How to Decode a 1962 Chevy Impala's VIN Number
by Daryl Potter
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the 1962 Chevy Impala provides detailed information on the car's model, assembly and specifications. Chevrolet car models from 1959 to 1964 used a 12-character VIN code; decoding this VIN is a simple process and can be done in a matter of minutes.
Step 1
Determine the first character of the car's VIN; this character indicates the car's model year. For the 1962 Chevy Impala, this character should be a "2."
Step 2
Determine the second and third characters of the car's VIN code; these characters indicate the car's model line. For the 1962 Chevy Impala, a "17" would indicate the Impala L6 Turbo Thrift series and an "18" would indicate the Impala V8 Turbo series.
Step 3
Determine the fourth and fifth characters of the car's VIN code; these characters indicate the car's body type. For the 1962 Chevy Impala, popular variations include the two-door convertible ("67"), two-door coupe ("37" or "47"), two-door hardtop ("11" or "21"), four-door sedan ("49" or "69") and four-door station wagon ("35" or "45").
Step 4
Determine the sixth character of the car's VIN code; this character indicates the location of the assembly plant. Please see the Resources section below for a more detailed list.
Step 5
Determine the seventh through 12fth characters of the car's VIN code; these characters indicate the car's production sequence number as it was completed at the assembly plant. Note that the first production number for the 1962 Chevy Impala is "100001."
References
Writer Bio
Based in Los Angeles, Daryl Potter has been writing since 2005. His coverage of U.S. public policy and politics has appeared in several academic journals. Potter holds a B.A. in political science from the University of San Diego, as well as a master's degree in international relations.
