How Can I Find Out the Original Factory Options for a Vehicle Using the VIN?

What are Factory Options?

Factory options are the options or upgrades added to a vehicle by the manufacturer when it is built. These options can range from an upgraded engine to luxury amenities such as heated leather seats and LED lights. The fourth through eighth digits of the vehicle’s VIN will contain information about the factory options that have been added. In many cases, car manufacturers tend to bundle factory options together into packages, such as sports or luxury packages.

When purchasing a new car, you can add any or all options that the car manufacturer’s model specs permit you to. However, adding anything to a new car aftermarket could void the warranty in some cases. To find out more information about your specific vehicle’s factory options, you can contact the dealership or manufacturer’s service number and provide them with the VIN. They will be able to access the vehicle’s options information by running it through their computer system.

What to Consider When Choosing Vehicle Options

1. Vin number

The importance of a vehicle’s VIN number when choosing options cannot be understated. Knowing the VIN of a car can provide a wealth of information about the vehicle, from the country of origin and make and model, to the engine size and trim level. It can also be used to check for safety recalls and obtain a vehicle history report. Knowing the VIN of a vehicle, you can easily decode the fourth through eighth letters and numbers to find out the vehicle options. This can be invaluable when researching a car to purchase, as it allows you to be informed and prepared. Additionally, if something seems off with the vehicle, the VIN can help you determine if it’s worth the extra fees. Ultimately, the VIN number is an invaluable tool when researching a car, as it can provide a wealth of information and ensure you don’t get ripped off.

2. Factory options

When purchasing a 2018 Toyota RAV4, potential car owners can choose from a range factory options to customize the vehicle. Standard features typically include items like engine and transmission specifications, standard installed equipment and safety features. Additional factory options available include the option to upgrade to a more powerful engine, a better entertainment system, disc brakes, leather seats, blind spot sensors, rear-view cameras, and parallel-park assist. Depending on the trim, customers may be able to select from a variety of exterior, interior, and technology options as well. These options can be identified by the last six digits of the vehicle’s VIN. To get a more detailed list of the exact options available, it is best to enter the VIN into an electronic VIN decoder or to call the dealership or manufacturer’s service number and provide them with the VIN.

3. Value added options

Value added options for vehicles can include larger, more powerful engines, better entertainment systems, disc brakes, leather seats, LED lights, safety systems, heated and cooled seats, a myriad of cameras, and other convenience and appearance options. Depending on the make and model of the car, there are usually package upgrades such as sports or luxury packages that include various options. Knowing what vehicles have installed can be vital in many ways, such as helping to increase the insurance premium or selling the car at a higher value. Additionally, with the full 17-digit VIN, it is possible to get factory installed options which make for more accurate vehicle valuations.

4. Tech specs

When choosing the right vehicle options, there are a variety of technical specifications to consider. These include body style, passenger capacity and volume, EPA classification, base curb weight, fuel economy (combined, city, highway), trailering limits (tongue, distributed hitch, deadweight hitch), maximum towing capacity, gearing ratios for the transmission, suspension type (front and rear), tire size (width, diameter, rim size, weight rating), brake rotor size and thickness, head and leg room space, cargo volume behind seat rows, engine cylinder and valve count, the model year, MSRP price, fuel type, power, MPG, engine displacement, number of cylinders, suspension type, tire size, wheelbase length, and 4-Wheel ABS status. Standard features usually include engine and transmission specs, installed equipment, airbags, safety equipment, interior amenities, exterior features, and LED lights. The vehicle’s build sheet, which can be obtained from the VIN, will provide detailed information about the vehicle’s factory options and specs.

5. Vehicle identification number

Vehicle identification numbers (VINs) are an essential tool for determining a car’s history and options. They are 17-digit codes, made up of both numbers and letters, that are assigned to a vehicle as soon as it begins the manufacturing process. VINs uniquely identify a specific car, making them invaluable for buyers who are looking for the exact features and options that they want.

A VIN can provide buyers with a wealth of information, such as the car’s airbag type, country of origin, engine size, model year, vehicle type, and plant name. It can also be used to check for safety recalls or obtain a vehicle history report. It’s important for buyers to make sure that the VIN on the car matches the one listed on the title, registration, and insurance documents.

