Interpreting VIN

Oct 08, 2004 5 Replies

I'm buying a 2001 Passat over the internet. When I plug the VIN into carfax, it comes back as a 4motion, which I believe is a 6 cylinder. The dealer says it is a 1.8 turbo. How do I interpret the VIN to know for sure?


Just open the hood and see which engine is there? If you are unsure what each engine looks like just ask the dealer to show you. I would think the dealer knows more about the car than carfax does. Carfax has only one interest, which is generating $$$$$$$$ for itself. Here in the USA all 2001

4-motions were 2.8l V6's.

He said it's over the internet (so he probably can't see the car in person).

Yes the VIN does tell you which engine. E-mail me the VIN and will check it out.

If it's in the US, and it's an '01, and a 4Motion, I believe it *has* to be a V6. 4Motion was not available on 1.8T models until a year or two ago.

-- Mike Smith

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required