Vehicle Identification Number

IDENTIFICATION CODES
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit combination of letters and numbers. The VIN is stamped on a metal tab riveted to the instrument panel, top upper left of the dash. The VIN number is also found on the vehicle certification (VC) label.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI):

The first three vehicle identification number (VIN) positions are the world manufacturer identifier.
- 1FM - Ford Motor Company, USA, multi-purpose vehicle
- 5LM - Lincoln, USA, multi-purpose vehicle

Brake Type And Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):

The fourth VIN position is the vehicle brake type and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) code. All vehicle use hydraulic brakes.
- E - 6,001-7,000 pounds GVWR with driver and front passenger air bags and driver and front passenger side impact air curtains
- F - 7,001-8,000 pounds GVWR with driver and front passenger air bags and driver and front passenger side impact air curtains
- R - 6,001-7,000 pounds GVWR with driver and front passenger air bags
- P - 7,001-8,000 pounds GVWR with driver and front passenger air bags

Vehicle Line And Series:

Positions 5 through 7 indicate vehicle line and series.
- U15 - Expedition, 4x2, XLT
- U16 - Expedition, 4x4, XLT
- U17 - Expedition, 4x2, Eddie Bauer
- U18 - Expedition, 4x4, Eddie Bauer
- U27 - Navigator, 4x2
- U28 - Navigator, 4x4

Engine Type:

The eighth VIN position is the engine displacement and number of cylinders.
- L - 5.4L, SOHC, EFI, 2V, V-8, gas
- R - 5.4L, DOHC, EFI, 4V, gas
- W - 4.6L, SOHC, EFI, V-8, gas

Computer-Generated Check Digit:

The ninth VIN position is a government assigned, computer-generated check digit.

Model Year:

The tenth VIN position is the model year code.
- 3 - 2003

Assembly Plant:

The eleventh VIN position is the assembly plant code.
- L - Michigan Truck (Wayne, Michigan)

Vehicle Build Sequence:

The last six VIN positions are an alphanumeric code for the vehicle build sequence. This is also the vehicle serial and warranty number.
- A0000I-C99999 - Ford Division
- J00001-L99999 - Lincoln Division