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Vehicle Certification (VC) Label: Notes

Fig 1: Vehicle Certification (VC) Label Locator
G02780562Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

The vehicle certification (VC) label contains the manufacturer name, the month and year of manufacture, the certification statement, and the VIN. It also includes gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR).

Fig 2: Vehicle Certification (VC) Label
G02780563Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 3: Exterior Paint Code
G02780564Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Paint codes may be listed as a two-part code. The first set of characters listed indicate the vehicle primary body color. The second set of characters listed (if applicable) indicate a two-tone or accent body color. All colors are base coat/clear coat.

Fig 4: Wheelbase
G02780565Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 5: Interior Trim Code
G02780566Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Interior trim codes are listed as a two-part code. The first character identifies the trim type. The second character identifies the interior trim color.

Trim Type 

Interior Trim Color 

Fig 6: Tape/Paint Stripe
G02780567Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Tape and paint stripe codes do not apply.

Fig 7: Radio Type
G02780568Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 8: Axle Code
G02780569Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 9: Transmission Code
G02780570Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 10: Spring Codes
G02780571Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Spring codes are listed as a two-part code. The first character listed identifies the front spring. The second code listed identifies the rear spring or load leveling system.

Front Springs 

Rear Springs 

Fig 11: Powertrain Calibration Information
G02780572Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
NOTE: Powertrain calibration information is limited to a maximum of five characters per line on the Vehicle Certification (VC) Label. Because of this, calibration identification consisting of more than five characters will wrap to the second line on the VC label.

Powertrain calibration information is printed in the lower right corner of the Vehicle Certification (VC) Label. Only the base calibration information is printed. Revision levels will not appear, however, they can be found in On Line Automotive Service Information System (OASIS). For the current model year, Ford Motor Company is using three different protocols which describe powertrain base calibration. These protocols are designed to provide worldwise standardization for vehicle calibration. If the electronic calibration strategy has been used since 1998 and carried into the current model year, Protocol 1 will be used. Refer to Fig 12 below. If the electronic calibration strategy has been used since 1999 and is carried into the current model year, Protocol 2 will be used. Refer to Fig 13 below. For electronic calibration strategies introduced in the 2000 or later model years, use Protocol 3. Refer to Fig 14 below.

Fig 12: Protocol 1
G02780573Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 13: Protocol 2
G02780574Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fig 14: Protocol 3
G02780575Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.