• Y E A R 2 0 0 6 •

PARTS-MARKING 

QUICK REFERENCE 

GUIDE

for the

 LAW ENFORCEMENT 

COMMUNITY
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 

(NHTSA) is responsible for establishing and enforcing 

vehicle antitheft regulations. Motor vehicle theft is a 

growing problem that results in billions of dollars in 

losses every year. NHTSA has developed this annual 

guide to provide the law enforcement community with 

a concise reference tool to help identify passenger 

motor vehicles that are subject to the parts-marking 

requirements through model year 2006 and also to 

assist law enforcement in their prosecution and motor 

vehicle theft prevention efforts. This new guide also 

provides a quick-reference, comprehensive summary 

of the vehicles that have been installed with an 

antitheft device as standard equipment identifying 

which vehicles are exempted from the parts-marking 

requirements, the type of exemption granted (partial 

or full), and the production year(s) for which the 

exemption applies. 

For additional copies of the guide, please mail 

your request to the National Highway Traffic Safety 

Administration, Room 5320, NVS-131, 400 Seventh 

Street SW., Washington, DC 20590. You may also fax 

your request to 202-493-2290 or order online at: www.

nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/enforce/PartsMarkingWeb/

pages/index.htm.

FOREWORD

i
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 

FOREWORD..................................................... i

VEHICLE MANUFACTURERS

ALFA ROMEO............................................... 2

AUSTIN ROVER ........................................... 2

BMW ............................................................. 2

CONSULIER ................................................. 2

DAEWOO...................................................... 2

DAIMLERCHRYSLER................................... 4

FERRARI ...................................................... 6

FORD............................................................ 6

GENERAL MOTORS .................................... 8

HONDA ....................................................... 16

HYUNDAI.................................................... 18

ISUZU ......................................................... 18

JAGUAR...................................................... 20

KIA............................................................... 20

LOTUS ........................................................ 20

MASERATI .................................................. 20

MAZDA........................................................ 22

MERCEDES-BENZ .................................... 22

MITSUBISHI................................................ 28

NISSAN....................................................... 30

PEUGEOT .................................................. 32

PORSCHE .................................................. 32

SAAB........................................................... 32

SUBARU ..................................................... 32

SUZUKI....................................................... 34

TOYOTA...................................................... 34

VOLKSWAGEN........................................... 36

BACKGROUND............................................ 40
2 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 3

VEHICLE LINES SUBJECT TO THE PARTS-MARKING REQUIREMENTS

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

ALFA ROMEO

Milano 161 (M & R) 1988–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

164 (M & R) 1990–1995 Not produced after MY 1995.

AUSTIN ROVER

Sterling FULL 1987–1991 Not produced after MY 1991.

BMW

3 Car Line1 (M & R) 1987–1998 FULL 1999–2006

5 Car Line2 (M & R) 1987–1996 FULL 1997–2006

6 Car Line3 (M & R) 1987-1989 FULL 2004–2006 Production stopped after MY 

1989, but vehicle line was 

reintroduced in MY 2004.

7 Car Line4 (M & R)

(M & R)

1987

1989–1994

FULL

FULL

1988

1995–2006

Exemption was discontinued 

in MY 1989 and resumed with 

MY 1995.

8 Car Line5 FULL 1992–1997 Not produced after MY 1997.

MINI FULL 2002–2006

X5 (MPV) FULL 2000–2006

Z3 (M & R) 1996–2002 Not produced after MY 2002.

Z4 FULL 2003–2006

Z8 (M & R) 2000-2003 Not produced after MY 2003.

CONSULIER

Consulier GTP (M & R) 1991–1995 Not produced after MY 1995.

DAEWOO

 Korando (M & R) 2006

 Musso (MPV) (M & R) 2006

 Nubira (M & R) 2000-2002 Not produced after MY 2002. 

Replaced by the J200 in 

MY 2003. The J200 is not 

subject to the parts-marking 

requirements.

1

 Includes the 318, 323, 325, 328, 330 and M3 models.

2

 Includes the 524, 525, 528, 530, 533, 535, 540, 545, 550 and 

M5 models.

3

 Includes the 633, 635, 645 and 650 models.

4

 Includes the 733, 735, 740, 745, 750 and 760 models.

5

 Includes the 840 and 850 models.
4 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 5

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

DAIMLERCHRYSLER

Chrysler 300C FULL 2006

Chrysler Cirrus (M & R) 1995–2000 Not produced after MY 2000.

Chrysler Conquest FULL 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

Chrysler Fifth 

Avenue/Newport

(M & R) 1987–1993 Not produced after MY 1993.

Chrysler Imperial FULL 1990–1993 Not produced after MY 1993.

Chrysler Laser (M & R) 1987 Not produced after MY 1987.

Chrysler LeBaron 

GTS

(M & R) 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

Chrysler LeBaron/

Town&Country

(M & R) 1987–1995 Not produced after MY 1995.

Chrysler New 

Yorker Fifth Avenue

(M & R) 1990–1993 Not produced after MY 1993.

Chrysler Sebring (M & R) 1995–2006

Chrysler’s TC (M & R) 1989–1991 Not produced after MY 1991.

Chrysler Town & 

Country (MPV)

(M & R) 1997–2004 FULL 2005–2006

Dodge 600 (M & R) 1987–1988 Not produced after MY 1988.

Dodge Aries (M & R) 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

Dodge Avenger (M & R) 1995–2000 Not produced after MY 2000.

Dodge Colt (M & R) 1994 Not produced after MY 1994.

Dodge Daytona (M & R) 1987–1993 Not produced after MY 1993.

