Which character in the VIN represents the vehicle manufacturer?

The second character in the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is used to represent the vehicle manufacturer. The VIN is a 17-character string that serves as a unique identifier for each vehicle, and it is structured in a specific way to convey key information about the vehicle.

In the context of the VIN, the first character indicates the country of origin where the vehicle was manufactured, and the third character is often related to the vehicle type or division within the manufacturer. The fourth character conveys information about the model or variant of the vehicle. However, it's the second character that specifically identifies the manufacturer of the vehicle, allowing for the differentiation between brands and manufacturers within the automotive industry.

Understanding the structure of the VIN is crucial for various professional roles in the automotive field, including appraisers, as it assists in accurately identifying and evaluating vehicles.