Having the VIN on a car is also essential for entering the correct parts and accessories. For example, when buying a part for a car, the part must have the correct VIN to ensure that it is the correct part for that particular car.

Overall, VINs are important for buyers who are looking to purchase a vehicle with the exact options and features that they want. It is essential to check the VIN on the title, registration, insurance documents, and car itself to make sure that it matches and that the buyer is getting what they are paying for.

6. Size and configuration

Vehicles come in a variety of sizes and configurations. Depending on the manufacturer and model, you can find options like body style, passenger capacity and passenger volume, fuel economy, maximum towing capacity, gearing ratios, suspension type, tire size, brake rotor size, head and leg room space, cargo volume, engine cylinder and valve count, and more. The full option car has all the equipment available for the vehicle, or all the highest-quality materials/options. These cars will usually have leather and heated seats, LED lights, a myriad of cameras, and safety systems, along with other convenience and appearance options. The Vehicle Descriptor Section gives you information such as when it was produced, what options it comes with, and a variety of other details about the vehicle. You can customize certain options, such as the color and rims, but most features are pre-packaged in trim levels, providing you with budget, performance, comfort, or middle ground options.

7. Engine type and displacement

When choosing a vehicle, the engine type and displacement are important considerations. The engine type will determine the efficiency and power of the vehicle, and the displacement will affect the size and performance of the engine. Generally speaking, larger displacement engines tend to provide more power, but also consume more fuel. Smaller displacement engines can offer better fuel efficiency and emissions, but may lack power.

When comparing different engine types, it is important to look at the engine displacement (CI) and engine displacement (CC) as listed in the Vehicle Descriptor Section of the VIN. The size and power of the engine will depend on the displacement, with larger displacement engines producing more power. However, larger displacement engines also tend to consume more fuel, and may produce more emissions. Therefore, it is important to consider the intended use of the vehicle when selecting an engine type and displacement.

Another factor to consider is the fuel type indicated in the Vehicle Descriptor Section. The fuel type will affect the performance and efficiency of the engine, with some engines performing better on certain fuel types than others. Additionally, the number of cylinders in the engine can affect its performance, with more cylinders providing more power and torque. Therefore, when comparing engine types and displacement, it is important to consider the fuel type, number of cylinders, and intended use of the vehicle to determine the best choice.

8. Steering wheel design

When considering the steering wheel design when choosing vehicle options, there are several aspects to consider. Firstly, the size of the wheel is important. It should fit the driver’s hand size, as well as fit the car’s interior style. Secondly, the material of the wheel should match the car’s aesthetic. It can be made from leather, wood, plastic or chrome, for example. Thirdly, the design of the wheel should suit the driver’s preferences. This includes the style, such as a 3-spoke wheel, and the feel when gripping the wheel, such as thicker or thinner spokes. Lastly, the wheel should have the right number of controls, such as the number of buttons or paddles, to allow the driver to control the car’s various functions. All these aspects should be taken into consideration when choosing the right steering wheel design for a vehicle.

9. Wheelbase length

The importance of wheelbase length when choosing vehicle options is critical for ensuring a comfortable ride. Wheelbase length affects the overall stability of a vehicle, as well as its handling capabilities. Longer wheelbases provide more room for passengers and cargo, and can provide a smoother ride due to increased stability. Additionally, longer wheelbases increase the towing capacity of a vehicle, allowing it to haul heavier loads. Another benefit of a longer wheelbase is that it reduces the amount of torque on the suspension system, which can help reduce wear and tear over time. Therefore, when selecting vehicle options, it is important to consider the wheelbase length to ensure a comfortable and safe ride.

10. All-wheel drive

All-wheel drive (AWD) is an important option to consider when selecting a vehicle because it provides improved traction and control on wet, snowy, and icy roads. In AWD systems, power is sent to all four wheels, providing improved control and stability. This is beneficial for off-roading and extreme weather conditions, as the AWD system prevents slipping and sliding on slippery surfaces. In addition, AWD vehicles can accelerate and brake faster, as the system distributes power to the wheels that need it the most. AWD systems also help to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, as the engine does not have to work as hard to deliver power. Ultimately, an AWD option provides improved safety, comfort, and control in all weather conditions, making it a valuable choice for drivers who live in areas with more extreme climates.

