Free 2012 Ford Explorer VIN Decoder

How to decode a 2012 Ford Explorer VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 2012 Ford Explorer VIN

WMI, short for World Manufacturer Identifier, is a unique code assigned to every vehicle manufacturer to identify the make and origin of motor vehicles. For the 2012 Ford Explorer, the WMI “1FM” distinctly indicates that it was produced by Ford Motor Company, based in Dearborn, Michigan, United States. This identifier not only sheds light on the manufacturer but also specifies the vehicle type, in this case, indicating a multipurpose passenger vehicle. Specifically crafted for models spanning from 1991 to 2024, the WMI provides a standardized method to recognize various aspects of the vehicle, including its geographical production location. Through this coding system, the automotive industry ensures a uniform identification process for vehicles worldwide.

List of WMI Codes for a 2012 Ford Explorer

WMI: 1FM

• Model Years Covered: 1991-2024
• Example VIN: 1FMHK8F80CGA00466
• Manufacturer Name: Ford Motor Company
• Vehicle Type: Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle (MPV)
• City: Dearborn
• State or Province: Michigan
• Country: United States

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a 2012 Ford Explorer 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 2012 Ford Explorer:

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 2012 Ford Explorer 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 2012 Ford Explorer VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 2012 Ford Explorer VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 2012 Ford Explorer Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 2012 Ford Explorer

The final 6 characters in a 2012 Ford Explorer’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 2012 Ford Explorer VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicles model year being the year 2012, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Doors: A VIN can specify the body class. For the 2012 Ford Explorer, this may indicate a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV), categorizing it as a Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle suitable for a variety of needs.
• Engine Type: The VIN details include that it has a V-Shaped engine configuration, with a displacement of 3.5 liters or 213.58310433156 cubic inches, and it is manufactured by Ford. This engine offers a power output starting from 290 horsepower, giving an idea of the vehicle’‘’s performance capabilities.
• Drive Type: The drive type can also be identified from the VIN. In the case of the 2012 Ford Explorer, it is a 4WD (4-Wheel Drive) drive type, which can help in understanding the vehicle’s handling characteristics and drive configuration.
• Brake System: The VIN information indicates that this Ford Explorer utilizes a hydraulic brake system, highlighting its capability and safety features related to braking.
• Safety Features: Safety features identified through the VIN include front airbags located in the first row for both driver and passenger, as well as side airbags available in the first, second, and third rows, ensuring protection for all occupants, potentially enhancing the vehicle’s safety credentials.
• Fuel Type: The primary fuel type for this vehicle is gasoline, which is a common choice for SUVs, offering convenience in fuel availability and a known fuel economy.
• Manufacturing Details: The VIN provides information that the vehicle was manufactured in Chicago, Illinois, United States, which gives context about its production location, influencing parts availability and service options.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 2012 Ford Explorer