Mitsubishi VIN Decoder

When you’re buying or selling a Mitsubishi, understanding the exact specifications of the car can point you in the right direction. With the VIN, anyone can view a vehicle’s specifications, engine type, factory-installed options, pricing, and even history.

With a Mitsubishi VIN decoder, you can view precise details and ensure you get what you’re paying for. Check now!


What is a Mitsubishi VIN?

A Mitsubishi VIN is more than just a string of characters – it’s a vehicle’s unique fingerprint. Whether it’s the 17-character VIN (or 5 to 14 characters on classic models), this code gives access to everything you need to know about a specific Mitsubishi.

With the VIN, you can get the vehicle’s specifications and features (both standard and optional), engine specs, safety features and ratings, window stickers, paint color, and build sheets. Plus, a detailed VIN lookup lets you check history records right down to the smallest details.

Easily spot red flags on any vehicle, compare several vehicles, and pick the one that best suits your preferences with a Mitsubishi VIN decoder.

Mitsubishi VIN Number Breakdown

The VIN number is 17 characters long in modern vehicles and includes both letters and numbers except the letters Q (q), I (i), and O (o). These are omitted from the VIN to avoid confusion with the numbers 1, 0, and 9.

The characters in the VIN are also grouped into three segments to make decoding easier. These segments are:

  • World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI): This includes the first three characters and signifies the vehicle’s country of origin and manufacturer.
  • Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS): This section includes the 4th to 9th characters and contains information about the vehicle’s make, engine specs, model, and more.
  • Vehicle Identifier Section: Here, you will find the 10th to 17th characters, which encode details like the model year, manufacturing plant code, and a serial number unique to each vehicle.
Mitsubishi VIN Number Breakdown

What Does Each Character in a Mitsubishi VIN Mean?

1st Character: Mitsubishi Country of Origin

The first digit of the VIN indicates where the specific Mitsubishi was manufactured. This helps identify the country of production. For most Mitsubishi vehicles, you should see these characters as the first digit:

  • 1, 4 and 5 = United States
  • J = Japan
  • K = Korea
  • M = Thailand

For example, this Mitsubishi Corolla “1NXAE00E6PZ107036” was made in the U.S.

2nd Character: Manufacturer

For most Mitsubishis, you will find an “A” as the second character of the VIN, but many other characters are used for different manufacturing locations. Examples are:

  • A = Mitsubishi
  • L = Mitsubishi Motors Thailand
  • Z = Made for Mitsubishi by DCX

3rd Character: Vehicle Type

The third character on a Mitsubishi VIN number tells the vehicle type. If you find any of these characters, it should give you a clue of the vehicle’s type:

  • 3 = Passenger car, pickup with curtain airbags
  • 4 = Multi-purpose vehicle
  • 7 = Pickup without curtain airbags.

4th Character: Restraint System and Location

The fourth character describes the safety systems – different types of seat belts and airbags – that are installed at the factory. Here’s what some characters represent:

  • 2 = 1st & 2nd row curtain + seat airbags
  • A = 1st & 2nd row curtain + 1st row seat airbags
  • C= Seat belts only
  • B = Active safety belt or driver airbag
  • J = 1st & 2nd row curtain + 1st row seat airbags

Note that some of these characters are reused for different models to represent different restraint systems.

5th Character: Model

This character identifies your Mitsubishi model. For the most popular ones, you will find these characters on the fifth digit:

  • A or U = Mirage
  • B = Galant or Expo LRV
  • C = Starion, Diamante or Expo LRV with AWD
  • D = Precis, 3000GT or Expo
  • E = 3000GT or Expo
  • F = Eclipse
  • G = Eclipse AWD
  • H = Galant
  • J = Montero
  • K = Montero or Eclipse
  • L = Truck, Eclipse with AWD or Eclipse GSX
  • M = Truck with 4WD or 3000GT
  • N = 3000GT VR4
  • P = Diamante
  • R = Galant or Montero
  • S = Eclipse or truck
  • T = Eclipse or truck with 4WD
  • X = Galant with AWD or Eclipse Spyder Convertible
  • Y = Expo
  • Z = Expo with AWD

Note that some of these characters are reused, so use a Mitsubishi VIN decoder for proper results.