Dodge Diplomat (M & R) 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

Dodge Lancer (M & R) 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

Dodge Neon (M & R) 1995–2005 Not produced after MY 2005. 

Dodge Shadow (M & R) 1994 Not produced after MY 1994.

Dodge Stealth (M & R) 1991–1996 Not produced after MY 1996.

Dodge Stratus (M & R) 1995–2006

Eagle Summit (M & R) 1994–1996 Not produced after MY 1996.

Eagle Talon (M & R) 1990–1998 Not produced after MY 1998.

Jeep Cherokee 

(MPV)

(M & R) 1997–2001 Not produced after MY 2001. 

Replaced by the Liberty in MY 

2002.

Jeep Grand 

Cherokee (MPV)

(M & R) 1997–2003 FULL 2004–2006
6 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 7

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

DAIMLERCHRYSLER (continued)

Jeep Liberty (MPV) (M & R) 2002–2006 Replaced the Jeep Cherokee 

in MY 2002.

Jeep Wrangler 

(MPV)

(M & R) 1997–2006

Plymouth Breeze (M & R) 1996–2000 Not produced after MY 2000.

Plymouth Caravelle (M & R) 1987–1988 Not produced after MY 1988.

Plymouth Colt (M & R) 1994 Not produced after MY 1994.

Plymouth Gran 

Fury

(M & R) 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

Plymouth Laser (M & R) 1991–1994 Not produced after MY 1994.

Plymouth Neon (M & R) 1995–2001 Not produced after MY 2001.

Plymouth Reliant (M & R) 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

Plymouth 

Sundance

(M & R) 1994 Not produced after MY 1994.

FERRARI

Mondial 8 (M & R) 1987–1993 Not produced after MY 1993.

328 (M & R) 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

FORD 

Aspire (M) 1997 Not produced after MY 1997.

Crown Victoria (M) 1997–2006

Escort (M & R) 1997–2003 Not produced after MY 2003.

Focus FULL 2006

Mustang (M & R) 1987–1998 FULL 1999–2006

Probe (M & R) 1989–1997 Not produced after MY 1997.

Taurus (M) 1997–1999 FULL 2000–2006

Thunderbird (M & R)

(M & R)

1987–1997;

2002–2005

Not produced from MYs 1998 

thru 2001. 

Reintroduced in MY 2002. Not 

produced after MY 2005.

Lincoln Continental (M & R) 1987–2002 Not produced after MY 2002.

Lincoln Mark (M & R) 1987–1998 Not produced after MY 1998.

Lincoln Town Car (M & R) 1987–2002 FULL 2003–2006

Mercury Capri (M & R) 1991–1994 Not produced after MY 1994.

Mercury Cougar (M & R)

(M & R)

1987–1997;

1999–2002

Not produced in MY 1998.

Not produced after MY 2002.
8 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 9

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

FORD (continued)

Mercury Grand 

Marquis

(M) 1997–2001 FULL 2002–2006

Mercury Sable (M) 1997–2000 FULL 2001–2005 Not produced after MY 2005.

Mercury Tracer (M & R) 1997–1999 Not produced after MY 1999.

Merkur Scorpio (M & R) 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

Merkur XR4Ti (M & R) 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

GENERAL MOTORS

Buick LaCrosse/

Century

FULL 2005–2006 Regal/Century renamed 

LaCrosse/Century in MY 

2005. 

Buick LeSabre (M & R) 1987–1999 PARTIAL

FULL

1993–1999

2000–2005

From MYs 1993–1999, partsmarking was required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Renamed the Lucerne in MY 

2006.

Buick Lucerne FULL 2006 LeSabre renamed Lucerne in 

MY 2006. 

Buick Park Avenue (M & R) 1987–1996 PARTIAL

FULL

1992–1996

1997–2005

From MYs 1992–1996, partsmarking was required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Not produced after MY 2005.

Buick Electra (M & R) 1987–1990 Not produced after MY 1990.

Buick Reatta (M & R) 1988–1991 Not produced after MY 1991.

Buick Regal (M & R) 1988–1995 FULL 1996–2004 Renamed LaCrosse in MY 

2005.

Buick Century (M & R) 1995–1996 Platform change–combined 

with Regal platform beginning 

with MY 1997.

Buick Regal/

Century

FULL 1997–2004 Renamed LaCrosse/ Century 

in MY 2005.

Buick Riviera (M & R) 1987–1994 FULL 1995–1999 Not produced after MY 1999.

Buick Skylark (M & R) 1997–1998 Not produced after MY 1998.

Cadillac Allante (M & R) 1987 FULL 1988–1993 Not produced after MY 1993.

Cadillac Concours (M & R) 1994–2000 PARTIAL 1994–2000 Replaced the Cadillac Sixty 

Special in MY 1994. Requires 

parts-marking for the engine 

and transmission only. Not 

produced after MY 2000.
10 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 11

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

GENERAL MOTORS (continued)

Cadillac Deville (M & R) 1987–1999 PARTIAL

FULL

1991–1999

2000–2005

From MYs 1991–1999, partsmarking was required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Renamed the DTS in MY 

2006. 

Cadillac DTS FULL 2006 Deville renamed the DTS in 

MY 2006. 

Cadillac Eldorado (M & R) 1987–2002 PARTIAL 1994–2002 From MYs 1994–2002, partsmarking is required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Not produced after MY 2002. 

Cadillac Fleetwood (M & R) 1987–1990 PARTIAL 1991–1992 Renamed Sixty Special in MY 

1993. From MYs 1991–1992, 

parts-marking was required for 

the engine and transmission 

only. 

