GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

5- DIGIT VEHICLE DAMAGE CODE GUIDE

In order to assist dealers in the inspection of new vehicles, enclosed are two copies of a laminated 5-Digit Vehicle Damage Code Guide. These guides are to be used by dealership personnel directly responsible for inspection of new vehicle.

This laminated 5-digit Vehicle Damage Code Guide has been revised to include updated inforamtion from the new "Carrier Delivery Receipt" form, which all carriers of GM vehicles began using on May 1, 1986. Several area descriptions, damage type and severity codes have been changed or deleted. (e.g., Severity Code "O" is not longer to be used).

Please pay particular attention to the Damage Type Codes (third and fourth digits of the damage code) because they determine the operation number and time plus any "other hours" that will be allowed for payment. Thorough understanding of the procedures outlined in the New Vehicle Receiving and Inspection Procedures Manual (issued April, 1986) along with use of this guide will ensure that all transportation damage or loss will be properly documented.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.