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.
How to read a VW chassis number.
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.
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.
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.
VW chassis numbers, answered.
Where do I find my VW chassis 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 in the decoder above and we'll point you to the exact spot.
How do I read the model year out of a VW chassis number?
On 1965–1979 cars 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.
What about 1946–1964 cars?
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; the decoder shows you the chart.
Is the chassis number the same as the engine number?
No. The chassis number is not the engine number — the engine has its own stamping. Air-cooled floorpans also get swapped, so always confirm against the car itself.
Which VW models does this decoder work for?
It works for the Beetle, Bus, Ghia, Type 3, and Thing.
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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