Porsche 993: VIN Decoder

This article applies to the Porsche 993 (1993-1998).

Your vehicle identification number (VIN) offers important detailed information about the history of your Porsche 993, including its full service history and any police reports made against the vehicle. There are several spots on your car where this 17-digit number can be found. This article explains where each spot is located, so you'll know exactly where to look and what to look for. Once you've located your VIN, read on to learn how to decode its meaning using a paper readout or an online VIN decoder. The process is quite easy and, best of all, it's free!

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

17 Digits of Vital Information

Porsche introduced the 17-digit VIN in model year 1981. Therefore, for the purposes of describing the 993, this article will provide a 17-digit VIN decoder.

A vehicle identification number (VIN) is a long serial number that consists of 17 numbers and letters. Together, these 17 values detail where your vehicle was manufactured, what OEM parts and options it includes, any service work that has been performed on the vehicle, and information regarding any collisions in which the vehicle is reported to have been involved.

Location

The easiest and most common spot to retrieve your VIN is near the front windshield (on the driver's side). Other spots include the driver's side door jamb, the sticker on the driver's side door, and stamped on the front of the engine block.

VIN Decoder

Your VIN breaks down as such:

• Known as the World Manufacturer Code, the first letters and numbers of your VIN reveal the point of assembly for your Porsche.
• Positions 4 through 6 reveal the vehicle model and body style as well as transmission type and engine code. They also reveal whether your Porsche is equipped with driver and passenger side air bags. This information is known as the "USA Code."
• Positions 7 and 8 reveal the 1st and 2nd digits of your vehicle type and model code, respectively.
• Known as the "Check Digit," position 9 is used only to authenticate the validity of the VIN. This number is based on a mathematical code developed by the Dept. of Transportation.
• Position 10 reveals the model year of your Porsche.
• Positions 11 reveals the production plant where your Porsche was assembled.
• Position 12 reveals the 3rd digit of your vehicle type and model code. So, for example, the VIN for your 993 might read: WPOZZZ99ZRS300125. Based on this sample VIN, the buyer (or whomever is reading the readout) can see that the vehicle in question is in fact a "993."
• Position 13 reveals the engine or body type.
• Positions 14 through 17 reveal unique information about your vehicle. It is known as the "Vehicle Code" or vehicle serial number.

Common Questions

What other helpful information does my VIN provide?

If your 993 is ever involved in a recall, you'll need to provide the local Porsche dealer where you will have your vehicle serviced with your VIN number. Your VIN will provide the dealer with detailed information about which parts in your vehicle might be defective and what repairs have to be made.

Can I find out if my vehicle has been involved in a collision?

Yes! Any vehicle that is reported to have been involved a collision is traceable back to the vehicle's VIN. In accordance with state laws, any collision that results in physical damage above a state-specified amount, say $750, must be reported to the authorities.

Common Issues

Fees Associated with Obtaining a VIN Readout

Never pay a fee to obtain a VIN readout. For a free online VIN decoder, see the related site below.

Accuracy

Visit your local Porsche dealer for a VIN readout, or access your vehicle's readout online for free. Online VIN decoders offer accurate, up-to-date information that you can trust.

Difficulty Deciphering the Readout

Your local Porsche dealer can assist you in deciphering your VIN readout if you have further questions.

Related Site

• VIN Decoder - Renntech.org