6th Character: Vehicle Trim

The vehicle trim is usually encoded in the sixth character of the VIN. To decode this, you would need a Mitsubishi VIN decoder since some of these are reused to mean different trims, depending on the vehicle’s model. Here are some common characters and the trims they represent:

  • 1 = Base
  • 2 = Deluxe
  • 3 = Super Deluxe
  • 4 = High
  • 5 = Premium Sports trims
  • 6 = Premium Special trims
  • 7 = Ultimate
  • 8 = Sports Special trims

7th Character: Body Style

The seventh character shows the vehicle’s body style:

  • 0, 3 or 9 = Wagon
  • 1 = Wagon, sedan, or short-wheelbase truck
  • 2 = Minivan or long-wheelbase truck
  • 3 = Van or King Size cab truck
  • 4 = Hatchback, minivan or single-cab truck
  • 5 = King Size cab truck
  • 5 = Convertible
  • 6 or 7 = Sedan
  • 9 = Crew cab truck

8th Character: Engine Specifications

The eighth character on a VIN tells the engine’s specifications. This helps to know the engine’s size, configuration, and sometimes fuel type. Here’s a list of common models and their engine codes:

  • A, J, P or X = 1.5l
  • B, C, H or S = 3.0l
  • J = 1.2l
  • D, F, G or T = 1.8l
  • E, R, U or V = 2.0l
  • K or L = 1.4l
  • M = 3.5l
  • N = 2.5l
  • Y = 1.6l

9th Character: Check Digit

This digit verifies that the VIN is authentic and not a fake string of random characters. It is calculated using a specific algorithm developed by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

10th Character: Model Year

The tenth character indicates the model year and alternates between numbers and letters. Each letter represents a specific year; ‘5,’ for example, signifies a Mitsubishi from the 2005 model year.

Here’s a table that can help you easily identify any Mitsubishi’s model year:

Code/YearCode/YearCode/YearCode/YearCode/Year
A 1980
B 1981
C 1982
D 1983
E 1984
F 1985
G 1986
H 1987
J 1988
K  1989
L 1990
M 1991
N 1992
P 1993
R 1994
S 1995
T 1996
V 1997
W 1998
X 1999
Y 2000
1 2001
2 2002
3 2003
4 2004
5 2005
6 2006
7 2007
8 2008
9 2009
A 2010
B 2011
C 2012
D 2013
E 2014
F 2015
G 2016
H 2017
J 2018
K 2019
L 2020
M 2021
N 2022
P 2023
R 2024
S 2025
T 2026
V 2027
W 2028
X 2029

11th Character: Assembly Plant

The eleventh character shows the vehicle’s assembly or manufacturing plant. While most brands’ codes are consistent, Mitsubishi changes theirs quite frequently. So, it’s possible to see one character used for several different plants. Here are some examples:

  • E = USA
  • J, P, Y = Nagoya
  • H = Laemchabang, Thailand
  • S = Warren (DCX)
  • U = Mizushima, Japan
  • Z = Okazaki, Japan
  • T = Tonsley Park, Australia

12th to 17th Characters: Serial Number

These characters make up the unique sequential number of the Mitsubishi. This distinguishes it uniquely from other Mitsubishis with the same model, trim, etc., manufactured in the same plant.

Where is the VIN Number on a Mitsubishi?

You might be wondering where to locate the Mitsubishi VIN. The good news is that it’s easy to find, as Mitsubishi positions the VIN in various locations on the vehicle, and with a careful search, you should be able to locate it:

Here’s where you can find the Mitsubishi VIN number:

  • On the dashboard of the vehicle, near the windshield
  • On the driver’s side door jamb
  • On the engine block
  • On the vehicle’s firewall
  • In the left-hand inner wheel arch
  • On the steering wheel/steering column
  • On the radiator support bracket
  • On the car’s title, registration, maintenance book, or the auto insurance policy
Where is the VIN Number on a Mitsubishi?

What Information Can I Get from a Mitsubishi VIN Lookup?

With the VIN and a Mitsubishi VIN number lookup, you can learn everything about both used and new Mitsubishi vehicles. This includes vehicle specifications, features, build sheets, and past history records.

Some specifications you can view when you use a Mitsubishi VIN decoder includes:

  • Year
  • Make
  • Exterior dimensions
  • Number of doors
  • Ground clearance
  • Standard seating
  • Transmission style
  • Fuel type
  • Braking
  • Range extender
  • Engine Description
  • Front airbag information
  • Emissions
  • Cargo dimensions
  • Model
  • Valve train design
  • Interior dimensions
  • Suspension
  • Traction battery
  • Engine Size and specs
  • Drive Type
  • Tank capacity
  • Trailering
  • Displacement
  • Mileage
  • Tire pressure and size
  • Wheels
  • Electrical powertrain
  • Trim
  • Country
  • Delivery charges
  • Steering
  • Weight
  • MSRP
  • Body type
  • Seating
  • EPA Class
  • Engine model
  • Engine configuration
  • Seat belt type
  • Off-road attributes
  • Electrical specifications
  • Year
  • Make
  • Exterior dimensions
  • Number of doors
  • Ground clearance
  • Standard seating
  • Transmission style
  • Fuel type
  • Braking
  • Range extender
  • Engine Description
  • Front airbag information
  • Emissions
  • Cargo dimensions
  • Model
  • Valve train design
  • Interior dimensions
  • Suspension
  • Traction battery
  • Engine Size and specs
  • Drive Type
  • Tank capacity
  • Trailering
  • Displacement
  • Mileage
  • Tire pressure and size
  • Wheels
  • Electrical powertrain
  • Trim
  • Country
  • Delivery charges
  • Steering
  • Weight
  • MSRP
  • Body type
  • Seating
  • EPA Class
  • Engine model
  • Engine configuration
  • Seat belt type
  • Off-road attributes
  • Electrical specifications

