Model Year
The model year is the year a manufacturer assigns to a vehicle version, which may differ from the calendar year it was built.
What is Model Year?
A new model year often starts in the second half of the previous calendar year. The VIN usually encodes it. Parts and recalls are often listed by model year. Facelifts often coincide with a new model year, but small changes like new colours or equipment can also come with it. Recall notices list affected model years and production dates.
How it works
Manufacturers use it to track specification changes.
Why it matters for your car
Use the model year when ordering parts. Registration date may differ.
Other terms
- Battery Warning Light (Charging Light)
- Cabin Air Filter
- Cylinder Block (Engine Block)
- Distilled Water (Demineralised Water)
- Engine Swap
- EVAP System
- Four-Stroke Engine
- Iron Fallout Remover
- Lead Loading (Body Solder)
- Lead Replacement Additive
- New Car Warranty
- Overrun Brake (Trailer Inertia Brake)
- Rear-View Mirror (Interior Mirror)
- Retreaded Tyre
- Top Dead Centre (TDC)
- Tow Eye (Towing Hook)
- Trailer Stability Control (Trailer Sway Control)
- Transmission Fluid (ATF)
- Valve Stem Seal
- Wheel Cylinder