Replacing Factory VIN Plates on Japanese Cars: Honda, Nissan, Subaru
Factory VIN plates on Japanese vehicles serve an important role in identifying the car and preserving its original documentation. These aluminum tags contain not only the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) but also vital technical data — such as engine model, body type, paint code, and other manufacturer-specific information. For brands like Honda, Nissan, and Subaru, the VIN plate is part of the vehicle’s factory heritage. In this article, we’ll explain when a VIN plate replacement is needed, how it is done, and what standards must be followed.
What Is a VIN Plate and Why Is It Important?
A factory VIN plate is an aluminum tag riveted or bolted to the vehicle’s body. It serves the following purposes:
- Identifies the vehicle (VIN, model, year),
- Confirms compliance with manufacturer standards,
- Required for registration, customs clearance, and servicing.
Without the original or an accurate replacement plate, problems may arise during resale, registration, or inspection.
Where Are VIN Plates Located on Japanese Cars?
- Honda – usually in the engine bay, on the firewall or inner fender.
- Nissan – on the B-pillar or under the hood.
- Subaru – on the radiator support or upper firewall under the hood.
What Information Is on a VIN Plate?
While the layout may differ by brand, a typical plate includes:
- VIN number,
- Model code,
- Engine and transmission,
- Body color and trim codes,
- Manufacturing plant,
- Body type,
- Sometimes: gross weight or build date.
When Should a VIN Plate Be Replaced?
- After replacing the body or structural components,
- During restoration after an accident,
- If the original plate is rusted, damaged, or missing,
- When importing a vehicle without a factory tag,
- For full restoration of vintage or collector vehicles.
How to Replace a VIN Plate to OEM Standards?
Lazer Sticker VIN produces custom aluminum VIN plates for Japanese vehicles with high accuracy and attention to detail.
We provide:
- Laser engraving on anodized aluminum,
- Correct dimensions and shape matching OEM,
- Custom data fields based on photos, VIN, or registration,
- A set of OEM-style rivets for installation,
- Production in 1–2 days and worldwide shipping.
Why Choose Lazer Sticker VIN?
- Plates available for Japanese, European, and U.S. vehicles,
- Over 20,000 successful orders since 2018,
- Exact fonts, layout, and factory markings,
- Weather-resistant, long-lasting materials,
- Up to 5 years durability warranty.