Subaru VIN Decoder
Decode any Subaru VIN free — model, year, engine, drivetrain and assembly plant — then check Subaru recalls. Data straight from NHTSA, no signup.
About Subaru VINs
Subaru VINs often encode the horizontally-opposed (boxer) engine and symmetrical all-wheel-drive layout; U.S. cars are built in Indiana.
Subaru (Japan) vehicles use the standard 17-character VIN from 1981 onward. Paste yours above to read exactly what it encodes for your specific unit.
Popular Subaru models
Subaru recall lookup
Check open NHTSA safety recalls for a Subaru by model and year.
Free, from NHTSA. To confirm whether one specific vehicle’s recall is still unrepaired, use the VIN-level tool at NHTSA.gov.
Subaru VIN — FAQ
How do I decode a Subaru VIN for free?
Enter your Subaru’s 17-character VIN in the tool above. It returns the model, year, body style, engine and assembly plant decoded from NHTSA’s public database — no signup or payment.
Where is the VIN on a Subaru?
On most Subaru vehicles, check the base of the windshield (driver’s side), the driver’s door jamb, and your registration and insurance documents.
Can I check Subaru recalls by VIN?
You can check open Subaru recalls by model and year with the recall lookup on this page. To confirm whether a specific Subaru still has an unrepaired recall, use the VIN-level tool at NHTSA.gov.
Does the decoder show Subaru trim and options?
Sometimes. NHTSA data includes trim for some Subaru models but not all, and it does not include full option packages — those require the window sticker or a paid build sheet.
Decode other makes
New to VINs? Read how to decode a VIN or decoder vs. history report.