Vehicle Identification Codes

IDENTIFICATION CODES

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, top upper left of the dash. The VIN number is also found on the Vehicle Certification (VC) label.

World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI):

Vehicle Identification Number
The first three vehicle identification number (VIN) positions are the world manufacturer identifier (WMI).
^ 1LN - Lincoln, USA, passenger car
^ 1LJ - Lincoln, USA, incomplete vehicle
^ 1L1 - Lincoln, USA, Limousine

Restraint Code:

The fourth VIN position is the vehicle restraint system type code.
^ L - Active safety belts - all positions, driver and front passenger air bags
^ F - Active safety belts - all positions, driver and front passenger second generation air bags
^ H - Active safety belts - all positions, driver and front passenger air bags with driver and front passenger side impact air bags

Vehicle Line And Series Code:

Positions 5 through 7 indicate vehicle line and series code.
^ M81 - Executive Series
^ M82 - Signature Series
^ M83 - Cartier Series
^ M84 - Executive (LWB)
^ M85 - Cartier (LWB)

Engine Code:

The eighth VIN position is the engine displacement and number of cylinders code.
^ W - 4.6L EFI (SOHC), EFI, eight cylinder

Check Digit Code:

The ninth VIN position is a computer generated check digit code (0-9).

Model Year Code:

The tenth VIN position is the model year code.
^ 1-2001

Assembly Plant Code:

The eleventh VIN position is the assembly plant code.
^ S - Pilot Plant, Allen Park, Michigan (USA)
^ Y - Wixom, Michigan (USA)

Production Sequence Number:

The last six VIN positions are the production sequence number. These numbers determine the vehicle build order and provide warranty information.