Free Toyota Highlander VIN Decoder

How to decode a Toyota Highlander VIN

Characters 1-3 of a Toyota Highlander VIN

World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) codes are unique sequences that provide detailed information about a vehicle, including its manufacturer and vehicle type. Toyota Highlanders have two specific WMIs indicating their origin and model specifics. The ‘JTE’ WMI indicates that the vehicle was manufactured by Toyota Motor North America, Inc., in Washington, DC, United States, covering models from 2001 to 2013. On the other hand, the ‘5TD’ WMI is associated with Toyota Highlander models produced between 2010 and 2024 by Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc., in Princeton, Indiana. These codes are integral in identifying the manufacturer’s details and ensuring the vehicle’s authenticity and specifications.

List of WMI Codes for a Toyota Highlander

WMI: JTE

• Model Years Covered: 2001-2013
• Example VIN: JTEGD21A010003564
• Manufacturer Name: Toyota Motor North America, Inc.
• Vehicle Type: Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle (MPV)
• City: Washington
• State or Province: DC
• Country: United States

WMI: 5TD

• Model Years Covered: 2010-2024
• Example VIN: 5TDEK3EH0AS001289
• Manufacturer Name: Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc.
• Vehicle Type: Multipurpose Passenger Vehicle (MPV)
• City: Princeton
• State or Province: Indiana
• Country: United States

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander:

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 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the Toyota Highlander VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known Toyota Highlander Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a Toyota Highlander

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

What info can a Toyota Highlander VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year as 2017, offering insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Manufacturing Details: The 2017 Toyota Highlander is manufactured in Princeton, Indiana, USA, by Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana, Inc., showcasing the depth of information regarding the vehicle’s origin and production specifics.
• Engine and Performance Specifications: The vehicle is powered by a 3.5L V-Shaped engine with 6 cylinders, capable of producing 256 hp. It uses a combination of gasoline and electric fuel, highlighting the hybrid electrification level it operates at, potentially influencing its performance and fuel economy.
• Safety Features: Standard safety features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Backup Camera, Blind Spot Warning, and Crash Imminent Braking among others, indicating a strong emphasis on passenger safety.
• Drive Type and Body Class: It is a 4WD Sport Utility Vehicle, offering insights into its off-road capabilities and suitability for varying terrains. It can accommodate up to 7 passengers across 3 seat rows, potentially making it ideal for families, although this may vary depending on individual preferences and requirements.
• Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact: The Highlander uses a Nickel-Metal-Hydride battery for its hybrid operation, emphasizing its commitment to fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact, which may contribute to lower fuel costs and reduced carbon emissions.
• Transmission and Drive Technology: Equipped with an Electronic Continuously Variable (e-CVT) transmission, it merges efficiency with performance, providing a potentially smooth driving experience, although individual driving experiences may vary.
• Additional Comfort and Convenience Features: With standard features such as Keyless Ignition and optional Parking Assist, the vehicle blends luxury with functionality, potentially catering to a wide audience’s needs and preferences.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a Toyota Highlander