How to Break Down a '97 Toyota Tacoma VIN #

This is how to decode the VIN on a 1997 Toyota Tacoma.

A Tacoma is a compact pick-up truck manufactured by Toyota. A "VIN" is a vehicle identification number, which is an 18-digit number with letters and numbers. All modern vehicles must have a unique VIN assigned to them and posted somewhere within the vehicle. In some vehicles, they are located in the dashboard and visible through the windshield. VIN numbers in Toyotas built after 1989 are located inside the driver's door, usually on the metal opposite the door hinge, lower to the ground.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Open the driver side door.

   • 2

     Locate the VIN card. It will typically be found inside the vehicle, near the latch where the door meets the frame when it shuts.

   • 3

     Decode the VIN. Each digit denotes a certain piece of information, as follows:

     1: Country

     2: Manufacturer

     3: Type

     4 and 5: Body type

     6: Engine series

     7: Model

     8: Model code

     9: Check digit

     10: Year

     11: Assembly plant

     12 through 18: Sequential production number

     For a description of what the specific digits of your VIN mean (see Resources).