Decode Your Kei Truck: Chassis Codes, Model Numbers & How to Identify Exactly What You Own

Before ordering parts for a Kei truck, identify it properly.

The model year and badge are useful, but the chassis code is usually what gets you to the correct parts, manuals, and specifications.

A “1995 Honda Acty” may be enough for conversation. For parts, you want something more like:

Honda Acty HA4, E07A, 4WD, 5-speed. After reading this you should be able to describe your KEI accurately to a mechanic or fellow kei-fan.

Common Kei Truck Chassis Codes

Model	2WD	4WD
Honda Acty truck	HA3	HA4
Suzuki Carry	DC51T	DD51T
Daihatsu Hijet	S100P	S110P
Subaru Sambar truck	KS3	KS4
Mitsubishi Minicab	U41T	U42T

These are common examples, not complete model histories. Each manufacturer used other codes across different generations, body styles, engines, and equipment levels.

If your code does not appear here, do not assume the nearest-looking one is correct.

Where to Find the Chassis Code

Look for the vehicle identification plate and chassis stamping. Depending on the model, these may be:

• inside the cab

• under a seat

• near an engine access panel

• on the firewall or surrounding body structure

• stamped directly into the chassis

Photograph both the identification plate and the stamped chassis number.

Older Japanese-market vehicles often use shorter chassis numbers rather than the 17-digit VIN format common in the U.S. A number such as HA4-1234567 or DD51T-345678 is normal.

Identify the Engine Too

The chassis code gets you into the right model family. The engine code narrows things further.

Common examples include:

Manufacturer	Common engine family
Honda	E07A
Suzuki	F6A
Daihatsu	EF-series
Subaru	EN07
Mitsubishi	3G83

Depending on year and model, there may be variations within these families, so use the engine marking or identification plate rather than relying only on the year.

Record the Drivetrain and Transmission

For parts and service work, also record:

• 2WD or 4WD

• manual or automatic

• number of gears

• high/low range, if equipped

• differential lock, if equipped

• axle-lock or 4WD engagement system, if equipped

This matters more than it might appear. Kei manufacturers used several different 4WD systems within the same general model families.

Make a Vehicle ID Record

Keep this with the truck:

Make:Model:Year:Chassis code:Full chassis number:Engine code:Transmission:Drivetrain:Paint code:Factory tire size:

Also save photos of the ID plate, chassis stamping, engine marking, and any unfamiliar drivetrain controls. I like to then feed my vehicle ID and my service manual into the AI LLM of my choice so it can provide me accurate references to my specific truck. Do this once and future parts ordering will be much easier.

Search by Chassis Code, Not Just Model Name

Instead of: Honda Acty alternator

search: Honda Acty HA4 alternator

Better: Honda Acty HA4 E07A alternator

Best, when available: OEM part number

Part-number searches are usually more reliable than broad fitment claims.

A listing that says “fits Honda Acty 1990–1999” should be treated as a starting point, not proof.

Before ordering, compare:

1. chassis code

2. engine code

3. OEM part number

4. dimensions or connector type where applicable

5. 2WD versus 4WD fitment

If those line up, you are probably buying the right part.

If they do not, the seller's compatibility box does not get the deciding vote.

Five-Minute New-Owner Check

When you buy a Kei truck:

1. Photograph the identification plate.

2. Photograph the chassis stamping.

3. Record the chassis code.

4. Record the full chassis number.

5. Identify the engine code.

6. Confirm drivetrain and transmission.

7. Save the information with your maintenance records.

That little record will be useful every time you order parts, download a manual, ask for technical help, or sell the truck later.

Start with the chassis code. It is the closest thing the truck has to introducing itself properly.