Mopar passenger car VINs.

Examples include:

• 0 = 1960
• 1 = 1961
• 2 = 1962
• 3 = 1963
• 4 = 1964
• 5 = 1965

This is one of the easiest positions to decode in the 1960-1965 VIN format.

Fourth Character: Assembly Plant

The fourth character identifies the assembly plant.

Common 1962-1965 plant code examples include:

• 1 = Lynch Road, Michigan
• 2 = Hamtramck, Michigan
• 3 = Jefferson, Michigan
• 4 = Belvidere, Illinois
• 5 = Los Angeles, California
• 6 = Newark, Delaware
• 7 = St. Louis, Missouri

Plant codes can vary slightly by year and source, so always verify with a year-specific reference when authenticity matters.

Last Six Characters: Production Sequence Number

The final six digits are the production sequence number.

This number identifies the vehicle's place in the production run. It does not usually decode options, engine size, paint color, or trim by itself.

For example, in the VIN:

V852123456

The final six digits are:

123456

That number is the vehicle's production sequence.

Example: Decoding a 1965 Mopar VIN

Example VIN

V852123456

Using the 1960-1965 Mopar VIN format:

V = Car Line

V identifies a Plymouth Valiant or Barracuda V8 for 1965.

8 = Series or Price Class

The second digit identifies the vehicle's series or class. Depending on the year-specific chart, this may indicate a special model, taxi, police, or other class designation.

5 = Model Year

5 identifies the vehicle as a 1965 model.

2 = Assembly Plant

2 identifies Hamtramck, Michigan.

123456 = Production Sequence

The last six digits identify the vehicle's production sequence number.

What 1959-1965 Mopar VINs Usually Do Not Tell You

Even though 1959-1965 VINs are more detailed than earlier serial numbers, they still do not provide as much information as later muscle car VINs.

A 1959-1965 Mopar VIN may not fully identify:

• Paint color
• Interior trim
• Optional equipment
• Axle ratio
• Transmission
• Exact carburetor package
• Some engine details, depending on year and car line

For those details, use the body tag, fender tag, broadcast sheet, engine stamping, and factory documentation.

Canadian Mopar VIN Note

Some Canadian-built Mopar vehicles used slightly different VIN formats. In some cases, Canadian 1965 cars may include an additional C in the VIN, creating an 11-character format instead of the standard 10-character U.S. format.

When decoding Canadian-built Mopars, always use Canadian-specific reference material.

Best Way To Decode a 1955-1965 Mopar VIN

To accurately decode a Mopar VIN from this era, follow this process:

1. Count the characters in the VIN.
2. If it is from 1955-1958, treat it as a serial number and compare it to factory serial number ranges.
3. If it is a 1959 vehicle, use the 1959 10-character format.
4. If it is a 1960-1965 vehicle, use the LCYPNNNNNN format.
5. Decode the car line, series, model year, assembly plant, and production sequence.
6. Use body tags, engine numbers, and factory records to confirm options and drivetrain details.

Why This Matters for Restorations

Accurate VIN decoding helps confirm whether a Mopar vehicle is what it is claimed to be. This is especially important for collectible models such as early Barracudas, Chrysler 300 letter cars, Dodge Darts, Plymouth Furys, and early B-body performance cars.

For restoration work, the VIN is only the first step. Matching the VIN with body tags, engine numbers, and documentation provides the most complete picture of the vehicle's original identity.

Mopar VIN Numbers From 1966 to 1970

The Golden Age of Mopar Muscle Cars

The 1966 through 1970 model years represent the heart of the Mopar muscle car era. During this period, Chrysler Corporation introduced a much more structured VIN system that provided significantly more information than previous identification formats.

Popular vehicles from this era include:

• Dodge Charger
• Dodge Coronet
• Dodge Super Bee
• Plymouth Road Runner
• Plymouth GTX
• Plymouth Satellite
• Plymouth Barracuda
• Dodge Challenger
• Dodge Dart
• Plymouth Fury
• Chrysler 300

Unlike earlier serial numbers, nearly every position in the VIN serves a specific purpose. By decoding each character, owners can often determine exactly what the vehicle was when it left the factory.

