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Volvo VIN Decoder

Volvo has built cars in Gothenburg since 1927, with a lasting reputation for safety, including the three-point seat belt it introduced in 1959.

Built before 1981?

Can I decode a Volvo VIN from before 1981?

Not yet. A Volvo built before 1981 used a shorter, manufacturer-specific number rather than the 17-character standard, and our classic decoder does not cover Volvo so far. Every VIN searched there is recorded, and the makes people look up most are the ones we add next.

Try the classic decoder
Classic Volvo VINs Not yet Every VIN searched is recorded, and the makes people look up most are added next.
Reading a Volvo VIN

What do the first three characters of a Volvo VIN mean?

Swedish-built vehicles begin with Y. Volvo cars use YV1 and many of its SUVs YV4.

What each of the 17 positions means

The 17 positionsYV1 …
  • 1–3Manufacturer
  • 4–8Vehicle details
  • 9Check digit
  • 10Model year
  • 11Plant
  • 12–17Serial number
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