Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Vehicle Identification
The vehicle identification number (VIN) plate is the legal identifier of the vehicle. The VIN plate is located on the upper LH corner of the instrument panel. The VIN number can be seen through the windshield from the outside of the vehicle:
| Position | Definition | Character | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Country of Origin | 1 2 |
United States Canada |
| 2 | Manufacturer | G | General Motors |
| 3 | Make | B C D T |
Chevrolet Incomplete Chevrolet Truck GMC Incomplete GMC Truck |
| 4 | GVWR/Brake System | E F G H J |
6001-7000/Hydraulic 7001-8000/Hydraulic 8001-9000/Hydraulic 9001-10000/Hydraulic 10001-14000/Hydraulic |
| 5 | Truck Line/Chassis Type | C K |
4x2 4x4 |
| 6 | Series | 1 2 6 |
Half Ton Nominal 3/4 Ton Nominal 1/2 Ton Luxury |
| 7 | Body Type | 3 4 9 |
Four-Door Crew Cab or Utility Two-Door Cab Extended Cab |
| 8 | Engine Type | X V Z T U N 1 G 2 - |
4.3L V6 MFI (LU3) 4.8L V8 MFI (LR4) 5.3L V8 MFI (L59) 5.3L V8 MFI (LM7) 6.0L V8 MFI (LQ4) 6.0L V8 MFI (LQ9) 6.6L V8 DSL (LB7) 8.1L V8 MFI (L18) 6.6L V8 DSL (LLY) 5.7L V8 CPI (L31) |
| 9 | Check Digit | - | Check Digit |
| 10 | Model Year | 4 | 2004 |
| 11 | Plant Location | 1 E F Z G |
Oshawa, Ontario Pontiac, Michigan Flint, Michigan Fort Wayne, Indiana Silao |
| 12-17 | Plant Sequence Number | - | Plant Sequence Number |
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.