
How to Read a VIN Number Like a Pro
From understanding the VIN number breakdown to uncovering a vehicle’s history,...
Check vehicle information with Mazda VIN
Looking for the VIN?
Here is there you’ll find it:
Japanese automotive innovation began with Mazda's three-wheeled commercial vehicle production before transitioning to conventional passenger cars during the early 1960s. Seeking competitive differentiation, the company acquired NSU's revolutionary rotary engine technology, transforming it into championship-winning powerplants. The Cosmo model’s success established global distribution networks worldwide. Subsequent development included the legendary rotary-powered RX-7 alongside practical family transportation solutions. Ford partnership spanning the 1970s through the 2010s enabled collaborative vehicle development. Ford's 2015 divestiture redirected corporate focus toward strategic alliances with Toyota and Subaru. Contemporary Mazda emphasizes performance-oriented sedans and crossovers complemented by the MX-5 roadster.
Track-focused performance vehicles or family transportation solutions represent Mazda's diverse engineering capabilities. However, automotive purchases constitute significant financial commitments requiring comprehensive research. Professional Mazda VIN decoder technology transforms complex identification codes into accessible documentation for buyer understanding. Enhanced verification services include comprehensive vehicle reports detailing ownership histories and potential complications. Thorough authentication processes protect against problematic acquisitions involving salvage designations, outstanding liens, and undisclosed mechanical complications.
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is an identifier issued by Mazda on every vehicle they make. This code is more than a serial number. It includes information on where the car was built and the equipment fitted to it at the factory. This helps you identify obvious errors in sale listings, and spot modifications made since the car rolled off of the factory line.
For some buyers, this is useful for finding the exact model you want. For example, if you’re buying a Miata, there are certain gearbox and differential combinations that handle spirited driving better than others. For other buyers, it helps you identify changes that make the car seem more valuable than it really is. There’s a big difference between factory-installed equipment and parts added haphazardly to boost value.
Mazda applies the VIN to several parts of their cars and crossovers. You should be able to find this code in at least a few of these locations:
The VIN is also inside the cabin of most Mazdas. Slide the front passenger’s seat all the way back. You will see a small carpet flap sticking up. Tilt this flap back to uncover the VIN stamped into the floor.
Since VINs are unique for each vehicle, they’re also used on official records. You can find this code on titles, insurance paperwork, window stickers and service receipts.
Here’s what each of the digits in Mazda’s VIN numbers can tell you about a vehicle.
The first three digits of the VIN identify the area where the vehicle was built. There are 7 codes you’ll find on North American market Mazdas.
American-built Mazdas:
Code | Market |
---|---|
1YV, 4F2, 4F4 | Built by Ford |
1ZW | Built by AutoAlliance International |
JM1, JM3, JM7 | Japanese-built Mazdas |
JMZ | Mazdas built in Thailand. |
The 4th digit identifies the vehicle’s GVWR and safety equipment. The GVWR is the total combined weight of the vehicle and its maximum cargo capacity.
Code | Equipment |
---|---|
C | Side airbags, up to 5,000 lbs. |
D | Side airbags, 5,000 lbs. or more |
Y | Front airbags only, up to 5,000 lbs. |
Z | Front airbags only, 5,000 lbs. or more |
F, H, E, T and U | Also used in this position, but the meanings of these letters change frequently. |
The 4th and 5th digits together identify the vehicle model. However, the codes for the fifth digit change from year to year, making it hard to decode. It’s much easier to match the model to the VIN using our online decoder.
The 6th digit is the safety restraint system. A car with a “1” has side airbags, while a car with a “2” doesn’t.
The 7th digit is the body style. H, J, K, L, M and N are used for 5 door vehicles, including wagons, hatchbacks and SUVs. S, T, U, V, W and X are used for four-door sedans.
The 8th digit is the engine. Here are some of the codes used on recent models:
Code | Engine |
---|---|
1 | 3.0 V6 |
3 | 2.3 I4 turbo |
A | 3.7 V6 |
B | 2.0 I4 |
C | 3.5 V6 (Tribute) or 2.3 I4 (Mazda 6) |
С | 2.3 I4 |
D | 3.0 V6 |
F | 2.0 I4 |
Y | 3.5 V6 (CX-9) |
2.3 I4 | Z |
Digit 9 is used for error correction, and has no meaning by itself.
Digit 10 is the year. This cycles through 30 numbers and letters. For the 2023 model year, this character is “P”.
Code | Country | Code | Country | Code | Country | Code | Country |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
E | 1984 | R | 1994 | 4 | 2004 | E | 2014 |
F | 1985 | S | 1995 | 5 | 2005 | F | 2015 |
G | 1986 | T | 1996 | 6 | 2006 | G | 2016 |
H | 1987 | V | 1997 | 7 | 2007 | H | 2017 |
J | 1988 | W | 1998 | 8 | 2008 | J | 2018 |
K | 1989 | X | 1999 | 9 | 2009 | K | 2019 |
L | 1990 | Y | 2000 | A | 2010 | L | 2020 |
M | 1991 | 1 | 2001 | B | 2011 | M | 2021 |
N | 1992 | 2 | 2002 | C | 2012 | N | 2022 |
P | 1993 | 3 | 2003 | D | 2013 | P | 2023 |
Digit 11 is the manufacturing location. Most models are built in one of three plants:
Code | PALNT |
---|---|
0 | Hiroshima, Japan |
1 | Hofu, Japan |
K | Kansas City, Missouri |
The rest of the VIN is the car’s serial number.
What can you learn about a car using our search system? Here are some real world examples:
Mazda VIN numbers explained:
1st-3rd Characters: Manufacturer and region (e.g., "JM1" indicates Mazda, Japan).
4th-8th Characters: Vehicle details like body type and engine code.
9th Character: Check digit for authenticity.
10th Character: Model year (e.g., "L" for 2020).
11th Character: Manufacturing plant.
12th-17th Characters: Serial number or production sequence.
Yes, sharing your Mazda VIN is generally safe for legitimate purposes, such as obtaining a build sheet, checking specifications, or ordering parts. Avoid posting your chassis number publicly to reduce identity theft risks related to fake vehicle identification.
Use the first three characters of the VIN for identification. For instance, "JM1" indicates Mazda manufactured in Japan. This detail helps confirm specs by VIN, ensuring you receive region-specific information about your Mazda.
Yes, use a VIN decoder to access your Mazda’s specs by VIN. This includes optional features like sunroof, infotainment system, or advanced safety packages. A build sheet from your Mazda dealer can provide a full list of factory-installed features for precise identification.
A Mazda VIN clearly shows which CX model you have, helping tell apart similar ones like the CX-30, CX-5, and CX-50. The eighth digit in your VIN specifically marks the series, making it simple to identify your exact crossover model and avoid mix-ups.
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