VW Chassis Number Decoder

VW Chassis Number Decoder

What year is your VW?decode your chassis number.

Enter your air-cooled Volkswagen's chassis number and we'll tell you the model year - then send you straight to the right parts. Works for the Beetle, Bus, Ghia, Type 3, and Thing.

1 Pick your model
2 Enter your chassis number
+ Where do I find my chassis number?
Select a model above to begin.
How it works

How to read a VW chassis number.

1946 - 1964
Sequential numbers

Early cars used one running number with no year built in - the year is found by matching your number to a production range. Decoding these is an estimate; we'll show you the chart.

1965 - 1979
The year is in the number

The first three digits tell the story: type, body, then a year digit. In 117 505 826 the "7" means 1967. A 10-digit number (from 1970) means the '70s. This is the reliable decode.

Where to look
Finding your number

Most often it's stamped on the frame tunnel under the rear seat, on the ID plate in the front trunk, or on the dash by the windshield. Pick your model above and we'll point you to the exact spot.

A quick note on accuracy. This decoder reads the year and model encoded in your chassis number - it's a strong guide, not a certificate. Air-cooled floorpans get swapped, and the chassis number is not the engine number (the engine has its own stamping). Always confirm against the car itself, and for a numbers-matching verification bring us the details. When in doubt, give the shop a call - we do this every day.

Know your VW. Get the right parts.

Once you know your year and model, our vehicle pages have everything that fits - German OE, quality repro, and the parts we make in-house.

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