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
The first 3 VIN positions are the world manufacturer identifier (WMI).
- 1ZV - Ford, USA, passenger car
The fourth VIN position is the vehicle restraint system type code.
- F - Active safety belts, all positions - driver and front passenger air bags
- H - Active safety belts, all positions - driver and front passenger air bags with side impact air bags
Positions 5 through 7 indicate vehicle line, series and body type.
- T80 - 2-door coupe, base
- T82 - 2-door coupe, GT
- T84 - 2-door convertible, base
- T85 - 2-door convertible, GT
- T88 - 2-door coupe, GT500
- T89 - 2-door convertible, GT500
The eighth VIN position is the engine displacement and number of cylinders code.
- H - 4.6L, OHC, 3-valve, EFI, 8-cylinder
- N - 4.0L, SOHC, EFI, 6-cylinder
- S - 5.4L, DOHC, 4-valve, EFI, supercharged, 8-cylinder
The ninth VIN position is a government-assigned, computer-generated 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.
- 5 - Auto Alliance International (AAI) - Flat Rock, Michigan (USA)
The last 6 VIN positions are the production sequence number. This number is also used as the vehicle serial and warranty number.
The serial number can also be found on the engine block and transmission.
- 100001-599999
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.