Free 1997 Dodge Dakota VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1997 Dodge Dakota VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1997 Dodge Dakota VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code consisting of the first three alphanumeric characters of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which identifies the vehicle’s manufacturer, country of origin, and vehicle type. In the example of the 1997 Dodge Dakota, the WMI “1B7” signifies a truck manufactured by FCA US LLC, located in Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States. This system allows for precise identification and tracking of vehicles globally. Each element of the WMI provides specific information, helping in the classification and registration of vehicles. The inclusion of such identifiers aids in ensuring the traceability and authentication of vehicles on an international scale.

List of WMI Codes for a 1997 Dodge Dakota

WMI: 1B7

• Model Years Covered: 1987-2002
• Example VIN: 1B7FL26Y1VS185701
• Manufacturer Name: FCA US LLC
• Vehicle Type: Truck
• City: Auburn Hills
• State or Province: Michigan
• Country: United States

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a 1997 Dodge Dakota VIN

These characters correspond to components like:

• Engine type
• Transmission
• Model or trim
• Body style
• Gross vehicle weight range

Below find the known vehicle descriptor codes for a 1997 Dodge Dakota:

Auto manufacturers have some discretion to decide how they want to code this section, but its contents and decoded results are generally consistent.

Character 9 is the “check digit” in a 1997 Dodge Dakota VIN.

Based on a formula developed by the US Department of Transportation, it helps reduce fraud by ensuring the validity of the VIN.

10th Character in the 1997 Dodge Dakota VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 1997 Dodge Dakota VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 1997 Dodge Dakota Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1997 Dodge Dakota

The final 6 characters in a 1997 Dodge Dakota’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 1997 Dodge Dakota VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, suggesting it could be a 1997 model, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Body Class: The VIN specifies the vehicle as a Pickup Truck, offering insights into the body type and primary usage.
• Engine Type: The engine is characterized by its V-Shaped configuration, 8 cylinders, and a displacement of 5.2 liters or 5200.0 CC, highlighting its power and size.
• Fuel Type: The vehicle is primarily powered by gasoline, which was common for trucks from that era, emphasizing its fuel requirements.
• Drive Type: The VIN indicates a 4x2 drive type, suggesting it may be designed for standard driving conditions rather than off-road capabilities.
• Brake System: It is equipped with a Hydraulic brake system, which is crucial for vehicle safety and performance.
• Manufacturing Information: The vehicle was produced in Warren, Michigan by the Dodge City Assembly, providing insight into the vehicle’s origin and assembling company, reflecting on its manufacturing quality.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1997 Dodge Dakota

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