11. Powertrain options

The powertrain options for vehicles can be broken down into several categories. Mechanical and Powertrain options include engine displacement, camshaft design, aspiration system, gross vehicle weight rating, drive system (front-wheel, rear-wheel, all-wheel drive), shock absorber, coil spring, wishbone, and anti-roll bar systems, fuel tank size, and brake system design.

Safety options include airbag number, design and location, tire pressure warning system, rear child safety locks, airbag occupancy sensor, seatbelt pretensioners, back-up camera, and more.

Interior options may include seat movement options, rear bench folding layout, cup holders and bins, air conditioning type and zones, illuminated areas, interior trim materials, carpets number and material, cargo features, trays, organizers, trip computer, temperature gauge, and 12V DC power outputs.

Exterior options may include spare wheel or compact spare tire, tire changing tools, bumper colors, wheel well trim color, chrome accents, window wipers and defrosters, tinted glass, roof racks, grille material and color, LED lights, and more.

The last six digits of the VIN will contain factory options information, which may include trim, traction control, blind spot sensors, rear-view cameras, and parallel-park assist. Additionally, engine and transmission specifications, standard installed equipment, and factory warranty information for drive train and safety systems as reported by the vehicle’s manufacturer may also be included.

12. Emissions specifications

Emissions specifications are important when considering vehicle options, as they give an indication of how much pollution is released from the vehicle’s exhaust. The emissions specifications for a vehicle can be found in the tech specs section of the vehicle’s manual. In general, the lower the emissions, the better for the environment.

When comparing the emissions specifications of different vehicle options, it is important to look at the amount of emissions released per unit of distance. It is also important to consider the type of fuel used in the vehicle and the type of pollutant being released. Different vehicles can have different levels of emissions, and some may be better than others in certain categories. It is important to compare these details in order to make an informed decision.

13. Vehicle descriptor section

When choosing a vehicle descriptor, there are several features to consider. Firstly, you should look at the World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) which is the first three characters of the VIN. This tells you the vehicle’s country of origin, manufacturer, and vehicle type. Secondly, the Vehicle Description Section (VDS), which are the next six characters (position 4-9), provide important characteristics and specifications such as the transmission type, engine type and size, etc. Finally, the Vehicle Identification Section (VIS) is the last ten to seventeen characters and this shows the manufacturing plant and the vehicle’s unique serial code. Additionally, you may want to consider the special features such as mechanical and powertrain, safety, interior and exterior, and flexible fuel vehicles which are identified by the 2nd, 3rd and 8th characters.

14. Exterior features

When choosing vehicle options, exterior features such as the bumper color, wheel well trim color, chrome accents, window wipers and defrosters, tinted glass, and roof racks should all be considered. Additionally, it is important to look at the spare wheel or compact spare tire, tire changing tools, LED lights, and grille material and color. Also, be sure to check the colors section of the vehicle to understand the exterior and interior color, as well as the list of colors your vehicle comes with.

15. Interior

The Tesla Model X has an array of interior options, including power adjustable and heated front seats, heated second-row seats, a panoramic windshield, dual-zone climate control, a 12-way power adjustable steering wheel, a 17-inch touchscreen, multiple USB ports, a trip computer, a temperature gauge, and storage compartments. In terms of exterior options, the Tesla Model X comes with a chrome grille, tinted glass, a spare wheel or compact spare tire, bumper colors, wheel well trim colors, and LED lights. For safety, the Tesla Model X has airbags in multiple locations, a rear child safety lock, airbag occupancy sensors, and seatbelt pretensioners.

16. Safety features

When choosing vehicle options, it is important to consider the safety features offered. These can include airbags and their location, tire pressure warning systems, rear child safety locks, airbag occupancy sensors, seatbelt pretensioners, a back-up camera, and a trip computer. It is also important to ensure that the vehicle has a strong and secure brake system design, shock absorber and anti-roll bar systems, and a tire changing tool should a flat occur. Additionally, features like LED lights, tinted glass, and roof racks can improve visibility and safety. Finally, some luxury features like heated and leather seats, illuminated glove boxes and containers, and temperature gauges can provide enhanced comfort and convenience.

