Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN codes)/Subaru/VIN Codes


 * NOTE: This information appears to not conform with current information
 * Note: This information is incorrect for 4th Generation JDM Legacys.

Subaru uses a 17-character VIN format and code for vehicles sold in the United States. These rules also largely apply to the Saab 9-2x, a badge-engineered Subaru Impreza WRX wagon.

Subaru VIN code
The following sample is the sequence and meaning of each character in the Subaru VIN:

The above serial number describes the following vehicle built in Japan by Fuji Heavy Industries:

1996 Subaru Alcyone SVX, 3.3L EG33 engine, AWD 4EAT transmission, manual seat belts with driver / passenger airbags. The 216th vehicle produced during the 1996 model year.

Subaru WMIs
The WMI is specified in the  first three  characters of the Subaru VIN MPV means Multi-Purpose Vehicle (station wagon, SUV, van or truck)

Line type
The line type is specified in the  fourth  character of the Subaru VIN

Body style
The body style is specified in the  fifth  character of the Subaru VIN *This section is incorrect for 4th Gen Outbacks

Engine type
The engine type is specified in the  sixth  character of the Subaru VIN

Model
The model is identified in the  seventh  character of the Subaru VIN

Restraint Type (Passenger) or Weight Class (MPV)
The restraint type, for passenger vehicles, or the weight class (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating), for MPVs, is specified in the  eighth  character of the Subaru VIN

The Check Digit is identified in the  ninth  character of the Subaru VIN

The Model Year is identified in the  tenth  character of the Subaru VIN

Letters began being reused in 2010.

Plants and transmission type
The assembly plant and transmission type is specified in the  eleventh  character of the Subaru VIN


 * SIA = Subaru-Isuzu of America (now known as Subaru of Indiana Automotive), Lafayette, Indiana
 * FHI = Fuji Heavy Industries, Gunma, Japan

The Vehicle Production Sequence number is specified in the  twelfth - seventeenth  characters of the Subaru VIN
 * 100000 and after - Legacy Sedan SUS (Jan 98 - May 98)
 * 210001 and after - Legacy Sedan
 * 310001 and after - Legacy Station Wagon
 * 410001 and after - Impreza Coupe; Ascent
 * 510001 and after - Impreza Sedan
 * 610001 and after - Legacy Station Wagon Outback
 * 710001 and after - Forester Wagon
 * 810001 and after - Impreza Sports Wagon