What chassis is my car?
In most modern vehicles, the chassis is defined by the car’s platform code and VIN; the quickest way to identify it is to read the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and consult the build sheet or door sticker.
Understanding the term “chassis” in today’s cars
The word chassis can refer to several related ideas. Practically, it means the underlying frame and suspension architecture, plus the set of mechanical components that define a vehicle’s fundamental design. For many carmakers, it also denotes a specific platform or chassis code used to categorize models that share the same engineering blueprint. Enthusiasts often reference chassis codes or platform names (for example, a BMW E90 or a Mercedes W213) to identify a generation or family of vehicles and the parts that fit them.
How to identify your chassis
Use these steps to locate and interpret the chassis information for your vehicle.
- Locate the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The 17-character VIN is usually found on the driver's side dashboard where it can be seen through the windshield, or on the driver’s door jamb sticker. In some models, it can also be found on the engine bay or the radiator support.
- Decode the VIN. The first three characters identify the World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI), which tells you the manufacturer and country. Characters 4–9 describe the vehicle descriptor and may indicate model and body style, while characters 10–17 reveal the model year, assembly plant, and production sequence. A VIN decoder (manufacturer portal or reputable third‑party sites) will translate these codes and often highlight the chassis/platform family.
- Check the build sheet or window sticker. The Monroney label (in the U.S.) or the official build sheet provided by the dealer often contains a chassis/platform designation or a family code used by the brand. This is especially common for fleets and service records.
- Look for a chassis or platform code printed on the car. Some vehicles carry a chassis code on a plate in the engine bay, the firewall, or near the door hinges. The code may also appear in service manuals or on the label inside the glovebox or trunk.
- If you still aren’t sure, contact the dealer or the OEM portal. Provide the VIN to a dealership or manufacturer’s customer portal; they can confirm the exact chassis type, platform family, and compatible parts for your car.
By following these steps, you can confirm the chassis or platform for parts, repairs, and compatibility with accessories and service information.
Common chassis and platform codes you might encounter
Automakers use internal codes to designate chassis families and platforms. Here are representative examples you may see in documentation or online discussions, along with what they generally signify:
- BMW: Generation and chassis codes such as E90, F30, and G20 identify model generations and the associated chassis engineering; these codes help distinguish parts compatibility across years.
- Mercedes-Benz: Chassis/Generation codes like W204 or W213 denote the E-Class family and its successor generations, often used in service docs and parts catalogs.
- Toyota and other manufacturers with TNGA: Platform names like GA-C (and other GA- variants) describe the broader architecture shared by multiple models, such as Corolla and related cars.
- Volkswagen Group and peers: MQB, MLB, and MSB are widely used platform designations that group vehicles across brands under common engineering schemes, affecting parts compatibility and maintenance approaches.
These codes are most reliable when cross-referenced with the VIN, the car’s manual, or an official OEM portal. Not every country or dealership will display every code in the same place, but the VIN remains the most universal starting point for an accurate chassis identification.
Where to find official documentation and support
For definitive information about your exact chassis, rely on official sources linked to your vehicle. Start with the VIN and then consult the next best sources below:
- OEM vehicle portal or customer support: Entering your VIN usually yields platform, build, and parts compatibility data.
- Dealer service department: Provide the VIN and request the chassis/platform designation, along with any available build sheets.
- Owner’s manual and window sticker/Monroney label: These documents can list platform or chassis designations used for your car.
Having the chassis or platform in hand makes ordering the correct parts, diagnosing issues, and communicating with service centers much smoother.
Summary
The chassis of your car is tied to its platform code and overall engineering family. Start with the VIN, then verify with the build sheet, window sticker, or OEM portal to confirm the exact chassis or platform. This knowledge helps ensure parts compatibility, accurate repairs, and a clearer understanding of your vehicle’s design lineage.
Is VIN and chassis no the same thing?
Yes, the chassis number is printed on the Registration Certificate (RC) of your vehicle. The RC contains essential details about your car, including its chassis number, which is used for documentation and identification purposes. Are VIN and chassis number the same? Yes, a car's VIN number is also its chassis number.
What is the chassis code in the VIN?
A vehicle identification number (VIN; also called a chassis number or frame number) is a unique code, including a serial number, used by the automotive industry to identify individual motor vehicles, towed vehicles, motorcycles, scooters and mopeds, as defined by the International Organization for Standardization in ...
Can I identify the car model by chassis number?
Yes, you can decode your VIN using our VIN decoder. On AutoZone.com, this will add the Year, Make, Model, and Engine of your vehicle when shopping products on our site. What if my VIN is less than 17 characters? If your vehicle's VIN is less than 17 characters, it was likely made before 1981.
How do I find out what chassis my car is?
The VIN or Chassis Number can be found on the dashboard, driver's side door and on the registration certificate. All cars and light commercial vehicles built after 1981 have a unique 17-character VIN that provides access to valuable information about that vehicle's history.
