Free Saab 9000 VIN Decoder

How to decode a Saab 9000 VIN

Characters 1-3 of a Saab 9000 VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique three-letter code assigned to vehicle manufacturers around the globe to identify the make of a vehicle. This code forms the first section of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is a 17-character code used to provide specific information about a vehicle, including its production details. For example, the WMI YS3 is designated for Saab Cars North America, Inc., signaling that the vehicle has been manufactured by this specific company. This designation is crucial for vehicles produced in the model years 1989 and 1991 to 1998, indicating their origin and manufacturer. The WMI serves a pivotal role in identifying vehicles for regulatory, registration, and identification purposes, especially for models like the Saab 9000 manufactured in the United States.

List of WMI Codes for a Saab 9000

WMI: YS3

• Model Years Covered: 1989, 1991-1998
• Example VIN: YS3CS58D8K2000954
• Manufacturer Name: Saab Cars North America, Inc.
• Vehicle Type: Passenger Car
• City: Royal Oak
• State or Province: Michigan
• Country: United States

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a Saab 9000 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 Saab 9000:

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 Saab 9000 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 Saab 9000 VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the Saab 9000 VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known Saab 9000 Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a Saab 9000

The final 6 characters in a Saab 9000’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a Saab 9000 VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, which in this case can be inferred to be 1994, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Body Class: The VIN can specify the body class, indicating that the vehicle is classified as a Hatchback/Liftback/Notchback. This information informs potential buyers or owners about the general style and functionality of the car’s body.
• Engine Specifications: The VIN may reveal engine specifications, such as an in-line engine configuration with a displacement of 2.3 liters and an intercooled turbo. This underscores the vehicle’s power generation capabilities.
• Safety Features: Standard safety features, like the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and front airbags for both the driver and passenger, may be included. This information emphasizes essential safety measures.
• Manufacturing Details: The VIN might provide manufacturing details, such as the specific location where the car was manufactured, like Trollhattan, Sweden. This can provide a glimpse into its geographic production origin, which may be integral for enthusiasts and historians.
• Vehicle Type and Trim: The VIN can identify the vehicle as a Passenger Car with a specific trim level of Aero, giving insights into the model’s intended use and possible luxury or performance enhancements.
• Engine Power and Efficiency: The VIN might provide details about the engine, such as it being turbocharged with four cylinders. This could suggest a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, catering to those who prioritize these aspects.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a Saab 9000