Cadillac Seville (M & R) 1987–1997 PARTIAL

FULL

1994–1997

1998–2004

From MYs 1994–1997, partsmarking was required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Not produced after MY 2004. 

Cadillac Sixty 

Special

(M & R) 1993 PARTIAL 1993 Replaced the Cadillac 

Fleetwood in MY 1993. 

Renamed Concours in MY 

1994. For MY 1993, partsmarking was required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Chevrolet Astro 

(MPV)

(M) 1997–2005 Not produced after MY 2005.

Chevrolet Blazer 

(MPV)

(M & R) 1997–2004 Not produced after MY 2004.

Chevrolet Camaro (M & R) 1987–2002 PARTIAL 1990–2002 From MYs 1990–2002, partsmarking was required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Not produced after MY 2002. 

Chevrolet Cavalier FULL 1997–2005 Not produced after MY 2005.

Chevrolet Classic FULL 2004 Formerly identifi ed as the 

Chevrolet Malibu which was 

produced from MY 1997 

through 2003. 

Chevrolet Cobalt FULL 2005–2006

Chevrolet Corvette FULL 1987–2006
12 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 13

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

GENERAL MOTORS (continued)

Chevrolet Impala/

Monte Carlo

FULL 2000–2006 Replaced the Lumina/ Monte 

Carlo in MY 2000.

Chevrolet Lumina (M & R) 1990–1994 Renamed the Lumina/ Monte 

Carlo in MY 1995.

Chevrolet Lumina/

Monte Carlo

(M & R) 1995 FULL 1996–1999 Monte Carlo nameplate was 

assigned to the 2-door Lumina 

coupe model in MY 1995. 

Renamed Impala/Monte Carlo 

in MY 2000. 

Chevrolet Malibu (M & R) 1997–2000 FULL 2001–2003 Replaced the Corsica 

beginning with MY 1997. The 

Chevrolet Malibu produced 

MY 1997 thru 2003 was 

renamed the Chevrolet 

Classic in MY 2004.

Chevrolet Malibu/ 

Malibu Maxx

FULL 2006

Chevrolet Nova (M & R) 1987–1988 Not produced after MY 1988. 

Replaced by Geo Prizm in 

MY 1989. (The Geo identifi er 

was replaced by the Chevrolet 

make identifi er beginning with 

MY 1998).

Chevrolet Prizm (M & R) 1998–2002 Not produced after MY 2002.

Chevrolet S-10 

Pickup

(M & R) 1997–2004

Chevrolet Tracker 

(MPV)

(M & R) 1998–2004 Not produced after MY 2004.

Chevrolet Uplander 

(MPV)

FULL 2005–2006 Replaced the Venture in MY 

2005.

Chevrolet Venture 

(MPV)

(M & R) 1997–2001 FULL 2002–2004 Renamed Uplander in MY 

2005.

Geo Prizm (M & R) 1989–1997 Replaced the Nova in MY 

1989. The Geo identifi er was 

replaced by the Chevrolet 

make identifi er beginning 

with MY 1998. (Geo Prizm to 

Chevrolet Prizm)

Geo Storm (M & R) 1990–1993 Storm not produced after MY 

1993.
14 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 15

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

GENERAL MOTORS (continued)

Geo Tracker (MPV) (M & R) 1997 The Geo identifi er was 

replaced by the Chevrolet 

make identifi er beginning with 

MY 1998. (Geo Tracker to 

Chevrolet Tracker)

GMC Jimmy (MPV) (M & R) 1997–2001 Not produced after MY 2001. 

Replaced by the GMC Envoy 

in MY 2002. The Envoy line 

is not subject to the partsmarking requirements. 

GMC Safari (MPV) (M) 1997–2005 Not produced after MY 2005.

GMC Sonoma 

Pickup

(M & R) 1997–2004 Not produced after MY 2004.

Oldsmobile Achieva (M & R) 1997–1998 Renamed the Alero in MY 

1999. Achieva not produced 

after MY 1998.

Oldsmobile Alero FULL 1999–2004 Replaced the Achieva in MY 

1999. Not produced after MY 

2004. 

Oldsmobile Aurora FULL

FULL

1995–1999;

2001–2003

Replaced the Oldsmobile 

Toronado in MY 1995. Not 

produced in MY 2000. Not 

produced after MY 2003.

Oldsmobile 

Bravada

(M & R) 1997–2004 Not produced after MY 2004.

Oldsmobile Cutlass (M & R) 1997–1999 Not produced after MY 1999.

Oldsmobile Cutlass 

Supreme

(M & R) 1988–1997 Renamed Intrigue in MY 1998.

Oldsmobile 

Eighty-Eight

(M & R) 1987–1999 PARTIAL 1993–1999 From MYs 1993–1999, partsmarking was required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Not produced after MY 1999.

Oldsmobile Intrigue (M & R) 1998–2002 Replaced the Cutlass 

Supreme in MY 1998. Not 

produced after MY 2002.

Oldsmobile NinetyEight(M & R) 1987–1999 PARTIAL 1991–1999 From MYs 1991–1999, partsmarking was required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Not produced after MY 1999.
16 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 17

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

GENERAL MOTORS (continued)

Oldsmobile 

Toronado

(M & R) 1987–1992 Exemption applied beginning with 

re-introduction of the line as the 

Oldsmobile Aurora in MY 1995.

Toronado not produced 

after MY 1992. 

Reintroduced as 

Oldsmobile Aurora in MY 

1995.