Understanding the 13-Character Mopar VIN

Most 1966-1970 Mopar passenger cars use a 13-character VIN format:

Example VIN

XS29L9B123456

This VIN can be broken into six sections:

Let's decode each position individually.

First Character: Car Line

The first character identifies the vehicle family or platform.

Common Car Line Codes

Example

XS29L9B123456

The "X" indicates the vehicle is a Dodge Charger.

Second Character: Price Class

The second character identifies trim level, price class, or performance designation.

Common Price Class Codes

Examples

XS29L9B123456

"S" indicates a Special Price Class Charger.

RM23H9A123456

"M" indicates a medium-price Plymouth Belvedere series vehicle.

RS23L0A123456

"S" identifies a Road Runner.

Third and Fourth Characters: Body Style

The third and fourth positions identify the body configuration.

Common Body Style Codes

Examples

23

Two-door hardtop.

27

Convertible.

29

Sports hardtop, commonly seen on Chargers and other performance models.

Example

XS29L9B123456

The "29" identifies a Charger Sports Hardtop.

Fifth Character: Engine Code

The fifth position is often the most important character in a classic Mopar VIN.

This code identifies the engine originally installed at the factory.

Common 1966-1970 Engine Codes

Important Note

Engine codes vary slightly by year and model line.

Always verify engine codes using year-specific factory references.

Example

XS29L9B123456

The "L" identifies a factory 440 High Performance engine.

Sixth Character: Model Year

The sixth character identifies the model year.

Year Codes

Example

XS29L9B123456

The "9" indicates a 1969 model year.

Seventh Character: Assembly Plant

The seventh position identifies where the vehicle was built.

Common Mopar Assembly Plants

Example

XS29L9B123456

The "B" identifies Hamtramck Assembly.

Many HEMI and high-performance Mopars were assembled at Hamtramck.

Positions 8 Through 13: Production Sequence Number

The final six digits represent the vehicle's unique production sequence.

Example

XS29L9B123456

The production sequence is:

123456

These numbers do not identify options, engine upgrades, colors, or transmission type.

They simply identify the vehicle's position within the production run.

Complete VIN Decoding Example

Let's decode the full VIN:

XS29L9B123456

Result

This VIN identifies a:

1969 Dodge Charger Special Price Class Sports Hardtop originally equipped with a 440 High Performance engine and built at the Hamtramck Assembly Plant.

What the VIN Does Not Tell You

Even though 1966-1970 VINs provide much more information than earlier Mopar identification systems, they do not reveal everything.

The VIN alone typically cannot identify:

• Paint color
• Interior trim
• Transmission type
• Axle ratio
• Option packages
• Stripe packages
• Radio options
• Performance suspension packages

For those details, you must inspect the vehicle's:

Fender Tag

The fender tag contains factory option codes and production information.

Broadcast Sheet

The broadcast sheet is the original factory build document and is one of the most valuable sources of information for restorers.

Engine and Transmission Stampings

Matching numbers collectors often use these stampings to verify originality and authenticity.

Special Considerations for HEMI and Six Pack Cars

Because vehicles equipped with the 426 HEMI and 440 Six Pack are among the most valuable Mopars ever produced, VIN verification is especially important.

A genuine HEMI or Six Pack car should have:

• Correct VIN engine code
• Matching fender tag information
• Correct engine stampings
• Supporting factory documentation when available

Proper VIN decoding is often the first step in confirming the authenticity of these highly collectible muscle cars.

JEGS Newsletter Signup

Sign up now to join the JEGS email newsletter and be the first to learn about new products, special deals and e-mail only offers!

E-mail*

Please enter a valid email

Sign up today

Thank you for signing up!

Mopar VIN Numbers From 1971 To 1980

Expanded Vehicle Identification

Beginning in 1971, Chrysler Corporation revised its VIN system to provide more detailed vehicle information. While the basic structure remained similar to the late 1960s format, additional vehicle classifications were incorporated to support growing federal safety, emissions, and manufacturing requirements.

