How To Decode 10 Digit VIN Codes?

Retrieving valuable information for pre-1981 cars can be very challenging. Need to decode a 10-digit VIN code? Our classic car VIN decoder is the key to unlocking the history of any classic car with a 10-digit VIN. Access accurate specifications and trace the history of any classic car using the 10-digit VIN.

How Our 10-Digit VIN Decoder Works?

What you Should Know about Classic Cars?

Market Growth

Statista projections indicate that the global classic-car market will grow from $30.9 billion in 2020 to $43.4 billion by 2024. A key factor driving the increased value is the scarcity of these vehicles.

Market growth api
classic car value

Investment and Values

Investing in classic cars doesn’t always go as planned. In 2018, a 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO fetched $70 million in a private sale, and a 1962 version sold at auction for $48.4 million. So, don’t assume your car will increase in value after purchase.

Vehicle Research Matters

When buying a classic car, remember that its value isn’t guaranteed. Various factors come into play. Conduct thorough research to ensure you’re paying a reasonable price.
Researching a classic vehicle in terms of verifying its full specifications, features and history can be very daunting. This is due to the inability of the modern decoders to support VIN lengths that are generally less than 17 digits.

This challenge, however, is seeing the end of its era with the introduction of the ClassicDecoder VIN decoder tool specially developed to ease the stress and frustration that comes with decoding classic car VINs

classic car vin decoder

What Information Can I Get from Decoding a 10-digit VIN?

While our free VIN decoder can provide details on the vehicle specifications, our paid check  can offer valuable insights into any classic automobile’s history to ensure its authenticity and safety. The information include:
Vehicle Specifications

Verify year, make, model, engine, fuel type and more.

Title History

shows any issues or whether the vehicle was assembled or rebuilt.

Sales history

Verify if the vehicle was listed online for sale at any time

Lien and loan records

Know if there was any outstanding payment on the car.

Accident Records

Check for any accidents and the level of damage.

Theft Records

Check for any records of theft and theft recovery.

Mileage records

Know how many miles the vehicle has covered and more

Auction Records and Photos (When available)

Know if the car has been to an auction, and the auction history with photos of the car. Seeing is believing.

The Benefits of Classic VIN Decoding and Lookup

Classic VIN decoding provides valuable insights for vintage car enthusiasts and collectors. Here are five benefits of using this service:

  1. Authenticity Verification: Classic cars are and command high prices. Buyers can verify authenticity through VIN checks to avoid fraud or buying a stolen unit.
  2. Detailed History: A classic car VIN lookup reveals essential details about the vehicle’s past. Knowing this information helps trace ownership and validate the car’s originality.
  3. Accident and Damage Insights: Uncover any reported accidents or damage in the vehicle’s history. Empower yourself to make informed decisions and assess the condition and potential risks associated with the classic car.
  4. Peace of Mind: Transparency is essential during the buying process. By offering insights into the vehicle’s background and  history, it ensures peace of mind and confidence in your purchase.
  5. Estimated Value: The knowledge of a vehicle history can help enthusiasts building their own collection of exciting classic cars to outline the estimated market value of the vehicle.

Sample Report: A 10-Digit VIN Number

Here is a detailed report breakdown for a 1950 Chevrolet 3100 (VIN: AHCA340510). The major events and records include the following:

Chevrolet 1950
classic car vehicle history report

Before you part ways with hard earned cash, get valuable Classic Car vehicle history information. ClassicDecoder History Reports  show you the vehicle brand title information, any accident records, if it is stolen,  and many more.

Unlock the past records before you buy with our check VIN number tool.

How to decode a 10-digit Vehicle Identification Number?

Decoding a 10-digit VIN involves understanding the significance of each digit and identifying specific characters. Here, we will explore the decoding process to decode the information within a 10-digit VIN of a 1964 Oldsmobile (824F008101)

  • First Character (8) codes for the Engine. This means it’s an 8-cylinder engine.
  • Second Character (2) codes for the series. The automobile series is a F85 Cutlass.
  • Third Character (4) represents the year model. In this case, it’s a 1964 model. Note: Standard or Classic VINs do not include the letters I (i), O (o), Q (q), U (u), Z (z) or 0 (zero) for model year identification.
  • Fourth Character (F) codes for the assembly plant. This automobile was assembled in Fremont, CA.
  • The last 6 characters (008101) represent the production number.
  • The VIN decoder developed by ClassicDecoder specializes in decoding 10-digit VINs. This tool provides comprehensive and accurate vehicle information to help you make an informed decision when buying a used classic car or finding the correct parts.

    Where can I find the 10-digit VIN on a classic car?

    The 10-digit VIN can typically be found in the following places:

    where to find vin number
  • On the driver’s side dashboard or door frame.
  • On the vehicle’s title and registration documents.
  • On the plate on the left front door body hinge pillar post.
  • Evolve with Classic Car VIN Decoder App

    Generating results faster than you can ever imagine
    Get instant access to accurate vehicle information at your fingertips. Easily verify vehicle specifications and details for free, uncover vehicle history and get classic window stickers on the go without breaking the bank.

    The VIN Year chart for Standard VINs: What is it?

    Since 1980 when VIN structure was standardized, VIN year charts have been playing a crucial role in decoding Vehicle year.

    They are comprehensive documents that list model year codes and corresponding letters or numbers found in VINs. They serve as a valuable reference for accurately decoding the year of an automobile based on its VIN.

    Here, we present the VIN Year Chart from 1980 – 2024 

    Although there  is no VIN year chart for classic VINs, there are online resources and databases like ClassicDecoder that specialize in decoding 10-digit VINs, providing access to accurate VIN decoding and vehicle history service. 

    Build Sheets for Accurate Classic Car Evaluation

    Whether selling or buying a classic car, verifying the original features, engine and other build details can help you make an informed decision about the classic car – enhancing accurate classic car valuation. You can easily access all these details in the Classic Build Sheet.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Our 10 digit VIN decoder provides essential details, including the car’s year, make, model, engine information, transmission, fuel type and capacity, drive type, body measurements, tire tread specifications, axle type, and the number of doors and gears.

    Yes, our vehicle history report includes available records for 10-digit VINs, such as title history, sales history, lien/loan records, auction data, odometer readings, accident history, and any reported theft.

    Many classic cars produced before 1981 used VINs shorter than the current 17-digit standard. A 10-digit VIN is common for certain classic car makes and models and can easily be decoded using our 10 digit VIN number decoder.

    Yes, our 10 digit VW VIN number decoder provides details such as engine specs, transmission type, and fuel capacity, allowing you to check if the car matches its original specifications.

    Our vehicle history report only includes title and sales history and not the previous owners, helping you trace previous sales records and verify the authenticity of the title.