Free 1997 Volkswagen Passat VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1997 Volkswagen Passat VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1997 Volkswagen Passat VIN

World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) codes are a series of three alphanumeric characters that uniquely identify the manufacturer of a vehicle, as part of the larger Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). For the 1997 Volkswagen Passat, the WMI “WVW” signifies that Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany, is the manufacturer. This code is fundamental in distinguishing the vehicle’s make, indicating it as a Passenger Car produced by Volkswagen. Specifically, the WMI reveals that Volkswagen AG’s facility in Wolfsburg, Germany, is responsible for the manufacturing of this model. Understanding the WMI is crucial for accurately identifying vehicles, as it provides essential data about the vehicle’s manufacturing origin and type.

List of WMI Codes for a 1997 Volkswagen Passat

WMI: WVW

• Model Years Covered: 1992, 1995, 1997-2011, 2013
• Example VIN: WVWGG83AXVB009457
• Manufacturer Name: Volkswagen AG
• Vehicle Type: Passenger Car
• City: Wolfsburg
• State or Province:
• Country: Germany

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a 1997 Volkswagen Passat 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 1997 Volkswagen Passat:

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 1997 Volkswagen Passat 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 1997 Volkswagen Passat VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 1997 Volkswagen Passat VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 1997 Volkswagen Passat Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1997 Volkswagen Passat

The final 6 characters in a 1997 Volkswagen Passat’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

Check your Volkswagen Passat’s VIN below:

What info can a 1997 Volkswagen Passat VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year as 1997, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Engine Specifications: The Volkswagen Passat features a 2.792-liter engine with six cylinders, capable of producing up to 172 horsepower, offering a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
• Body Class and Doors: The body class of Sedan/Saloon with four doors provides a spacious and elegant design for passenger comfort and practicality.
• Fuel Type: The vehicle operates on gasoline, emphasizing its traditional internal combustion powertrain, a common choice for this type of vehicle.
• Safety Features: Safety features include front airbags for both the driver and passenger in the 1st row, along with an active restraint system, indicating a focus on occupant protection.
• Manufacturing Details: Assembled in Belgium, specifically in the city of Brussels, indicating its European manufacturing origins, possibly influencing its design and engineering.
• Weight Class: The car falls within Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Class 1, which is defined as 6,000 lb or less, aligning with lighter passenger vehicles, providing insights into its weight and potential fuel efficiency.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1997 Volkswagen Passat