But that’s not all. A Mitsubishi VIN lookup also tracks vehicle history records from when the vehicle first left the factory till date. Some records you can view include:

  • Mileage
  • Odometer Readings
  • Sales History
  • Auction History
  • Accident History
  • Title Brand
  • Salvage Title
  • Hail Damage
  • Flood Damage
  • Structural Damage
  • Ownership History
  • Usage History
  • Ownership Duration
  • Lien & Loans
  • Maintenance Schedule
  • Warranty Status
  • Repair Cost
  • Recalls History
  • Mileage
  • Odometer Readings
  • Sales History
  • Auction History
  • Accident History
  • Title Brand
  • Salvage Title
  • Hail Damage
  • Flood Damage
  • Structural Damage
  • Ownership History
  • Usage History
  • Ownership Duration
  • Lien & Loans
  • Maintenance Schedule
  • Warranty Status
  • Repair Cost
  • Recalls History

Keep in mind that the records available when you decode the VIN depend on the provider you choose. For instance, with our window sticker lookup tool, you can view all the specifications listed above on a copy of the original window sticker. However, you might get less information from other providers.

How to Decode a Mitsubishi VIN Number?

If you have the VIN handy, you can decode it with our Mitsubishi VIN decoder instantly with just a few steps:

  • Enter the Mitsubishi VIN in the form above. Our tool can decode standard VINs (17 characters) and classic VINs (5 – 14 characters). You can also use the license plate number or the year, make, and model of the vehicle if you don’t have the VIN.
  • Click on ‘Search’ to preview your vehicle’s specifications for free.
  • Complete the payment process to get a detailed vehicle history report showing vehicle specifications and history records.

Using our Mitsubishi VIN decoder, you can also break down all the characters of a VIN to access the specifications and build data, whether for classic or modern vehicles.

Common Uses of the Mitsubishi VIN Number

The VIN fits into many applications, depending on who’s using it. But you will often see the VIN used for:

Vehicle Registration

The VIN is required during, before, and after a vehicle purchase is completed. After purchase, most importantly, every vehicle has to be registered at the State bureaus or departments of motor vehicles before they can be used publicly legally. The VIN is also required for other ownership papers and documents for proper identification.

Insurance Purposes

The Mitsubishi VIN is also required during insurance. With a Mitsubishi VIN lookup, insurance companies can use the check on information about specific Mitsubishis and make accurate quotes.

Window Stickers

The VIN is very useful in generating window stickers to check any vehicle’s specifications, such as make, model, engine type, and trim. This ensures that potential buyers can verify the exact features and details of the vehicle before making a purchase.

History Checks

The VIN also comes in for buyers who need to check a vehicle’s history records like theft records, sales records, damages, accidents, salvage brands, rebuilt titles, build data, warranty coverage, and more. With a simple VIN check, car buyers, sellers, and dealers can avoid damaged cars and negotiate accurately.

Police Checks

One important and common use of the Mitsubishi VIN is police checks. If a vehicle gets reported as stolen, the police can identify such vehicles with the help of the VIN. They can even place police markers on those VINs and get alerts whenever they are spotted at checkpoints.

Safety Recalls

Manufacturers also use the VIN to identify specific vehicle models that are recalled. With this, they can notify the owners to get their vehicles fixed as soon as possible. Car buyers can also check for pending recalls on any used car before purchasing using the VIN.

Top Models You Can Lookup With a Mitsubishi VIN Decoder

Now that you know everything about the VIN, you need to view the specs and features of any Mitsubishi before making a purchase. Here are some Mitsubishi models you may be interested in:

Lancer EvolutionOutlanderFTOColt Galant GTO GSR Coupe
PajeroStarionLancer 1600 GSRColt Celeste
3000GTLancerL200Colt Lancer 2000 Turbo
Galant VR-4MirageMitsubishi 500ASX (Outlander Sport)
EclipseShogunColt 600Lancer Turbo

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I lookup my vehicle specs with VIN?

Yes, you can look up vehicle specifications using the VIN number. You can also access your vehicle’s details with the license plate number or by simply providing the vehicle’s year, make, and model information.

How can I decode my VIN number for free?

You can decode your VIN number for free with our free VIN decoder. With this tool you can view the engine specifications, year, make, model, transmission, vehicle type, and more, all for free. To get a full check and a copy of your vehicle’s original window sticker, you may need to pay a fee.

Can my VIN number tell me what features my car has?

Yes, your VIN can tell you the standard and optional features installed on your vehicle.