This VIN system was used across many popular Mopar vehicles including:

• Dodge Challenger
• Plymouth Barracuda
• Plymouth Duster
• Dodge Dart
• Dodge Aspen
• Plymouth Volaré
• Chrysler Cordoba
• Dodge Monaco
• Chrysler Newport
• Dodge Ram pickups
• Dodge Power Wagon trucks

For most passenger cars, the VIN remained a 13-character format that could identify the vehicle line, price class, body style, engine, model year, assembly plant, and production sequence.

Understanding the 1971-1980 Mopar VIN Format

Example VIN

BS23R1B123456

This VIN can be broken into the following sections:

First Character: Car Line

The first character identifies the vehicle family.

Common Car Line Codes

Some vehicle line codes changed slightly throughout the decade, particularly after the introduction of newer platforms such as the Aspen and Volaré.

Second Character: Price Class

The second position identifies trim level or price class.

Common Price Class Codes

The exact meaning depends on the specific model line.

For example, an "S" on a Challenger may indicate a different trim level than an "S" on a Satellite.

Third and Fourth Characters: Body Style

The third and fourth characters identify body style.

Common Body Style Codes

Example

BS23R1B123456

The "23" identifies a two-door hardtop.

Fifth Character: Engine Code

The engine code remains one of the most important positions in the VIN.

This character identifies the engine originally installed by Chrysler.

Common Early 1970s Engine Codes

Mid and Late 1970s Examples

As emissions regulations increased, engine offerings changed.

Common engine codes may include:

Always reference year-specific Mopar documentation when verifying engine codes because Chrysler occasionally reassigned letters.

Sixth Character: Model Year

The sixth character identifies the model year.

Year Codes

Example

BS23R1B123456

The "1" indicates a 1971 model year.

Seventh Character: Assembly Plant

The seventh position identifies where the vehicle was assembled.

Common Mopar Assembly Plants

Example

BS23R1B123456

The "B" identifies the Hamtramck Assembly Plant.

Positions 8 Through 13: Production Sequence Number

The final six digits identify the vehicle's production sequence.

Example

BS23R1B123456

Production number:

123456

These numbers indicate where the vehicle fell in the production run.

They do not identify:

• Paint color
• Interior trim
• Transmission
• Axle ratio
• Optional equipment

Example VIN Decoding

VIN

BS23R1B123456

Breakdown

Result

This VIN identifies a 1971 Plymouth Barracuda Special Price Class hardtop originally equipped with a 426 HEMI engine and assembled at the Hamtramck plant.

Special Considerations for 1970s Mopars

Challenger and Barracuda

Early 1970s E-Body vehicles remain some of the most valuable Mopars ever built. VIN verification is extremely important when evaluating these cars.

Aspen and Volaré

Introduced in the mid-1970s, these models use the same general VIN structure but different car line codes and engine designations.

Dodge Trucks and Power Wagons

Truck VINs follow a somewhat different structure than passenger cars. Truck VINs often incorporate:

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
• Wheelbase classification
• Drive configuration
• Cab type

For truck restorations, factory truck VIN charts should be consulted.

What the VIN Does Not Tell You

Even though 1971-1980 VINs contain more information than earlier systems, they still cannot fully identify:

• Paint code
• Interior trim code
• Transmission type
• Axle ratio
• Optional equipment
• Special appearance packages
• Factory accessories

For those details, Mopar owners should inspect:

Fender Tags

The fender tag remains one of the most important identification tools on classic Mopars.

Broadcast Sheets

Broadcast sheets provide the complete factory build information.

Engine and Transmission Stampings

These stampings help confirm matching-numbers authenticity.

The Beginning of Modern VIN Tracking

The 1971-1980 VIN system represents the bridge between classic muscle car VINs and the fully standardized 17-character VIN system introduced across the automotive industry in 1981.

For Mopar enthusiasts, understanding this era is essential because it covers everything from the final years of the HEMI muscle car era to the introduction of iconic vehicles such as the Dodge Aspen, Plymouth Volaré, and later Dodge trucks that helped shape Chrysler's future.

