Ford VIN Decoder and Build Sheet Guide: Learn how to decode a Ford VIN and understand its factory build sheet details. If you’re curious about engine, trim, production location, or options not shown on the window sticker, this guide explains it all.
What a Ford VIN Tells You
A 17-character Vehicle Identification Number uniquely identifies every Ford. Each character reveals specific details about the vehicle.
- Digits 1–3: Manufacturer and country
- Digits 4–8: Vehicle attributes (body, engine, safety)
- Digit 9: Check digit
- Digit 10: Model year
- Digit 11: Assembly plant
- Digits 12–17: Production sequence number
Example VIN: 1FMEE8BP7SLA70656
- 1FM: Ford multipurpose vehicle, USA
- EE8BP: Engine, safety system, trim, body, drivetrain
- 7: Check digit
- S: Model year (2025)
- L: Michigan Assembly Plant
- 70656: Production sequence number
How a Build Sheet Differs from a Window Sticker
While a window sticker shows MSRP, fuel economy, and consumer-facing options, a Ford build sheet provides internal factory data:
- Trim, option codes, and packages
- Internal production instructions for assembly line
- Factory configuration not on the consumer Monroney label
- VIN-linked specifications for dealer or service reference
How to Decode a Ford VIN Step by Step
Use this tool to automatically decode a Ford VIN. Enter your 17-digit VIN and get details for:
- Engine and drivetrain
- Trim and options
- Model year and assembly plant
Lookup a Ford VIN by License Plate
If you don’t know your VIN, you can retrieve it using the **vehicle’s license plate number and state**. This is useful if you’re:
- Looking at a car for sale and only see the plate
- Wanting to verify factory options or build details
- Planning to get a window sticker later
Use the free license plate lookup form below to find the VIN:
Once you have the VIN, you can decode it, check the build sheet, or even check the current market value.
Ford Build Sheet vs Window Sticker
The window sticker shows your vehicle’s original pricing and equipment. A build sheet includes additional internal configuration data used by Ford dealers and service departments.
- 📞 Call Ford Customer Service at 1-800-392-3673
- 📝 Request a "Build Sheet" or "Vehicle Summary Report"
- 🔎 Provide your 17-digit VIN
Note: Not all VINs have public build sheets. Some reports are internal to dealerships.
Supported Ford and Lincoln Models
- ✔ Ford F-150, F-250, F-350 Super Duty
- ✔ Mustang and Mustang Mach-E
- ✔ Escape, Edge, Explorer, Expedition
- ✔ Bronco, EcoSport, Maverick, Transit
- ✔ Lincoln models (2007+)
Check a Ford's Current Market Value
Once you have the VIN, you may want to know the vehicle's current value. The Carfax Value Tool provides an instant estimate based on mileage, condition, and real-time sales data.
- Get current Ford market value using your VIN
- Compare dealer and private party prices
- See how factory options and trim levels affect resale value
- Powered by Carfax nationwide sales data
👉 Try it here: Check Ford Value by VIN on Carfax
Troubleshooting VIN or Build Sheet Issues
If your VIN does not return results, it’s usually because:
- The vehicle is still in production
- The VIN contains a typo
- The Ford database is temporarily unavailable
For guidance, see our troubleshooting guide: why a VIN lookup sometimes fails and what to do.
Ford VIN Decoder & Build Sheet FAQs
What does a Ford VIN reveal?
Each character in the VIN gives manufacturer, model year, engine, drivetrain, and production info.
Do I need a window sticker if I have a build sheet?
Yes, the window sticker provides MSRP, fuel economy, and consumer-facing options not on the build sheet.
Is this Ford VIN decoding tool free?
Yes, completely free with no account required.
Which Ford models are supported?
Most vehicles and Lincoln models from 2007 onward.
Can I lookup a VIN using a license plate?
Yes, you can retrieve the VIN using the vehicle’s license plate and state, then decode or check the build sheet.