Manufacturing date of vehicle

[Artsy]

Hi All,

Is there a reliable way to determine manufacturing dates of vehicles using the numberplate? I know it's possible to get Reg date but I'm looking for date of manufacture specifically.

To give more context, I'm looking to buy a car and would like to check manufacturing dates in relation to E5/E10 petrol.

Thanks in advance.

[Artsy]

I've checked online but most websites suggest VIN numbers which I don't have access to as I'm browsing potential vehicles online.

[Artsy]

I'm considering a Lexus IS250 circa 2007-2009.

The info I have is that cars manufactured up to Sept 2007 require E5 fuel whereas after this they can also take E10 so I'm trying to find out prior to viewing and buying if I can determine manufacturing dates.

[Artsy]

I think once I narrow down a couple of cars for viewing I'll post on the Lexus website.

I think rule of thumb suggests I go for an 08 plate at least.

Saying that, it means missing out on a lot of cheaper cars so maybe I just accept I'll have to use E5 permanently.


I don't do a lot of mileage so it's not too detrimental and there seems to be a universal hate for E10 anyway!