Decoding Tesla Model 3 VIN

Due to the start of Model 3 production, Tesla sent a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which makes decoding its vehicle identification numbers (VIN) a piece of cake.

Thanks to Teslarati, we now have the full explanation regarding how to decode the Model 3 VIN, or any Tesla VIN. Yes, you can use the same format to figure out details about the Model S and X. Teslarati reported that a white Tesla Model 3 release candidate's VIN ended in 000316. This was assumed to mean that Tesla has built over 316 release candidates thus far. Tesla's letter to the NHTSA reads (via Teslarati):

“Tesla intends to begin regular production of a new carline, the Model 3, starting July 2017. Model 3 will be released into commerce as a MY2017 vehicle and pursuant to the requirements of § 565.26 Reporting requirements, Tesla Inc. hereby is submitting the updated VIN decoding information for MY2017 vehicles. The submission adds a new vehicle line (Model 3) to its already existing MY2017 vehicles lines (Model S and Model X).”

Every Tesla vehicle has a VIN number beginning with 5YJ. All automakers have their own unique World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI). The fourth digit tells which model it is. So for instance, 5YJ3 is a Model 3 and 5YJS is a Model S. The entire VIN contains a total of 17 digits. Below is the decoder in order of digits:

1-3: WMI as explained above

4: specific model; S, X, 3

5: Body Type and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

A - hatchback, five door, left-hand drive

C - MPV, five door, left-hand drive, Class E

E - sedan, four door, left-hand drive

6: Vehicle Restraint System

1, A, B, and D - all have various Type 2 manual seat belts with front airbags, PODS, side inflatable restraints, knee airbags

7: Fuel Type

E - electric

8: Motor/Drive Unit

1 - single motor, standard 3 - single motor, performance 2 - dual motor, standard 4 - dual motor, performance A - single motor, standard B - dual motor, standard

9: check digit to be assigned by manufacturer pursuant to 49 CFR § 565.6(c)

10: model year

H - 2017

11: assembly plant

F - Fremont, CA

12-17: serial number

Source: Teslarati