Mopar VIN Numbers From 1981 To Present

The Introduction of the Modern 17-Character VIN

Beginning with the 1981 model year, all vehicles sold in the United States adopted a standardized 17-character Vehicle Identification Number system. This format was mandated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to improve vehicle identification, safety tracking, theft prevention, recalls, and registration accuracy.

Unlike earlier Mopar VIN systems, every position within the VIN has a specific purpose and follows a standardized structure.

This format applies to:

• Chrysler vehicles
• Dodge vehicles
• Plymouth vehicles
• Jeep vehicles
• Eagle vehicles
• Ram trucks
• SRT vehicles
• Modern Dodge muscle cars
• Modern Mopar performance vehicles

Popular examples include:

• Dodge Charger
• Dodge Challenger
• Ram 1500
• Jeep Wrangler
• Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Dodge Viper
• Chrysler 300
• Dodge Durango
• Plymouth Laser
• Eagle Talon

Understanding the Modern Mopar VIN Format

Example VIN

2C3CDXCT0NH123456

The VIN is divided into three primary sections:

Let's decode each section.

Characters 1-3: World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI)

The first three characters identify the manufacturer and country of origin.

Common Modern Mopar WMI Codes

Example

2C3CDXCT0NH123456

The first three characters:

2C3

Identify a Chrysler Corporation passenger vehicle manufactured in Canada.

Characters 4-8: Vehicle Description Section

The next five positions provide detailed information about the vehicle.

These characters may identify:

• Vehicle model
• Body style
• Series
• Restraint system
• Engine type
• Drivetrain configuration

Unlike earlier VIN eras, these positions vary significantly by model and year.

Example

2C3CDXCT0NH123456

Characters 4-8:

CDXCT

May identify:

• Charger model
• Four-door sedan
• Performance trim level
• Specific restraint system
• HEMI V8 engine configuration

Because Chrysler updates these codes regularly, they must be interpreted using year-specific decoding charts.

Character 9: Check Digit

The ninth character is the check digit.

Purpose of the Check Digit

The check digit is not used to identify vehicle features.

Instead, it is mathematically calculated from the other VIN positions and helps verify that the VIN is valid.

Examples may include:

• 0
• 1
• 5
• 8
• X

Example

2C3CDXCT0NH123456

The ninth character is:

0

This is the VIN's validation digit.

Character 10: Model Year

The tenth character identifies the model year.

Modern Year Code Chart

Example

2C3CDXCT0NH123456

The tenth character:

N

Identifies a 2022 model year vehicle.

Character 11: Assembly Plant

The eleventh character identifies where the vehicle was assembled.

Common Mopar Assembly Plant Codes

Example

2C3CDXCT0NH123456

The eleventh character:

H

Identifies Windsor Assembly in Ontario, Canada.

Characters 12-17: Production Sequence Number

The final six digits represent the vehicle's unique serial number.

Example

2C3CDXCT0NH123456

The final six digits:

123456

Identify the specific vehicle built during production.

No two vehicles from the same model year and plant will share the same sequence number.

Complete VIN Decoding Example

VIN

2C3CDXCT0NH123456

Breakdown

Result

This VIN identifies a Chrysler Corporation vehicle manufactured in Canada, built for the 2022 model year at the Windsor Assembly Plant.

Decoding Modern Dodge Challenger VINs

Many readers specifically search for Challenger VIN decoding.

Example

2C3CDZBT6PH123456

Potential information may include:

• Dodge Challenger
• Coupe body style
• Specific trim level
• Engine family
• 2023 model year
• Brampton Assembly Plant

Modern Challengers, Chargers, and SRT vehicles often use VDS codes that identify engines ranging from the Pentastar V6 to the supercharged Hellcat and Demon platforms.

Decoding Modern Ram Truck VINs

Ram trucks use the same 17-character VIN structure but often include additional information within positions 4-8.

These positions may identify:

• 1500, 2500, or 3500 series
• Cab style
• Bed length
• Engine type
• Drive configuration
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating

This makes VIN decoding especially useful when purchasing used trucks.