17. Warranty and maintenance

When purchasing a new car, it’s important to consider the warranty and maintenance implications of any additional options that you might add. The factory warranty covers the car you purchased from the dealership and any standard installed equipment. However, if you add any aftermarket items, it can void the warranty in some cases. It’s also important to remember that any services completed outside of an established shop won’t appear on online reports and may not be covered by the warranty.

On the other hand, you can call a dealership or the manufacturer, which can provide you with more comprehensive information about the service history and warranties for your vehicle. Additionally, MyCarMakesNoise.com offers a variety of resources that you can use to gain better understanding and knowledge of your car, as well as help you with your maintenance needs.

18. Pricing data

When choosing vehicle options for a vehicle, it is important to consider several factors including the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), option values, factory vehicle warranty information, safety information, color guide information, vehicle valuation information reported from leading sources, the original factory window sticker data, and the Vehicle Descriptor Section of the VIN.

MSRP is the suggested retail price for the vehicle, and option values are the price for each option or package for that vehicle. Factory vehicle warranty information helps to ensure that the vehicle is covered for any problems or issues that may arise. Safety information gives an idea of the quality of the vehicle, as well as the quality of the options and packages included. Color guide information is important to consider when selecting the color of the vehicle. Vehicle valuation information reported from leading sources can give an idea of the trade-in, retail, and other values and value ranges of the vehicle.

The original factory window sticker data provides information such as factory options packages and pricing, new MSRP price, engine and transmission specifications, standard features and equipment, fuel economy rating, and factory recalls. Finally, the Vehicle Descriptor Section of the VIN can give information about when it was produced, and what options it comes with.

Considering all of these pricing data and making sure to compare and contrast them can help in making an informed decision when choosing vehicle options.

19. Towing capacity

The towing capacity of a vehicle is an important factor to consider when choosing vehicle options. It is important to know the maximum amount of weight the vehicle can safely tow, as the wrong towing capacity could result in dangerous driving conditions. It is also important to know the trailering limits, such as tongue, distributing hitch, and deadweight hitch, as these limits may affect the overall towing capacity of the vehicle. Knowing the correct towing capacity is also necessary to ensure that you do not overload the vehicle, as this can lead to mechanical issues and reduce the vehicle’s fuel economy. Highly rated towing capacity is also an important factor to consider when determining the overall value of a vehicle. Knowing the towing capacity of a vehicle is essential in order to make an informed decision when choosing vehicle options.

20. Weight and load capacity

When choosing vehicle options, it is important to consider the weight and load capacity of the vehicle. Gross vehicle weight rating is an important factor to take into account, as it is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle and its cargo, including passengers and other items. The EPA classification and base curb weight will also provide insight into the vehicle’s weight capabilities. Max towing capacity and trailering limits should also be taken into account, as they will determine the weight of the load that can be pulled and driven safely. Additionally, cargo features, trays, and organizers such as roof racks and wheel well trims should be taken into account, as they will impact the total weight of the vehicle. Lastly, the powertrain specifications, including engine displacement and camshaft design, should be considered, as the engine is the most important factor in determining the vehicle’s weight and load capacity.

How to Find Out the Original Factory Options for a Vehicle Using the VIN

Step 1: Find out what options were originally included in the vehicle

It can be difficult to find out what options were originally included in a vehicle, especially if you are buying a used car or inheriting one. However, the best solution to this problem is by using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Here are the steps to follow to identify the options your car was ordered with:

Obtain the VIN number of the vehicle.

Enter the VIN into an electronic VIN decoder (see Resource section). The fourth through eighth digits of the VIN will contain factory options information.

Visit the manufacturer’s website, typically they list all the available options on a vehicle. This will tell you what options or upgrade packages were available for your make and model of car.

If the manufacturer’s website does not offer such a resource, call the dealership or manufacturer if you still want to find out your specific vehicle’s factory options. Provide them with the VIN, and ask them to tell you the options information. They will be able to do so by running the VIN through their computer system.

By following these steps, you can identify what options were originally included in your vehicle. Knowing this information can be beneficial if you are trying to sell the car, as it could increase the car’s value, or if the car’s engine was upgraded, that could make a big difference in your insurance premium.

