Did You Know? Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), also known as a chassis number or frame number, is a distinctive code that includes a serial number. It is employed by the automotive industry to uniquely identify individual motor vehicles, towed vehicles, motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds. This identification system is standardized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO 3779).

VINs were initially introduced in 1954 in the United States. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of the United States standardized the format, requiring all on-road vehicles sold to contain a 17-character VIN.

In Indonesia, the VIN refers to the ISO 3779. The VIN, according to ISO 3779, consists of 17 digits, which are divided into three parts, namely:

• Digits 1 - 3 is World Manufactures Identifier (WMI) 
• Digits 4 - 9 is Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
• Digits 10  - 17 is Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS)

The following is an example of how to read the frame number:

• The 1^st and 2^nd digits indicate the country where the vehicle was assembled. The following is the vehicle manufacturer's country code:
  JA-J0: Japan
  LA-L0: China
  MA-ME: India
  MF-MK: Indonesia
  ML-MR: Thailand
  PL-PR: Malaysia
  RL-RR: Vietnam
   
• The 3^rd digit shows the vehicle manufacturer code. The following are the manufacturer codes for vehicles assembled in Indonesia:
  Y: Suzuki
  F: Toyota
  R: Honda
  K: Daihatsu

• The 4^th to 8^th digits provide information about engine specifications, vehicle type, including an explanation if there is a change in car model from time to time, vehicle body type, and additional information about the vehicle.
• The 9^th digit is a Check Digit, a special identity for a product only known by the automotive manufacturer.
• The 10^th digit is the code for the year the vehicle was assembled. Here is the list:

• The 11^th digit is the Company's factory or factory code.
• The 12^th to 17^th digits are the vehicle serial number.

How important is the frame number?
The Vehicle Identification Number is the vehicle's identity, which must be stated on the vehicle ownership document and vehicle registration certificate (Surat Tanda Nomor Kendaraan/STNK). This VIN is generally checked and data matched when renewing STNK, buying and selling vehicles, and insurance documents.

Hopefully, the above information can enrich your understanding related to Vehicle Identification Number. If you require additional information about insurance products from MSIG Indonesia, please contact us at 021 - 2523110 and we will be pleased to assist you. Once again, we thank you for choosing MSIG Indonesia as your insurance solution.