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Home >> Ford >> 1997 >> Expedition 2WD V8-5.4L SOHC VIN L >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Application and ID >> Vehicle Identification Number
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Vehicle Identification Number






The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a seventeen digit combination of letters and numbers. The VIN is stamped on a metal tab riveted to the instrument panel where it can be read through the windshield on the driver side. The VIN is repeated on the Vehicle Certification (VC) label.

Vehicle specific VIN code information is provided in VIN Code Reference.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Code Reference






The first two VIN position codes indicate:
- 1F - Ford Motor Company, USA.
- 2F - Ford Motor Company of Canada, Ltd.
- 3F - Ford Motor Company of Mexico.

The third VIN position code is for the vehicle type:
- T - Completed vehicle.






The fourth VIN position is for the brake system and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) class. All brake systems are hydraulic. The codes are:
- A - Less than 3,000 pounds.
- B - 3,001 to 4,000 pounds.
- C - 4,001 to 5,000 pounds.
- D - 5,001 to 6,000 pounds.
- E - 6,001 to 7,000 pounds.
- F - 7,001 to 8,000 pounds.






The fifth, sixth, and seventh VIN positions are the codes for the model or line, series, chassis and cab or body type.






The eighth VIN position is for the engine displacement and number of cylinders. The codes are:
- 6 - 4.6L (280 cu.in.) SOHC V8 gasoline, EFI, Windsor Plant.
- L - 5.4L SOHC V8 gasoline.
- W - 4.6L (280 cu.in.) SOHC V8 gasoline, EFI, Romeo Plant.






The ninth VIN position is a check digit. The check digit for the 1997 model year is 5.






The tenth VIN position is the code for the model year. The codes are:
- V - 1997.
- W - 1998.
- X - 1999.
- Y - 2000.
- 1 - 2001.
- 2 - 2002.






The eleventh VIN position is the code for the assembly plant. The codes are:
- C - Ontario Truck; Oakville, Ontario, Canada.
- K - Kansas City; Claycomo, Missouri.
- L - Michigan Truck; Wayne, Michigan.
- N - Norfolk; Norfolk, Virginia.






The last six VIN positions are an alphanumeric code for the build sequence. This is also the serial and warranty number. The first vehicle built would be A00001 and the next would be A00002. After A99999, the next number would be B00001.
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