Step 2: Collect the receipts for all the original equipment purchases

The best way to determine the original factory options for a vehicle using the VIN is to collect the following receipts and documents:

Vehicle’s registration: This document will include the VIN of the vehicle, as well as basic information about the car.

Car’s title: This document will also include the VIN and other information about the vehicle.

Insurance policies: Insurance policies can provide information about the car’s history, including any damages or injury it may have sustained.

Maintenance records: If a car has been serviced, the maintenance records can tell you what was done, as well as when.

Owner’s manual: The owner’s manual may include the VIN, as well as information about the car’s factory options.

Maintenance schedule: The maintenance schedule will outline what services should be done and when.

Warranty information: The warranty information will detail any warranties that come with the car and can help you identify original factory options.

Parts & Accessories Catalogs: Parts & accessories catalogs can help you determine the original factory options for a vehicle.

Once you have all of these documents, you can use them to run a report online or call the dealership or manufacturer to get more information. It’s important to remember to take any reports with a grain of salt since bookkeeping can sometimes be out of order. With all this information, you’ll be able to accurately identify the original factory options for a vehicle using the VIN.

Step 3: Check online databases and websites for information

If you want to find out the original factory options for a vehicle, you can check various online databases and websites for information using the VIN. Here are the steps you can follow to do this:

Step 1: Find the VIN number of the vehicle. The VIN can usually be found on the dashboard of the car, the driver’s side door, the registration documents, and the insurance card. It is important to get the number exactly as it appears.

Step 2: Head to the internet and search for a free VIN lookup service. There are several websites that offer free VIN lookup services, such as the one provided by the United States Department of Transportation.

Step 3: Conduct a search by entering the VIN and hitting enter. The website will then generate a VIN report for the number you submitted.

Step 4: Get the report. The vehicle history report should answer all of your questions and provide you with the original factory options for your vehicle.

Step 5: Other sources of information. You can also get information from government agencies, auto manufacturers, car clubs, auto dealerships, and other online databases. You can also talk to previous owners or family members of previous owners to get stories about the car and information about where it was driven and how it was used. For older cars, consider consulting the Standard Catalog of American Cars.

Step 4: Ask a friend or family member if they know anything about the car

Step 1: Gather the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can find the VIN on the driver’s side dashboard, on the door jamb, on the vehicle’s title, insurance documents, proof of registration, and sometimes on the owner’s manual.

Step 2: Research the history of the car. You can do so by looking for information online via the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS), state Bureau or Department of Motor Vehicles, auto manufacturers, car clubs, auto dealerships, and other online databases. You can also attend car shows and ask the fans and experts of classic cars, talk to previous owners and their family members, and look for information in books like the Standard Catalog of American Cars.

Step 3: Ask a friend or family member. If you know someone who has owned the car before or who has been around it for a while, ask them what they know about it. Ask them who owned it before them, how it was used, and if there were any major repairs that had to be done.

Step 4: Contact the dealership or manufacturer. You can call any manufacturer dealership’s service department, provide them with the VIN, and ask them to tell you the options information. They will be able to do so by running the VIN through their computer system. This can tell you about any warranties left on the vehicle, as well as any recalls.

Following these steps will help you gain valuable information about your car using the VIN. It is always important to research the car before making a purchase, and this is a great way to do so.

Step 5: Check newspaper archives or online publications to find out more information

The best way to find out more information about the original factory options for a vehicle using the VIN is to run an independent vehicle history search to retrieve a VIN report. Here are the steps to do so:

Step 1: Get the VIN. Find the VIN number on your car and make sure to write it down exactly as it appears.

Step 2: Head to the internet. Go to the car manufacturer’s website to look for their VIN decoder tool or use a free VIN lookup service provided by the United States Department of Transportation.

Step 3: Conduct a search. Choose the option to search by VIN and enter the VIN into the search bar.

Step 4: Get the report. The website will generate the VIN report for the number you submitted and should answer all of your questions. Carfax is often labeled the best VIN check website, but you can also get almost the same results from the National Insurance Crime Bureau, VehicleHistory, and iSeeCars websites.