Decoding Modern Jeep VINs

Jeep VINs can reveal:

• Wrangler model
• Gladiator model
• Grand Cherokee series
• Engine type
• Drivetrain configuration
• Assembly plant

Because many Jeep models share similar appearances, VIN decoding is often the easiest way to verify original equipment.

What the VIN Does Not Tell You

Even though modern VINs contain more information than any previous Mopar VIN system, they still do not reveal everything.

The VIN typically does not identify:

• Paint color
• Interior color
• Individual option packages
• Wheel package
• Audio system upgrades
• Special appearance packages

For those details, consult:

• Factory build sheet
• Door certification label
• Dealer invoice
• Vehicle equipment reports
• OEM service records

Why Modern VIN Decoding Matters

Whether you're purchasing a used Challenger, verifying a HEMI-powered Ram truck, researching a Jeep Wrangler, or restoring an early Viper, understanding the 17-character VIN allows you to quickly verify the vehicle's identity and factory specifications.

Because this VIN format remains in use today, learning to decode it provides the foundation for understanding virtually every Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicle built from 1981 onward.

Where To Find The VIN On Mopar Vehicles

The VIN location varies depending on the vehicle's production year.

1946-1965 Mopars

Early Mopar vehicles often display the serial number or VIN on:

• Driver side door pillar
• Driver side hinge pillar
• Firewall identification plate
• Vehicle data plate

1966-1980 Mopars

Most muscle car era Mopars have the VIN located:

• On the driver side dashboard near the windshield
• On the driver side door jamb
• On the vehicle certification label

Additional VIN stampings may also appear on:

• Radiator support
• Trunk lip
• Fender tag
• Engine block
• Transmission case

1981-Present Mopars

Modern Mopar vehicles typically display the VIN:

• At the base of the windshield on the driver side
• On the driver side door jamb certification label
• Within vehicle registration documents
• On insurance paperwork

Checking multiple VIN locations helps verify vehicle authenticity.

What Is a Matching Numbers Mopar?

A matching numbers Mopar is a vehicle that retains the major components installed at the factory when it was originally built.

For many collectors, this typically means:

• Original VIN plate
• Original engine block
• Original transmission
• Original body identification tags

Why Matching Numbers Matter

Matching numbers vehicles are often more valuable because they verify originality.

This is especially important for highly collectible Mopars such as:

• 426 HEMI cars
• 440 Six Pack cars
• AAR 'Cudas
• Challenger T/A models
• Super Bees
• Daytonas
• Superbirds

How To Verify Matching Numbers

Verification may involve comparing:

• VIN plate
• Fender tag
• Broadcast sheet
• Engine stampings
• Transmission stampings

For rare muscle cars, matching numbers documentation can have a significant impact on collector value.

Final Thoughts on Mopar VIN Decoding

From the serial numbers used on postwar Chrysler, Dodge, Plymouth, and DeSoto vehicles to the modern 17-character VIN system used today, Mopar vehicle identification has evolved significantly over the decades.

Understanding how to decode a Mopar VIN can help verify a vehicle's authenticity, identify its original specifications, support restoration projects, and uncover valuable information about its production history. Whether you're researching a classic muscle car, evaluating a project vehicle, or verifying a modern Mopar, the VIN is one of the most important tools available.

Find Mopar Restoration And Performance Parts At JEGS

Whether you're restoring a matching numbers Mopar muscle car, upgrading a classic Dodge truck, or building a modern HEMI-powered project, understanding your vehicle's VIN is often the first step toward selecting the correct parts and components.

At www.jegs.com, you'll find restoration parts, performance upgrades, engine components, ignition systems, fuel system parts, suspension upgrades, wheels, tires, and drivetrain components from trusted manufacturers including Holley, Edelbrock, MSD Ignition, COMP Cams, Flowmaster, and many more.

If you need help finding parts for your Mopar project, the JEGS Tech Specialists can help you identify the right components based on your vehicle's year, model, engine, and intended use.