Pontiac Bonneville (M & R) 1987–1999 PARTIAL

FULL

1992–1999

2000–2006

From MYs 1992–1999, partsmarking was required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Pontiac Fiero (M & R) 1987–1988 Not produced after MY 1988.

Pontiac Firebird (M & R) 1987–2002 PARTIAL 1990–2002 From MYs 1991–2002, partsmarking is required for the 

engine and transmission only. 

Not produced after MY 2002.

Pontiac Grand Am (M & R) 1997–1999 FULL 2000–2005 Not produced after MY 2005.

Pontiac Grand Prix (M & R) 1988–2002 FULL 2003–2006

Pontiac Sunfi re (M & R) 1997 FULL 1998–2006

Pontiac Vibe (M & R) 2005–2006

Saturn Sports 

Coupe

(M & R) 1991–2002 Not produced after MY 2002. 

Replaced by the Saturn Ion 

Coupe in MY 2004. The Ion 

is not subject to the partsmarking requirements.

HONDA

Accord (M & R) 1997–2006

Civic/Si/Del Sol (M) 1997–2006 Del Sol not produced after 

MY 1997.

CRV (MPV) (M & R) 1997–2006

Odyssey (MPV) (M & R) 1999–2006

Passport (M & R) 1997–2002 Not produced after MY 

2002. Replaced by the 

Pilot in MY 2003.

Pilot (MPV) (M & R) 2003–2006 Replaced the Passport in 

MY 2003.

Prelude (M & R) 1997–2001 Not produced after MY 

2001. 

S2000 (M & R) 2000–2006

Acura CL (M & R) 2001–2003 FULL 1997–1999 Not produced in MY 2000. 

Not produced after MY 

2003.
18 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 19

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

HONDA (continued)

Acura Integra (M & R) 1997–2001 Not produced after MY 

2001. Replaced by the 

Acura RSX in MY 2002.

Acura Legend (M & R) 1987–1990 FULL 1991–1995 Renamed Acura RL in MY 

1996.

Acura MDX (MPV) (M & R) 2001–2006

Acura NSX (M & R) 2000–2005 FULL 1991–1999 Not produced after MY 

2005.

Acura RL (M & R) 2003–2006 FULL 1996–2002 Replaced the Acura 

Legend in MY 1996.

Acura RSX (M & R) 2002–2006 Replaced the Acura Integra 

in MY 2002. 

Acura SLX (MPV) (M & R) 1998–1999 FULL 1997 Exemption was not used 

in MY 1998 and 1999. Not 

produced after MY 1999.

Acura TL (M & R) 1999–2006 FULL 1995–1998 Replaced the Acura Vigor 

in MY 1995.

Acura Vigor FULL 1992–1994 Renamed the Acura TL in 

MY 1995.

HYUNDAI

Accent (M & R) 1996–2006

Sonata (M & R) 1997–2005 Newly redesigned Sonata 

beginning with MY 2006. 

New Sonata is not subject 

to the parts-marking 

requirements.

Tiburon (M & R) 1998–2006

ISUZU

Amigo (M & R) 1998–2000 Renamed the Rodeo Sport 

in MY 2001.

Axiom (MPV) (M & R) 2002 FULL 2003–2004 Not produced after MY 2004.

Hombre (M & R) 1997–2000 Not produced after MY 2000.

Impulse (M & R) 1987–1993 The Impulse received a full 

exemption beginning MY 

1987; however, the exemption 

was not used. The Impulse is 

required to be parts-marked. 

Not produced after MY 1993. 

Rodeo (M & R) 1997–2004 Not produced after MY 2004.
20 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 21

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

ISUZU (continued)

Rodeo Sport (M & R) 2001–2003 Replaced the Amigo in MY 

2001. Not produced after MY 

2003.

Stylus (M & R) 1991–1993 Not produced after MY 1993.

Trooper/Trooper II (M & R) 1997–2002 Not produced after MY 2002.

VehiCross (MPV) (M & R) 1999–2001 Not produced after MY 2001.

JAGUAR

XJ6 (M & R) 1987–2003 The XJ line was redesigned 

in MY 2004. The MY 2004 XJ 

line is not subject to the partsmarking requirements.

XK7 FULL 1997–2006

KIA

Rio (M & R) 2001–2006

Optima (M & R) 2001–2006

Sephia (M & R) 1998–2002 Not produced after MY 2002.

Spectra (M & R) 2000–2006

LOTUS

Elan (M & R) 1991–1992 Not produced after MY 1992.

MASERATI

Biturbo (M & R) 1987–1991 Not produced after MY 1991.

Quattroporte (M & R) 1987–1991 Not produced after MY 1991.

228 (M & R) 1989–1990 Not produced after MY 1990.

MAZDA

3 FULL 2006

6 FULL 2003–2006 Replaced the 626 in MY 2003.

626 (M & R) 1987–2002 Not produced after MY 2002. 

Replaced by the Mazda 6 in 

MY 2003.

929 FULL 1988–1995 Not produced after MY 1995.

CX-7 FULL 2006

6

 Includes the XJ6, XJ8, XJ12, XJR, XJS and Vanden Plas models.

7

 Includes the XK8 and XKR models.
22 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 23

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

MAZDA (continued)

Millenia FULL 1995–2002 Not produced after MY 2002.

MX-3 (M & R) 1992–1996 Not produced after MY 1996.

MX-5 Miata (M & R) 1990–2004 FULL 2005–2006

MX-6 (M & R) 1988–1997 Not produced after MY 1997.

RX-7 FULL 1988–1995 Not produced after MY 1995.

