Free 1997 Toyota RAV4 VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1997 Toyota RAV4 VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1997 Toyota RAV4 VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code assigned to every vehicle manufacturer by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). This code forms the first three characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and provides specific information about the vehicle, including its manufacturer and place of production. For instance, Toyota Motor Corporation, a renowned vehicle manufacturer based in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, is assigned the WMI “JT3” for certain models of its vehicles. This code is often associated with multipurpose passenger vehicles, such as the 1997 Toyota RAV4, illustrating its use in identifying the make and type of vehicle. Knowing the WMI can offer insights into the vehicle’s origin and the manufacturer’s identity, aiding in vehicle registration, identification, and recall processes.

List of WMI Codes for a 1997 Toyota RAV4

WMI: JT3

• Model Years Covered: 1996-2000, 2002
• Example VIN: JT3XP10V1V0006056
• Manufacturer Name: Toyota Motor Corporation
• Vehicle Type: Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle (MPV)
• City: Toyota City
• State or Province: Aichi Prefecture
• Country: Japan

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a 1997 Toyota RAV4 VIN

These characters correspond to components like:

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

Below find the known vehicle descriptor codes for a 1997 Toyota RAV4:

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 1997 Toyota RAV4 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 1997 Toyota RAV4 VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 1997 Toyota RAV4 VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 1997 Toyota RAV4 Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1997 Toyota RAV4

The final 6 characters in a 1997 Toyota RAV4’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 1997 Toyota RAV4 VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal that the vehicle is from the year 1997, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Manufacturing Details: It hails from Toyota City, Aichi, Japan, specifically assembled at the Toyota Motor Corporation - Motomachi Plant, hinting at the origins and quality standards employed during its production.
• Vehicle Specifications: This particular model is a Toyota RAV4, showcasing engine details such as a 2.0L displacement, 120 horsepower, and equipped with a 4-cylinder In-Line engine crafted by Toyota, bearing the engine model 3S-FE.
• Engine and Performance: The VIN reveals an engine with Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) valve train design and a 4-stroke cycle, indicating a sophisticated engine structure designed for efficiency and performance.
• Fuel and Driving Dynamics: The primary fuel type for this vehicle is gasoline, complemented by a 4x2 drive type configuration, offering clues on its performance characteristics and potential fuel economy.
• Body and Design: Described as a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) with a unique body class and 2 doors, it gives an idea about the vehicle’s aesthetic and functional design tailored for specific uses, like off-road or family-oriented activities.
• Safety and Classification: With a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating falling into Class 1B (3,001 - 4,000 lb), it may offer insights into safety features and performance capabilities, based on standardized vehicle classifications and their corresponding regulatory expectations.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1997 Toyota RAV4

Source