Who is correct about determining the exact model year of a vehicle using the VIN or the door jamb sticker?

To determine the exact model year of a vehicle using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) or the door jamb sticker, it is important to understand how these identifiers function. The VIN contains information encoded in a specific format, where characters represent various details about the vehicle, including the make, model, and year of manufacture. However, the model year may not always align precisely with the calendar year or the actual manufacturing date, as some vehicles are released for sale before the new model year officially begins.

The door jamb sticker, which is typically placed on the driver's side, provides important information about the vehicle, including the build date, but it may also present the model year. Like the VIN, the door jamb sticker can give clues to the vehicle’s model year. Nevertheless, manufacturer-specific practices and variances in labeling can lead to discrepancies or confusion if relying solely on these sources without understanding the complete context.

Given this understanding, if the question implied that either technician could definitively ascertain the model year solely from these sources without considering additional context or possible irregularities, then that would indicate a misunderstanding of how to interpret those identifiers accurately. Thus, stating that neither technician is correct is appropriate given the potential for uncertainty when relying solely on the VIN or the door jamb sticker