MERCEDES-BENZ

107 Line 

(SL-Class)8

(M & R) 1987–1989 Replaced by the 129 line 

(SL-Class) in MY 1990.

560SL 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

124 Line 

(E-Class)9

(M & R) 1987–1992 FULL 1993–1995 The 124 line (E-Class) was 

replaced by the 210 line 

(E-Class) in MY 1996. The 

210 line is not subject to the 

parts-marking requirements.

260E 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

300D 1987;

1990–1993

1993 Not produced after MY 1993. 

Replaced by the E300 model 

in MY 1995. 

300E 1987–1992 1993 300E, 300CE and 300TE 

models were renamed the 

E320 model in MY 1994.

300CE 1988–1992 1993 300E, 300CE and 300TE 

models were renamed the 

E320 model in MY 1994.

300TD 1987 Not produced after MY 1987.

300TE 1988–1992 1993 300E, 300CE and 300TE 

models were renamed the 

E320 model in MY 1994.

400E 1992 1993 Renamed the E420 model in 

MY 1994.

500E 1992 1993 Renamed the E500 model in 

MY 1994.

E300 1995 Replaced the 300D model in 

MY 1995. The 124 line E300 

model was not produced after 

MY 1995.

8 Includes the 560SL model.

9 Includes the 260E, 300D, 300E, 300CE, 300TD, 300TE, 400E, 500E, E300, E320, E420 (MYs 1994–1995 only), and E500 models.
24 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 25

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

MERCEDES-BENZ (continued)

124 Line 

(E-Class)9

(continued)

(M & R) 1987–1992 FULL 1993–1995 The 124 line (E-Class) was 

replaced by the 210 line 

(E-Class) in MY 1996. The 

210 line is not subject to the 

parts-marking requirements.

E320 1994–1995 Replaced the 300E, 300CE 

and 300TE models in MY 

1994. The 124 line E320 

model was not produced after 

MY 1995.

E420 1994–1995 Replaced the 400E in MY 

1994. The 124 line E420 

model was not produced after 

MY 1995.

E500 1994–1995 Replaced the 500E in MY 

1994. The 124 line E500 

model was not produced after 

MY 1995.

126 Line 

(S-Class)10

(M & R) 1987–1991 The 126 line (S-Class) was 

replaced by the 140 line 

(S-Class) in MY 1992. The 

140 line (S-Class) is not 

subject to the parts-marking 

requirements.

300SDL 1987 Not produced after MY 1987.

300SE 1988–1991 The 126 line 300SE model 

was not produced after MY 

1991. 

300SEL 1988–1991 The 126 line 300SEL model 

was not produced after MY 

1991.

350SD 1990–1991 The 126 line 350SD model 

was not produced after MY 

1991.

350SDL 1990–1991 The 126 line 350SDL was not 

produced after MY 1991.

420SEL 1987–1991 The 126 line 420SEL was not 

produced after MY 1991.

560SEC 1987–1991 Not produced after MY 1991.

9 Includes the 260E, 300D, 300E, 300CE, 300TD, 300TE, 400E, 500E, E300, E320, E420 (MYs 1994–1995 only), and E500 models. 10 Includes the 300SDL, 300SE (MYs 1988–1991 only), 300SEL, 350SD, 350SDL, 420SEL, 560SEC, and 560SEL models. 
26 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 27

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

MERCEDES-BENZ (continued)

126 Line 

(S-Class)10

(continued)

(M & R) 1987–1991 The 126 line (S-Class) was 

replaced by the 140 line 

(S-Class) in MY 1992. The 

140 line (S-Class) is not 

subject to the parts-marking 

requirements.

560SEL 1987–1991 Not produced after MY 1991.

129 Line 

(SL-Class)11

(M & R) 1990–1992 FULL 1993–2002 Replaced the 107 line (SLClass) in MY 1990. The 129 

line (SL-Class) was replaced 

by the 230 line (SL-Class) in 

MY 2003. The 230 line is not 

subject to the parts-marking 

requirements.

300SL 1990–1992 1993 Not produced after MY 1993. 

Replaced by the SL320 model 

in MY 1994. 

500SL 1990–1992 1993 Renamed the SL500 model in 

MY 1994.

600SL 1992 1993 Renamed the SL600 model in 

MY 1994.

SL320 1994–1997 Replaced the 300SL in MY 

1994. The 129 line SL320 

model was not produced after 

MY 1997.

SL500 1994–2002 Replaced the 500SL in MY 

1994. The 129 line SL500 

model was not produced after 

MY 2002. 

SL600 1994–2002 Replaced the 600SL in MY 

1994. The 129 line SL600 

model was not produced after 

MY 2002.

201 Line 

(190-Class)12

(M & R) 1987–1993 Replaced by the 202 line (CClass) in MY 1994.

190D 1987–1989 Not produced after MY 1989.

190E 1987–1993 Not produced after MY 1993.

10 Includes the 300SDL, 300SE (MYs 1988–1991 only), 300SEL, 350SD, 350SDL, 420SEL, 560SEC, and 560SEL models. 

11 Includes the 300SL, 500SL, 600SL, SL320, SL500, and SL600 models.

12 Includes the 190D and 190E models. 
28 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 29

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

MERCEDES-BENZ (continued)

202 Line 

(C-Class)13

(M & R) 1994–1995 FULL 1996–2000 Replaced the 201 line (190-

Class) in MY 1994. Replaced 

by the 203 line (C-Class) in 

MY 2001. The 203 line is not 

subject to the parts-marking 

requirements.

C220 1994–1995 1996 The 202 line C220 model was 

not produced after MY 1996.

