ToolviaSubaru VIN decoder
Subaru builds cars in Japan and in Lafayette, Indiana, and the VIN shows which. JF1 and JF2 come from Japan, while 4S3 and 4S4 come from Indiana, where models like the Outback and Ascent are built.
One of the most common reasons people decode a Subaru VIN is to find the engine. Enter the full VIN and the report shows the engine size and type, along with recalls and owner complaints.
Subaru manufacturer codes (WMI)
The first three characters of a Subaru VIN are its World Manufacturer Identifier. These are the ones you’re most likely to see on vehicles sold in the United States:
| VIN starts with | Meaning |
|---|---|
JF1 | Subaru cars built in Japan |
JF2 | Subaru SUVs and crossovers built in Japan |
4S3 | Subaru cars built in Indiana |
4S4 | Subaru SUVs built in Indiana |
Not sure what the rest of the characters mean? Our guide to what each digit in a VIN means walks through all 17, and the VIN year chart shows how to read the model year from the 10th character.
How to read a Subaru VIN
Finding the engine type
Subaru encodes the engine inside positions 4 through 8. Rather than learning the codes, decode the VIN: the report shows the displacement and whether the engine is turbocharged, which is how you tell, for example, a WRX from a regular Impreza.
Car or crossover
JF1 is used for cars like the Impreza, WRX and BRZ. JF2 covers crossovers such as the Forester and Crosstrek. 4S3 and 4S4 are the Indiana equivalents.
Head gasket years
If you’re looking at an older Subaru, the model year and engine matter for known issues. Decode the VIN, then check the owner complaints section to see which problems owners have reported for that exact year.
Before you buy a used Subaru: what to check with the VIN
Once you’ve decoded the VIN, these are the Subaru-specific things worth comparing against the listing.
Turbo or not?
A turbocharged Subaru, like a WRX or an XT model, usually costs more than its non-turbo sibling. The decoded engine details show which one you\u2019re looking at.
All-wheel drive is standard, almost
Nearly every Subaru has all-wheel drive, with the rear-wheel-drive BRZ as the well-known exception. The Drive type row confirms it.
Read complaints by model year
Some older Subaru engines have well-known issues. Decode the VIN, then read the owner complaints for that exact model year before you buy.
Where to find the VIN on a Subaru
Check the dashboard through the windshield on the driver’s side first, then the label on the driver’s door jamb. The VIN is also printed on the title, registration and insurance card. See all the places to look.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find the engine in a Subaru by VIN?
Enter the VIN above. The report shows the engine size, number of cylinders and, where reported, the turbo or engine model.
What does JF2 mean on a Subaru VIN?
JF2 is the code for Subaru SUVs and crossovers built in Japan, such as the Forester and Crosstrek.
Where is the VIN on a Subaru?
At the bottom of the windshield on the driver’s side and on the label in the driver’s door jamb.
Subaru is a trademark of its owner. Toolvia is an independent site and isn’t affiliated with Subaru. Decoded details come from data the manufacturer reports to NHTSA.