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Chevrolet Silverado: VIN Decoder

Decoding your VIN is easy; here's how to learn the complete history of your Chevrolet Silverado 1500.

By Charlie Gaston - June 2, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (1999-present).

Just as all people have a past, so, too, does your Chevy Silverado 1500. From service and repair work to collisions, your truck has seen its fair share of tweaks, upgrades, modifications, overhauls, and general maintenance as well as minor and major repairs in its lifetime. While a previous owner may be hesitant to disclose your vehicle's complete history, you can find all the information that relates to your vehicle's crash and service history using a simple 17-digit code called a vehicle identification number or VIN. This code is stamped on a number of panels inside your vehicle and under the hood. Let's go through the process for locating the VIN in your Silverado 1500 and decoding it.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Locations

  • You can find your VIN on the driver's side of your vehicle at the base of your windshield.
  • It is also located in the doorjamb and a number of other locations.
  • For insurance purposes, you will need to provide your insurance carrier with your VIN.
  • Your local dealer or mechanic will also record the 17-digit number whenever you bring your truck in for repair or maintenance work.

Figure 1. VIN's provide vital information about your truck.

VIN Decoders Online

  • Most VIN decoders support 17-character VINs from 1981 to the present.
  • Receive your free report by inputting your VIN into the online VIN decoder and clicking "enter" or "okay."
  • Your dealer can help you to read your report, if you require additional help.
Figure 2. Online VIN decoders are usually free.

Number Positions

Your VIN provides key information about your vehicle, including, but not limited to:

  • Engine specifications
  • Available styles and trims
  • Exterior and interior colors
  • Interior, exterior and safety equipment
  • Vehicle features and technical specifications
  • Digits 1 to 3 reveal your manufacturer and the country of assembly
  • Digits 4 to 8 reveal vehicle attributes
  • Digit 9 verifies that your VIN is authentic
  • Digit 10 reveals your model year
  • Digits 11 reveals the plant in which your vehicle was manufactured
  • Digits 12 to 17 reveal your vehicle's unique ID
Figure 3. Learn your vehicle's history in complete detail.

Common Questions

Can I use my VIN to determine if my Silverado 1500 has been recalled?

Yes! Simply contact your local GM dealership and ask the technician to verify whether or not your vehicle has been recalled. Your dealer can tell you exactly which parts are being recalled and the repair(s) that will need to be made before your vehicle is once again considered safe to drive.

Does my VIN contain any private information about me, the vehicle owner?

Your VIN does not contain personal information about you or how much you paid for your vehicle. The number relates only to your vehicle and its history.

Can my VIN tell me which brand or section my vehicle belongs to?

Absolutely! General Motors has many brands. Your VIN can tell you exactly what brand or section to which your vehicle belongs.

What is a production number?

Created by the manufacturer, your production number is a unique 6-digit number that is used to identify your individual vehicle. You can find it by recovering the last 6 digits of your VIN.

Will my VIN tell me my front and rear axle ratios?

For this information, check your regular production option (RPO) codes, which are located in your glovebox.

Is there ever a scenario in which a vehicle will not contain a VIN?

Generally speaking, the majority of all vehicle on the market will have a VIN. However, there are some vehicles that do not. For example, vehicles produced before the 1950's will not contain a VIN.

Who regulates VINs?

The National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration regulates VINs.

Which online VIN decoder do you recommend?

Included in the Related Discussions below is a link to Chevrolet's unofficial online VIN decoder.

Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)

The Silverado 1500 has received several technical service bulletins related to the steering column and transmission. Before purchasing a new Silverado 1500, request a copy of the vehicle's service report to verify that any needed repairs have been made.

Related Discussions