How to Decode an '86 Toyota Corolla's VIN Number

Every road vehicle sold in the United States, including the 1986 Toyota Corolla, carries a unique 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN), as required by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Department of Transportation, insurance companies and the Department of Motor Vehicles all keep track of vehicles using VINs. A VIN is also used to track vehicle recalls, thefts and warranty claims. It contains information about where the vehicle was manufactured and when, and other details. You can easily decode a 1986 Toyota Corolla's VIN.

Instructions

1

Locate the Corolla's VIN, which is usually mounted on the driver's side of the dashboard near the window, or inside the door frame on the driver's side. You can also see the VIN printed in the vehicle's insurance and title paperwork.

2

Write the VIN on a piece of paper.

3

Go to the Decode This VIN decoder website (see Resources).

4

Type the VIN into the search box, and then click "Decode." Information about the 1986 Corolla will appear, including where it was manufactured and details about the make, model, and engine size.