Free Subaru VIN Decoder

How to decode a Subaru VIN

Characters 1-3 of a Subaru VIN

World Manufacturer Identifiers (WMIs) are unique codes assigned to every vehicle manufacturer to uniquely identify the make and model of vehicles. For Subaru vehicles, these codes help to offer specific data such as the manufacturer’s name, the type of vehicle, and the production location. Subaru has several WMIs, including 4S4 for multipurpose passenger vehicles made by Subaru of America, Inc. in Lafayette, Indiana, USA, covering model years from 1990 to 2024. The JF1 and JF2 codes are assigned to Subaru Corporation in Tokyo, Japan, distinguishing between passenger cars and multipurpose vehicles respectively, for a wide range of model years. These identifiers play a crucial role in vehicle registration, identification, and in certain cases, international trade.

List of WMI Codes for a Subaru

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a Subaru VIN

These characters correspond to components like:

• Engine type
• Transmission
• Model or trim
• Body style
• Gross vehicle weight range

Below find the most popular vehicle descriptor codes for a Subaru:

Auto manufacturers have some discretion to decide how they want to code this section, but its contents and decoded results are generally consistent.

Character 9 is the “check digit” in a Subaru VIN.

Based on a formula developed by the US Department of Transportation, it helps reduce fraud by ensuring the validity of the VIN.

10th Character in the Subaru VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the Subaru VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known Subaru Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a Subaru

The final 6 characters in a Subaru’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a Subaru VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN may reveal the vehicle’s model year as 2020, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Safety and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: This vehicle may come equipped with standard safety features such as Pre-Collision Systems, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Warning, and Lane Keeping Assistance, suggesting a focus on safety and advanced driving assistance technologies.
• Engine and Performance Specifications: The vehicle may feature a 2.4L turbocharged engine generating 260 horsepower, coupled with an All-Wheel Drive system and a Continuously Variable Transmission, pointing to its potential performance capabilities and drivetrain specifics.
• Comfort and Convenience Features: Features like a Backup Camera, Keyless Ignition, and LED Steering Responsive Headlights may be included, indicating a focus on modern convenience and driver assistance aspects to enhance the driving experience.
• Fuel Type and Efficiency: The vehicle may utilize gasoline as its primary fuel source, with a displacement of 2.4L, potentially offering insights into its engine size and fuel efficiency.
• Seating Capacity and Interior Space: The VIN suggests the availability of three seat rows and a total seating capacity for eight passengers, indicating ample interior space likely targeting family or multipurpose vehicle needs.
• Body Class and Type: Classified as a Sport Utility Vehicle/Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle, it possibly offers versatility in both passenger and cargo arrangements, catering to a range of user needs.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a Subaru