Free 1997 Dodge Ram VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1997 Dodge Ram VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1997 Dodge Ram VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code designated to every vehicle manufacturer globally, helping to identify key characteristics of a vehicle, including its make and country of origin. Specifically, for the 1997 Dodge Ram, the WMI can be “1B7” for models manufactured by FCA US LLC in Auburn Hills, Michigan, United States, or “3B7” for those produced by Chrysler de Mexico Toluca in Santa Fe, Mexico City, Mexico. Vehicle types designated under these WMIs are trucks, emblematic of the rugged and durable nature of the Dodge Ram. The model years covered under these identifiers range from 1994 to 2002, underscoring a period of production where the distinct identity and specifications of this truck were standardized across North America. This system ensures each Dodge Ram has a traceable code, affirming its authenticity and origin to stakeholders.

List of WMI Codes for a 1997 Dodge Ram

WMI: 1B7

• Model Years Covered: 1994-2002
• Example VIN: 1B7HF16Y0VS166941
• Manufacturer Name: FCA US LLC
• Vehicle Type: Truck
• City: Auburn Hills
• State or Province: Michigan
• Country: United States

WMI: 3B7

• Model Years Covered: 1994-2002
• Example VIN: 3B7KC23W1VM555104
• Manufacturer Name: Chrysler de Mexico Toluca
• Vehicle Type: Truck
• City: Santa Fe
• State or Province: Mexico City
• Country: Mexico

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

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 Ram 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 Ram VIN — Year Code

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

Known 1997 Dodge Ram Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1997 Dodge Ram

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

Check your Dodge Ram’s VIN below:

What info can a 1997 Dodge Ram VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year as 1997, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Vehicle Specifications: The details include specific information about a 1997 Ram 2500 Pickup, featuring a 5.9L In-Line 6 Cylinder Diesel engine with turbocharging and an intercooler, highlighting the vehicle’s powertrain configuration.
• Body Class and Drive Type: The VIN identifies the body class as a Pickup with a 4x2 drive type, providing insights into the vehicle’s design and drive system.
• Fuel Type: The primary fuel type for this vehicle is Diesel, which can be essential information for understanding fuel efficiency and environmental impact.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: The vehicle falls within Class 2G, with a gross vehicle weight rating range of 8,001 - 9,000 lb (3,629 - 4,082 kg), giving an idea of its size and capacity.
• Plant Information: Manufacturing details, such as the assembly plant’s location in Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico, under the Saltillo Assembly company name, provide insight into the vehicle’s origin.
• Engine Details: Engine specifications such as displacement (5900 CC or 360.04 CI) and the presence of a turbocharger are critical for understanding performance characteristics.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1997 Dodge Ram