If you are looking for methods of dating your car, components delivered by OEM can be helpful. A typical example are the codes on the front screen.

Built-in of the front screen is normally between 3 and 6 months after production of the screen.

So at least you can date the YEAR of make.

Furthermore, you can find out if the screen was changed over the years (if you can date the year of make for example with the Vehicle Identification Number) - very helpful, if you are looking for hints of an accident.

More useful parts for dating are all types of moulded plastic parts, especially if the car is newer. Nearly every part has a stamp with the date of make.

The picture shows a typical screen code. You find the explanation of the date of make in the bottom part of the picture.

Click preview to open the full picture in a new browser.