IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON IDENTIFICATION LABELS OR PLATES

Over the past years Ford has offered a multitude of models, a wide choice of optional equipment, and hundreds of power-train options. And, it has been said that Ford could run its production lines for a complete year and never build the exact same model twice (interior / exterior color, trim, comfort and convenience accessories, ect.). This statement seems highly reasonable when you dig into all the possible combinations that are available.

    Your ability to "read and understand" either the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Plate  or the Safety Standard Certification Label plays an important role in servicing these models.

    This Knowledge is vital when you are called upon to maintain the vehicle and its emission control systems. Being able to "interpret" the code system Ford used in prior years will help you to eliminate lost time, avoid confusion, and prevent ordering incorrect parts or components.

LOCATION OF CAR IDENTIFICATION LABELS AND METAL PLATES

   The Safety Standard Certification Label for Ford-built passenger cars is located either on the Lock Face of the Left Door or the Door Pillar.

READING THE D.S.O. (SPECIAL EQUIPMENT) CODES.

    Many vehicles such as police cars, taxis and special order trucks have customer requested equipment installed at the factory, and are identified by a Domestic Special Order code (D.S.O.)

    D.S.O. codes have been stamped into truck plates since 1957 and passenger cars since 1962. In addition, all vehicles delivered since January 1962 with special equipment, have a blue envelope in the glove box containing a copy of the Special Equipment Parts List used on that particular vehicle. The selling dealer also has a yellow copy.

    A typical D.S.O. number might be 13-0645. In breaking this number down, the (13) indicates the District (in this example, New York) in which the vehicle was delivered. The (0645) indicates it was he 645th vehicle with special equipment delivered for that year. On some plates you may find a D.S.O. number such as (13-) without a second series of numbers. That is NOT a vehicle with special equipment. The number (13), for example, refers only to the District (New York) in which the vehicle was delivered.

    To order special equipment parts for vehicles delivered after January 1962, simply use the D.S.O. parts list in the glove box. If this list is not available then use the D.S.O. code on the Rating Plate or the Certification Label. If neither is available, give your Ford or Lincoln-Mercury Parts Manager any information stamped or stenciled on the part you need. He, in turn, can then deliver the correct part you request.

OFFICIAL VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER-OF05M130122

    The official Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for title registration purposes is stamped on an aluminum tab that is riveted to the instrument panel close to the windshield on the drivers side of the car and is visible from outside. The first number indicates the model year. The letter following indicates the assembly plant from witch the car was made. The next two numbers designate the body style followed by the letter code for the engine. The last six numbers of the VIN. are the consecutive unit numbers for that model car.

VIN NUMBER 0F05M130122