C230 1997–2000 The 202 line C230 model was 

not produced after MY 2000.

C280 1994–1995 1996–2000 The 202 line C280 model was 

not produced after MY 2000.

C36 1995 1996–1997 The 202 line C36 model was 

not produced after MY 1997.

C43 1998–2000 The 202 line C43 model was 

not produced after MY 2000.

E Line Chassis 

(E-Class/CLS 

Class)14

FULL 2006

(E Class)15 2006 The 211 line (E-Class) 

replaced the 210 line (EClass) in MY 2003. The 210 

line was not subject to the 

parts-marking requirements.

(CLS Class)16 2006

MITSUBISHI 

Cordia (M & R) 1987- 1988 Not produced after MY 1988.

Diamante FULL 1993–2004 Not produced after MY 2004.

Eclipse (M & R) 1989–2006

Endeavor FULL 2006

13 Includes the C220, C230, C280, C36, and C43 models.

14 The “E Line Chassis” combined the E-Class (211 line) and the CLS-Class (219 line) in MY 2006.

15 Includes the E55, E320DT CDi, E350 and E500.

16 Includes the CLS 500 and CLS 55.
30 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 31

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

MITSUBISHI (continued)

Galant (M & R) 1987–2005 FULL 2006 The Galant received a full 

exemption beginning MY 

1987. However, Mitsubishi did 

not use its exemption from 

MY 1987 through MY 2005. 

Therefore, parts-marking was 

required for the Galant from 

MY 1987–2005. Exemption 

was used beginning with MY 

2006. 

Mirage (M & R) 1994–2002 Not produced after MY 2002.

Montero (MPV) (M & R) 1997–2006

Montero Sport 

(MPV)

(M & R) 1997–2004 Not produced after MY 2004.

Starion FULL 1987–1990 Not produced after MY 1990.

Tredia (M & R) 1987–1988 Not produced after MY 1988.

3000GT (M & R) 1991–1999 Not produced after MY 1999.

Lancer (M & R) 2002–2006

NISSAN

240SX (M & R) 1997–1998 Not produced after MY 1998.

300ZX FULL 1987–1996 Not produced after MY 1996.

Altima (M & R) 1998–1999 FULL 2000–2006

Stanza/Altima (M & R) 1997 Stanza/Altima renamed Altima 

in MY 1998.

Maxima (M & R) 1995–1998 FULL

FULL

1987–1994;

1999–2006

Exemption was discontinued 

in MY 1995 and resumed with 

MY 1999. 

Pathfi nder (M & R) 1997–2000 FULL 2001–2006

Quest FULL 2006

Sentra/200SX (M & R) 1997–2006 200SX was not produced after 

MY 1998.

Xterra (M & R) 2000–2006

Infi niti G35 FULL 2003–2006

Infi niti I30/I35 FULL 1996–2004 I30 not produced after MY 

2001. I35 not produced after 

MY 2004.

Infi niti J30 FULL 1993–1997 Not produced after MY 1997.

Infi niti M30 FULL 1990–1992 Not produced after MY 1992.
32 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 33

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

NISSAN (continued)

Infi niti M35/M45 (M & R) 2003 FULL 2004, 2006 M35 not produced for MY 

2003-2004. M35 and M45 not 

produced in MY 2005.

Infi niti QX4 FULL 1997–2003 Not produced after MY 2003.

Infi niti Q45 FULL 1990–2006

PEUGEOT

405 (M & R) 1989–1992 Not produced after MY 1992.

PORSCHE

924S (M & R) 1988 Not produced after MY 1988.

911 (M & R)

(M & R)

1987–1989

1994

FULL

FULL

1990–1993

1995–2006

Exemption was discontinued 

in MY 1994 and resumed with 

MY 1995.

928 (M & R) 1987–1989 FULL 1990–1995 Not produced after MY 1995.

968 FULL 1992–1995 Not produced after MY 1995.

Boxster/Cayman FULL 1997–2006 The Cayman model was 

added to the Boxster line in 

MY 2006.

SAAB

9-3 FULL 1999–2006 Replaced the 900 in MY 1999.

900 (M & R) 1987–1993 FULL 1994–1998 Not produced after MY 1998. 

Renamed the 

9-3 in MY 1999.

9000 (M & R) 1987–1988 FULL 1989–1998 Not produced after MY 1998. 

Replaced by the 

9-5 in MY 1999. The 9-5 is not 

subject to the parts-marking 

requirements.

SUBARU

B9 Tribeca (MPV) FULL 2006

Baja (MPV) (M & R) 2003–2006

XT (M & R) 1987–1991 Not produced after MY 1991. 

Replaced by the SVX in MY 

1992.

SVX (M & R) 1992–1997 Replaced the XT in MY 1992. 

SVX was not produced after 

MY 1997. 

Forester (M & R) 1998–2006
34 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 35

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

SUBARU (continued)

Legacy (M & R) 2005–2006

Legacy Outback (M & R) 1995–2004 Platform change beginning 

with MY 2005. The MY 2005 

Subaru Outback (MPV) is not 

subject to the parts-marking 

requirements.

SUZUKI

X-90 (MPV) (M & R) 1997–1998 Not produced after MY 1998.

Aerio (M & R) 2002–2006

Sidekick (M & R) 1997–1998 Renamed Suzuki Vitara in 

MY 1999 (includes Vitara and 

Grand Vitara models).

Vitara/Grand Vitara/

XL-7 (MPV) 

(M & R) 1999–2006 Replaced the Sidekick in MY 

1999. The XL7 model was 

added to the Grand Vitara line 

in MY 2001.