Step 6: ConsultFactory-option.com to find out which options are available

ConsultFactory-option.com is a website that can be used to easily find out which factory options are available for a vehicle using the VIN. Here are the steps on how to use the website.

Go to ConsultFactory-option.com and enter the VIN of your vehicle in the search box.

The website will then show a list of all the factory options that are available for your vehicle.

You can then select the options that you want to add to your vehicle.

Finally, you can purchase the options by clicking the “buy now” button.

By using ConsultFactory-option.com, you can quickly and easily find out which factory options are available for your vehicle. This can be a great way to ensure that your vehicle is equipped with all the features that you want.

Step 7: Use VinChecker to find out what numbers and letters refer to different options

VinChecker can help you find out what options are available for a vehicle using the VIN. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Get the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle you are interested in.

Step 2: Go to a website that offers VIN decoding. VinChecker is one of the most reliable and comprehensive VIN decoders available.

Step 3: Input the VIN you obtained in Step 1 into VinChecker’s VIN Decoder.

Step 4: Analyze the output of the VIN Decoder. VinChecker will provide you with all the information available on the vehicle, including the vehicle’s factory options.

Step 5: Make sure all the information matches what you have been told about the vehicle and if anything is off, double check with the dealership or manufacturer’s service number to make sure all the information is accurate.

By using VinChecker, you can easily find out what options are available for a vehicle using the VIN. This helps you to avoid getting ripped off and make an informed decision when it comes to buying or selling a vehicle.

Step 8: Use Google search combinations such as “VIN number history” to find relevant information

If you are looking for information about the original factory options for a vehicle using the VIN, you can use Google search combinations to help you. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Step 1: Find the VIN number of the vehicle. This can usually be found on the driver side door jamb or the dashboard.

Step 2: Once you have the VIN number, use Google to search for the VIN plus the term “options”. You can also search for “VIN decoder” plus the make and model of the vehicle to find vehicle history websites that offer VIN decoder services.

Step 3: Look through the results and see if any of the websites or search results can offer you the information you are looking for. Some websites may provide a free VIN report but others may require payment.

Step 4: If you find a website with the information you are looking for, enter the VIN number and generate the VIN report. The vehicle history report should provide you with the original factory options for the vehicle.

By following these steps, you can use Google search combinations to find information about the original factory options for a vehicle using the VIN. This can provide you with valuable insight into the vehicle’s history and can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a used vehicle.

Step 9: Read customer reviews of similar models to get an idea of the quality experience

Step 1: Visit the website of the car manufacturer of the vehicle you are interested in purchasing.

Step 2: Use the search bar to find the specific model you are looking for.

Step 3: Once you are on the model’s product page, look for the “Reviews” section.

Step 4: Click on the “See all reviews” link to read all the reviews from customers who have purchased the same model.

Step 5: Read through the reviews to get an idea of the quality experience of the car. Pay attention to specific details that customers have shared about the model and their experiences with it.

Step 6: After reading the reviews, you can make an informed decision about the quality experience of the vehicle before making a purchase.

Step 10: Compare different possible vehicles from the same manufacturer based on the numbers and letters found during steps 6 and 7

Comparing different vehicles from the same manufacturer using the numbers and letters found in steps 6 and 7 of the VIN decoding process is a relatively simple process. First, locate the fourth through eighth digits of the VIN. These digits are the vehicle descriptor section, and contain information about the model, body type, restraint system, transmission type, and engine code. This information will help to identify the various features of the vehicles that you are comparing.

Next, look at the tenth letter or number of the VIN. This will tell you the model year of the vehicle according to the table provided. This is important, as it can help to narrow down the possible vehicles that you are comparing.

Now, you can begin to compare the vehicles by looking at the different features that correspond to the numbers and letters in the vehicle descriptor section. For example, if you are comparing two cars, you can look at the fourth through eighth digits of the VINs and compare the body type, engine code, and transmission type. This will tell you what features each vehicle has, and allow you to compare them.

Finally, it is important to look at the ninth digit of the VIN, which is the check digit. This helps to detect invalid VINs, so you want to make sure that the check digit is correct on each vehicle that you are comparing.

By following the steps outlined here, you can easily compare different possible vehicles from the same manufacturer, based on the numbers and letters found in the VIN.