Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-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. If the VIN plate requires replacement, authorized dealers must contact their respective regional office.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | World manufacturer identifier (WMI) |
| 2 | Restraint type code |
| 3 | Vehicle line and series code |
| 4 | Engine code |
| 5 | VIN check digit |
| 6 | Model year code |
| 7 | Assembly plant code |
| 8 | Production sequence number |
The first 3 vehicle identification number (VIN) positions are the world manufacturer identifier (WMI) code.
- 2FA - Ford Motor Company of Canada Ltd., passenger car
- 2ME - Ford Motor Company of Canada Ltd., Mercury, passenger car
The fourth VIN position is the vehicle restraint system type code.
- H - Active safety belts - all positions, driver and front passenger air bags and driver and front passenger side impact air bags
Positions 5 through 7 indicate vehicle line, series and body type.
- P70 - Crown Victoria (Long wheelbase)
- P71 - Crown Victoria (Police Interceptor)
- P72 - Crown Victoria (Base fleet vehicle)
- P74 - Crown Victoria (LX 4-door)
- M70 - Grand Marquis (Long wheelbase)
- M75 - Grand Marquis (LS 4-door)
The eighth VIN position is the engine displacement and number of cylinders code.
- W - 4.6L EFI (SOHC), 8-cylinder, gasoline
- V - 4.6L EFI (SOHC), 8-cylinder, flex fuel
The ninth VIN position is the check digit code (0-9).
The tenth VIN position is the model year code.
- 9 - 2009
The eleventh VIN position is the assembly plant code.
- X - St. Thomas, Talbotville, Ontario (Canada)
The last 6 VIN positions are the production sequence number. These 6 digits also are used as the vehicle serial and warranty number. The serial number can also be found on the engine block, transmission and frame.
- Ford - 100001-599999
- Mercury - 600001-999999
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.