TOYOTA 17

Scion xA (M & R) 2004–2006

Scion xB (M & R) 2004–2006

Toyota 4-Runner 

(MPV)

(M & R) 1997–2006

Toyota Avalon (M & R) 1995–2006

Toyota Camry/

Solara

(M & R) 1987–2006 Solara produced after MY 

1999.

Toyota Celica (M & R) 1987–2005 Not produced after MY 2005.

Toyota Corolla/

Corolla Sport

(M & R) 1987–2006 Corolla Sport not produced 

after MY 1990.

Toyota Cressida FULL 1987–1992 Not produced after MY 1992.

Toyota Echo (M & R) 2000–2006 Replaced the Toyota Tercel in 

MY 2000.

Toyota Highlander 

(MPV)

(M & R) 2001–2006

Toyota Matrix (M & R) 2003–2006

Toyota MR2 (M & R) 1987–1995 Not produced after MY 1995.

Toyota MR2 Spyder (M & R) 2001–2005 Not produced after MY 2005.

Toyota Prius (M & R) 2001–2006

17 Toyota has voluntarily parts-marked 100% of its vehicle lines since MY 1996.
36 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 37

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

TOYOTA 17 (continued)

Toyota RAV4 (MPV) (M & R) 1997–2006

Toyota Sienna 

(MPV)

(M & R) 1998–2006

Toyota Supra FULL 1987–1998 Not produced after MY 1998.

Toyota Tercel (M & R) 1997–1999 Not produced after MY 1999.

Lexus ES FULL 1990–2006

Lexus GS FULL 1993–2006

Lexus IS (M & R) 2001–2006

Lexus LS FULL 1990–2006

Lexus RX (MPV) (M & R) 1999–2006

Lexus SC FULL

FULL

1992-2000;

2002-2006

Not Produced in MY 2001.

VOLKSWAGEN

Audi 5000S (M & R) 1987–1988 The 5000S received a full 

exemption beginning MY 

1987; however, the exemption 

was not used. The 5000S was 

required to be parts-marked. 

Not produced after MY 1988.

Audi 100 FULL 1989–1994 Renamed Audi A6 in MY 

1995.

Audi 200 FULL 1989–1991 Renamed Audi S4 in MY 

1992.

Audi A6/S6/RS618 FULL 1995–2006 Replaced the Audi 100 in MY 

1995.

Audi S419 FULL 1992–1994 Replaced by the Audi S6 in 

MY 1995. Replaced the Audi 

200 in MY 1992. Not produced 

after MY 1994.

Audi S6 FULL 1995–1998 Replaced the Audi S4 in MY 

1995. Not produced after MY 

1998.

Audi Allroad (MPV) FULL 2001–2006

17 Toyota has voluntarily parts-marked 100% of its vehicle lines since MY 1996. 

18 Audi produced both an S6 vehicle line, and a model carrying the same name plate. The S6 model was added to the A6 vehicle line in MY 2002 and 

the RS6 model was added in MY 2003. 19 For clarifi cation purposes, Audi produced an S4 vehicle line, and a model carrying the same nameplate. The S4 model was added to the A4 vehicle line 

in MY 2000. The A4 line (produced MYs 2000-2004) is not subject to the parts-marking requirements. However, the S4 line (produced MYs 

1992-1994) is subject to the parts-marking requirements.
38 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 39

MAKE/MODEL

REQUIRED 

PARTS-MARKING 

(MAJOR = M) 

(REPLACEMENT = R)

 PRODUCTION 

YEAR(S) 

REQUIRING 

PARTS-MARKING

EXEMPTION 

TYPE 

(FULL/PARTIAL) 

PRODUCTION 

YEARS EXEMPTED 

FROM 

PARTS-MARKING

REFERENCE 

INFORMATION 

(MY=MODEL YEAR)

VOLKSWAGEN (continued)

Audi Cabriolet FULL 1994–1998 Not produced after MY 1998.

Volkswagen Cabrio FULL 1995–2002 Replaced the VW Cabriolet in 

MY 1995. Not produced after 

MY 2002.

Volkswagen 

Cabriolet

(M & R) 1987–1993 Exemption applied beginning with reintroduction of the line as the Volkswagen 

Cabrio in MY 1995.

The “original” VW Cabriolet 

was not produced after MY 

1993. Reintroduced as the 

VW Cabrio in MY 1995.

Volkswagen 

Corrado

(M & R) 1989–1994 FULL 1995 Not produced after MY 

1995.

Volkswagen Golf/

GTI/R32

FULL 1996–2006

Volkswagen Passat FULL 1997–2006

Volkswagen 

Scirocco

(M & R) 1987–1988 Not produced after MY 

1988.

Volkswagen 

Jetta/Jetta III

FULL 1994–2006
40 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Background

In 1984, the Motor Vehicle Theft Law Enforcement Act 

was created. It added Title VI to the Motor Vehicle and 

Information Cost Savings Act (recodified as Chapter 

331 of Title 49, United States Code). As a means to 

prevent the theft of motor vehicles for their parts, the 

1984 Theft Act required passenger cars and the major 

replacement parts for those cars to have vehicle 

identification numbers. This act required the Secretary 

of Transportation to complete a number of rulemaking 

actions targeted to reduce and deter motor vehicle 

theft. These rulemaking actions established standards 

for selecting high-theft cars and for identifying which 

parts of these high-theft cars should be marked with 

the vehicle identification number. Future rulemakings 

required compilation of theft rates for passenger cars, 

and for insurance companies to provide the Federal 

Government with data on their theft and recovery 

experience. 

