Hi,

Just like the heading says, how does on figure out the engine build date from the Vin? I went to a couple vin decoder sites and I don't think the info was ascertained, maybe it was and I didn't know how to read it.

The last couple of cars I have been look at for purchase didn't work out for one reason or another. I might be too picky when shopping but I want to know as much about the cars before I purchase.

Thank you,
Griff

 

I might be wrong but I don't think you can get the engine number from the VIN.
But .... (and this may only apply to UK cars) - the engine number should be given in the service booklet that comes with the car.

 

You can't get the engine build date from the VIN. You can get it directly from the Engine Number.

For example, the Engine Number of my 2001 XK8 was NB0108171611. This decodes:

NB = Normally aspirated
01 = Year (2001)
08 = Month (August)
17 = Day
16 = Hour
11 = Minute

So my engine came off the line on 17th August 2001 at 16:11 in the afternoon.

A Friday car - I should have been more worried at the time!

Graham

 

Thank you for the education.

Griff

 

I have been able to get the engine build date by calling a dealership service department and giving them the VIN# and they look up the engine build date.

 

Which only is applicable if it has the original engine.
I had all that info but when I had to pull the motor I discovered it wasn't original but out of an older car.
So to play it safe I would check the # on the motor.

 

+1