Free 1998 Saturn SL1 VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1998 Saturn SL1 VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1998 Saturn SL1 VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique sequence of characters assigned to each vehicle manufacturer which forms the initial portion of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). In the case of the 1998 Saturn SL1, the WMI of “1G8” signifies that General Motors LLC, located in Warren, Michigan, United States, is the manufacturer. This three-character code not only identifies the manufacturer but also provides information about the vehicle type, which is a passenger car for this model. The WMI is an integral part of the VIN, allowing vehicles to be tracked and identified globally. It’s a critical tool for safety recalls, registration, and in identifying stolen vehicles.

List of WMI Codes for a 1998 Saturn SL1

WMI: 1G8

• Model Years Covered: 1992-2002
• Example VIN: 1G8ZH5280WZ314696
• Manufacturer Name: General Motors LLC
• Vehicle Type: Passenger Car
• City: Warren
• State or Province: Michigan
• Country: United States

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a 1998 Saturn SL1 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 1998 Saturn SL1:

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 1998 Saturn SL1 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 1998 Saturn SL1 VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 1998 Saturn SL1 VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 1998 Saturn SL1 Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1998 Saturn SL1

The final 6 characters in a 1998 Saturn SL1’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 1998 Saturn SL1 VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, indicating that it could possibly be the year 1998, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Size: The VIN suggests that the vehicle may be classified as a Sedan/Saloon, possibly suggesting a specific body style and interior space conducive to passenger comfort for up to 5 occupants.
• Engine Specifications: The VIN indicates that it possibly features a 1.8L In-Line engine with 4 cylinders, possibly manufactured by Toyota, highlighting the engine’s size, configuration, and the potential notable manufacturer behind its design.
• Plant Details: According to the VIN, the vehicle may have been manufactured in Spring Hill, United States, by Spring Hill Manufacturing, allowing one to trace its production origin and potentially its quality standards.
• Fuel Injection Type: It may be equipped with Multipoint Fuel Injection (MPFI), suggesting the vehicle possibly utilizes a specific fuel delivery system aimed at enhancing engine performance and fuel efficiency.
• Safety Features: The VIN possibly indicates the inclusion of front airbags for both the driver and the first-row passenger, indicating a possible focus on safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision.
• Vehicle Descriptor: The VIN possibly ties to specific vehicle specifications and potentially unique features associated with its model and production.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1998 Saturn SL1

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