Free 2023 Ford Explorer VIN Decoder

How to decode a 2023 Ford Explorer VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 2023 Ford Explorer VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code that identifies the manufacturer of a vehicle, using a standardized system to convey specific information. This code is found at the beginning of a vehicle’s identification number or VIN. For instance, Ford Explorers produced in 2023 bear the WMI “1FM”, denoting that they are manufactured by the Ford Motor Company, located in Dearborn, Michigan, United States. The designation of these vehicles as Multipurpose Passenger Vehicles (MPVs) is also encapsulated within the VIN, highlighting their versatility and purpose. Such identifiers allow for easy recognition and understanding of a vehicle’s origin, manufacturer, and type, underscoring the global system’s effectiveness in streamlining vehicle identification.

List of WMI Codes for a 2023 Ford Explorer

WMI: 1FM

• Model Years Covered: 1991-2024
• Example VIN: 1FMSK8KH0PGA00050
• 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 2023 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 2023 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 2023 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 2023 Ford Explorer VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 2023 Ford Explorer VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 2023 Ford Explorer Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 2023 Ford Explorer

The final 6 characters in a 2023 Ford Explorer’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 2023 Ford Explorer VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, indicating that the vehicle is likely a 2023 model, potentially providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Engine Specifications: The VIN specifies the engine type as a 3.3-liter, 4-cylinder engine from Ford, offering details on displacement and engine model (Ti-VCT), which can be crucial for understanding performance and compatibility.
• Body Class and Drive Type: Information about the vehicle being a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) with 4WD (4-Wheel Drive) encoded, highlighting the vehicle’s body style and driving capabilities.
• Safety Features: The VIN indicates a range of standard safety features such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Front Air Bag Locations for the 1st row (Driver and Passenger), signifying the vehicle’s commitment to safety.
• Fuel Type and Electrification Level: It details the primary fuel type as gasoline with a secondary electric system, categorizing the vehicle as a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), which signifies its fuel efficiency and environmental impact.
• Advanced Technology: The vehicle comes standard with advanced technology features like Backup Camera, Blind Spot Warning (BSW), and Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA), illustrating the modern capabilities of the vehicle for enhancing the driving experience and safety.
• Manufacturing Information: Production specifics, such as the manufacturing plant located in Chicago, United States, are provided, offering insight into the vehicle’s production origin, which can be important for recall information and manufacturer standards.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 2023 Ford Explorer