Where is the VIN tag on a 1957 Chevy?
There is no modern VIN tag on a 1957 Chevrolet. Identification relies on the cowl tag (a data plate) on the firewall that holds a body serial number and build data, plus other stamped numbers on the engine and frame. This article explains where to look and how to interpret it.
VIN versus older identification systems
In 1981 the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) as a 17-character code. Cars built in 1957 used a different approach; they carried a data plate on the firewall known as the cowl tag, and a separate engine/transmission serial numbers. The absence of a modern VIN form does not mean the car is unidentifiable—it’s simply a different coding system used by GM at the time.
Where to find the data plate (the closest thing to a VIN)
For most 1957 Chevrolets, the primary source is the cowl tag on the passenger-side of the firewall. This tag is usually visible through the engine compartment, near the base of the windshield and toward the passenger side. It may require removing a panel or wiring to read in some models.
- Primary location: cowl tag on the firewall, passenger side, behind the dash in the engine bay.
- Alternative location on some cars: tag on the radiator support or the left front inner fender where GM sometimes stamped a serial number or affixed a small plate.
- Supplementary identifiers: the engine stamping and the frame serial number (if present) can aid verification and matching with the data plate codes.
The data on the cowl tag includes the build date, body style, paint color, interior trim, and sometimes a body serial number which functions as the car's identification number in era practice. It is important to consult specific model-year documentation for exact code meanings, as codes changed by year and plant.
Interpreting the cowl tag
The cowl tag typically lists several fields, such as BUILD DATE, BODY STYLE, TRIM, PAINT, and sometimes an assembly plant code. The exact layout and codes vary by model (e.g., Bel Air, 210, 150) and by GM division. To read it:
- Find the tag: look on the passenger-side firewall near the base of the windshield; it is a small metal plate riveted to the firewall.
- Record the codes present: e.g., BUILD DATE, BODY STYLE, PAINT, TRIM, and the assembly plant code if shown.
- Cross-reference the codes with year-specific Chevrolet data plates or published reference tables for the 1957 model year.
While these steps help identify the car in the absence of a modern VIN, you may still find additional numbers stamped elsewhere on the car that can help with matching restorable components and authenticity, including the engine block numbers and the frame or axle IDs.
Why it matters for collectors
For collectors and restorers, understanding the cowl tag and any other factory stamps is critical for authenticity, matching numbers for concours standards, and verifying options and production date. Because there is no standard 17-digit VIN for a 1957 Chevy, documentation and reference sources from Chevrolet's early data books or preserved assembly plant records are relied upon to confirm the car's identity.
Summary
In short, a 1957 Chevrolet does not carry a modern VIN tag. Instead, look for the cowl tag on the passenger-side firewall, which houses the body serial number and build data, plus any additional engine or frame stamps that can verify the car's identity. Reading these codes requires year-specific references, as Chevrolet used different code schemes across plants and body styles.
Summary: The primary identifier is the firewall cowl tag; other stamps supplement identification; modern VINs came later; consult Chevrolet data sheets for exact code meanings.
Note: If you are restoring a 1957 Chevy, consider reaching out to specialist clubs or a Chevrolet restoration database to interpret the codes accurately for your exact model and production location.
How to tell a 57 Chevy?
The simple aspect of the grille that identifies the '56 are the huge, square-ish signal lamps encompassed within the grille, where the '57 has round signal lamps and huge round bumperettes. Both '55 and '56 have a smooth hood, but the '57 has a pair of 'Rockets' that make that hood specific to that year.
What is the most sought after 57 Chevy?
1957 Chevy Bel Air Popularity
The '55 and '56 models had developed a reputation for reliability and, when needed, simple and cheap repair. This carried through into 1957. The abundance of 1957 Bel Airs also helps account for why the car continues to be popular.
Where is the VIN number on an old Chevy truck?
And these are the main number two VIN numbers they're going to be the same VIN number but these are the main main locations. That are on essentially every vehicle. A lot of vehicles.
Where is the trim tag on a 1957 Chevy?
early 57's were located behind the distributor and the later production ones were on the passenger side cowl.