On October 24, 1985, NHTSA published the Federal 

Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard, 49 CFR 

Part 541. The purpose of this standard is to reduce 

motor vehicle theft by assisting law enforcement 

authorities trace and recover the parts from stolen 

vehicles. The standard requires manufacturers to 

inscribe or attach the vehicle identification number 

(VIN) onto major parts of vehicles identified by the 

agency as likely high-theft car lines. This standard 

became effective beginning with the 1987 model 

year and required that selected high-theft car lines 

have 12 (two door models) or 14 (four door models) 

of its major component parts-marked with the V.I.N. 

Each vehicle in a high-theft line must have its major 

parts and major replacement parts-marked unless the 

vehicle line is granted an exemption from the partsmarking requirements. The vehicle can be exempted 

if an antitheft device has been installed as standard 

equipment on the entire line.

As a result of an increase in motor vehicle thefts and 

associated crimes, the Anti Car Theft Act of 1992 

(the 1992 Theft Act), was created. The 1992 Theft 

Act identified carjackings and owning or operating a 

chop shop as Federal crimes carrying with them stiff 
2006 Parts-Marking Quick Reference Guide 41

criminal penalties. The 1992 Theft Act amended the 

Theft Prevention Standard by extending the Federal 

parts-marking requirements to include light-duty 

trucks and multipurpose passenger vehicles (with a 

gross vehicle weight rating of 6,000 pounds or less). 

On December 13, 1994, the final rule amending 

the Theft Prevention Standard was published. This 

December 1994 rulemaking extended the partsmarking requirements: (a) to include multipurpose 

passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks; (b) listed the 

major component parts and replacement parts to be 

marked for each of the classes of vehicles such as 

the engine, transmission, front/rear bumper, right/left 

front fender, hood, right/left front door, right/left rear 

door, sliding or cargo door(s), right/left quarter panel 

(passenger cars), right/left side assembly (MPVs), 

pickup box, and/or cargo box (light-duty trucks), rear 

doors, decklid or hatchback and tailgate; and (c) 

established a new median theft rate (3.5826) for all 

passenger motor vehicles. This amendment became 

effective beginning with MY 1997 vehicles.

On August 28, 1985, NHTSA published the 

Procedures for Selecting Lines to Be Covered by 

The Theft Prevention Standard, 49 CFR Part 542. 

This August 1985 regulation established procedures 

to determine which passenger motor vehicle lines 

(passenger cars only) are covered by the Theft 

Prevention Standard. These procedures require 

automobile manufacturers to provide the agency with 

information necessary to select whether a new vehicle 

introduced for sale into the United States is likely to 

be a high-theft line and subject to the parts-marking 

requirements. On April 26, 1994, this regulation was 

amended to apply to all passenger cars, multipurpose 

passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks (rated at 

6,000 pounds gross vehicle weight or less). 

On September 8, 1987, NHTSA published the 

regulation entitled Exemption from the Vehicle 

Theft Prevention Standard, 49 CFR Part 543. This 

regulation encourages the installation of antitheft 

devices as standard equipment in factory delivered 

motor vehicles. This rule allows for exemption 
42 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

from the parts-marking requirements of the Theft 

Prevention Standard. A manufacturer may petition for 

exemption of a high-theft vehicle line when it plans 

to install a standard equipment antitheft device on 

the entire line. The agency must determine that the 

antitheft device to be installed on the line is likely 

to be as effective in reducing and deterring motor 

vehicle theft as parts-marking. On March 8, 1994, this 

regulation was amended to limit the number of hightheft lines that could be exempted per model year. 

On April 6, 2004, NHTSA published a Final Rule 

extending the anti-theft parts-marking requirements of 

the Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard, 

CFR Part 541. This regulation expands NHTSA’s 

current anti-theft parts-marking requirement to 

include: (1) all below median theft rate passenger cars 

and multipurpose passenger vehicles (with a gross 

vehicle weight rating of 6,000 pounds or less), and (2) 

below median theft rate light-duty trucks with major 

parts that are interchangeable with passenger motor 

vehicles subject to parts-marking. This Final Rule is 

effective September 1, 2006. 

On May 19, 2005, NHTSA published a Final Rule 

responding to petitions for reconsideration of the 

new rule extending the anti-theft parts-marking 

requirements. This Final Rule made the following 

changes and clarifications to the agency’s expanded 

parts-marking requirements: (1) manufacturers 

are no longer required to submit “likely theft rate 

determinations” for vehicle lines introduced prior 

to the September 1, 2006, effective date, if the 

manufacturers choose to voluntarily mark the new 

vehicle lines immediately after their introduction; (2) 

manufacturers are permitted to petition the agency 

to exempt low-theft vehicle lines equipped with 

antitheft devices from the parts-marking requirements 

beginning with model year 2006; (3) vehicle lines with 

annual production of not more than 3,500 vehicles are 

excluded from the parts-marking requirements; and 

(4) the agency adopted a phase-in of the new partsmarking requirements over a two-year period.

This guide is intended primarily for use by 

the law enforcement community. 

To obtain additional copies, write to:

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Office of International Vehicle,

Fuel Economy and Consumer Standards

Room 5320, NVS-131 

400 Seventh Street SW. 

Washington, DC 20590

Fax: 301-386-2194

or to order online, go to:

www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/enforce/

PartsMarkingWeb/pages/index.htm

*Special thanks to the National Insurance Crime Bureau for its 

assistance in the distribution of this guide.*

DOT HS 810 656

September 2006