Decode Volvo VIN Number - Lookup and History Check

Volvo VIN Decoder

Volvo, the Swedish automaker, began producing cars in 1927. The company began its exports to the United States in 1957 with a host of skeptical experts. However, Volvo became California's second-largest import model in two short years.

Volvo has a solid reputation as one of the safest motor cars in the world, and its history supports that belief. In 1959, Volvo engineered the three-point safety seatbelt, which is still used today. The company waived patent rights to benefit everyone.

Early 1975 VINs on the Volvo 160 and 240 models had codes similar to modern-day specifications. The company used a two-position manufacturer identifier with 15 characters. In 1981, Volvo accepted the 17-digit requirements mandated by the NHTSA until ten years later, when their VIN pattern changed again. Characters five through eight were combined to give a more complete picture of the specific model. From 2008 forward, with the acquisition by Ford, Volvo VIN patterns changed again, mainly with its fifth character.

Using the industry-standard lookup application, the GoodCar VIN Decoder tool is a valuable resource for Volvo owners, prospective buyers, business executives, and fleet managers. Inputting the 17-digit alphanumeric code into the decoder returns a wealth of individualized information on your vehicle.

Information such as where the vehicle was built, restraint systems used, plus engine and transmission types are documented. Each position in the Volvo VIN gives a specific piece of information, making the 17-digit sequence unlike any other VIN.

Deciphering a Volvo VIN

Volvo uses the standardized outline of a 17-digit alphanumeric code handed down by the NHTSA in 1981. The VIN is divided into three sections, each providing specific information about the vehicle.

Manufacture Identifier

origin

country

type of vehicle

Vehicle descriptor section

Restraint systems

Engine size

body style

checksum

model year

manufacturing plant

production sequence number

VIN Digit

Meaning

1^st

Position one of the Volvo VIN tells the country of origin. Volvo is a multinational organization with plants scattered around the world. However, most Volvos are built and assembled in Sweden.

2^nd

Position two is the country where a specific model was built and assembled.

3^rd

Position three of the Volvo VIN is the vehicle type or group, such as a passenger car, truck, or multipurpose vehicle.

4^th - 8^th

Positions four through eight are the meat of the VIN, telling users most of the information about the vehicle. From a decoding standpoint, these slots are the most important relative to the other positions. In the fourth position is the model type or vehicle line.

5^th

Restraint systems, such as dual airbags, side curtains, or sedans with seatbelt pre-tensioners, are described in the fifth position.

6^th - 7^th

Engine size, type, and transmission types are described in positions six and seven, such as the Volvo 3.0 L, 2.0 L, or 2.8 L turbo.

8^th

Volvo's body style is reserved for the eighth position, such as a two-door, four-door, or five-door hatchback.

9^th

The checksum digit is in the ninth position. A pre-determined algorithm and checksum are used to validate the full VIN.

10^th

The model year of a specific Volvo is reserved for the tenth slot. The position alternates between letters and numbers to avoid confusion with similar characters, and the build date may differ from the model year.

11^th

The eleventh position is reserved for the exact manufacturing plant where a specific Volvo rolled off the assembly line. Volvo plants are in China, the United States, and Sweden.

12^th - 17^th

Positions twelve through seventeen are generally described as the vehicle serial or sequence numbers, with no two characters alike. Manufacturers may use these numbers to describe sensor-based add-ons such as lane assist. The numbers sometimes represent small automakers, building 500 vehicles or less yearly.

Where Can I Find the VIN on My Volvo?

There are two locations that the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) has mandated, THe first being on the driver's side dashboard at the windshield. The VIN must be readable through the glass. The second location is on the driver's side B pillar halfway down the post. The VIN will be stamped on a plaque, along with other information, such as the recommended tires and needed air pressures.

Popular Volvo Models

Volvo’s XC90 is a well-built, stylish big SUV for customers wanting a Scandinavian relaxed vibe. The XC90 offers an elegant interior space with all the technology and entertainment features consumers demand. Available as a plug-in hybrid, the SUV can deliver 35 miles on electricity alone. The XC90 has all the sophisticated safety features Volvo is famous for, with a distinct character.

The Volvo S60 is a stylish, great-looking sedan with a history that stretches back two decades. The company offers a plug-in hybrid with a 456 hp punch. The S60 delivers some of the most comfortable seats in the industry, and it uses a variety of interior materials well. This stunning sedan offers all the best creature comforts.

The Volvo P1800 Cyan is a remnant of the Volvo racing arm Polestar. The P1800 is just one of those models consumers see around town but rarely know who makes the stylish sports car. The Cyan Racing team is still going strong with a P1800 introduced in 1961. A five-time World champion Car, the P1800 is the ultimate driving experience.

The 17-digit VIN is only the tip of the iceberg when decoding a Volvo VIN through the GoodCar Vehicle History search application. Each history report is invaluable for potential buyers, fleet managers, and executives.

Business executives and fleet managers who depend on their vehicles use history reports to discover maintenance schedules for potential company vehicles and instantly determine whether any bank or civil liens are attached to the vehicle. Quality reports provide a complete timeline of sales transactions along with any service records.

Volvo VIN Lookup

Potential Volvo buyers should never consider any used vehicle without a GoodCar Vehicle History report. Odometer fraud has always been an easy and insidious automotive crime, and buyers are generally unaware of the circumstances. GoodCar gives an accurate odometer reading every time the vehicle changes hands, visits a mechanic, or goes to the dealer service lane. Buyers should pay close attention to out-of-state transactions that seem out of the ordinary.

One of the most important aspects of any history report is documenting whether the vehicle has been deemed a Lemon. Any new car with a chronic problem the dealership cannot repair after repeated attempts can have the car branded a Lemon. The state can force the dealership to refund the purchase price or to offer a comparable replacement.

Volvo Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins

March 2023, a recall for certain 2023 XC60, XC90, and XC40 affecting 27,457 models for a potentially serious issue. Diagnostic errors in the brake control module could cause a loss of the anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, and traction control, causing a loss of braking support. Volvo is expected to release an OTA or over-the-air solution, free of charge.
The Takata airbag global recall affects 194,546, 2021, for 2001 to 2007 V70 and XC70 models. Over 39 million vehicles were involved in the faulty Takata airbags. The inflator on the driver's side airbag may explode during driving, resulting in an explosion with shrapnel entering the cabin. The faulty propellant may explode after prolonged exposure to high heat and humidity. Those owners must bring their vehicles to a Volvo dealership for inspection and replacement.
Volvo Cars has recalled 85,550 models from 2019 to 2021, including V90, XC 60, and S90 vehicles, due to a faulty low-pressure fuel pump that may fail and blow a fuse. Any faulty fuel pump while driving could cause the vehicle to stall, causing a crash. Volvo dealers will inspect and replace any faulty parts free of charge.