Regular Production Option
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A Regular Production Option (RPO) is a 3-digit standardized code used by General Motors to designate vehicle options and modifications. RPO codes designate how a vehicle is built. They have been used on dealership order forms and in assembly plants since at least the 1950s (e.g., for the Corvette C1). It was originally all numeric and labeled Sales Codes; in 1970 GM switched to the alphanumeric RPO code.
Even base vehicles with few optional features have multiple RPOs, since both standard components (like engine, transmission, and paint color) and extra cost options are coded.
The complete configuration of a GM vehicle (as it exited the factory) can be described by specifying the base model and its RPO codes.[1] Some dealerships are willing to run a VIN and print out its RPOs (with their definitions). The records are in GMs' electronic database since at least 1990.[2]
Beginning as early as 1967,[3] and to all models since 1984, GM attached a Service Parts Identification (SPID) label. The label is most often located on the back of the glovebox door, on the inside of the trunk lid, or on the bottom of the spare tire cover. On some SUVs and mini-vans, the SPID label is located on one of the plastic storage covers in the rear of the vehicle.
The SPID lists, in alphanumeric order, many of the options built into a vehicle, both RPOs and the older and longer Option Model numbers[4][unreliable source?] sometimes used before 1970. These codes can be used to help select the correct replacement parts.
In 2018, the SPID was replaced by a QR code label located on the B-pillar (driver's side, between front and rear doors). While fairly complete, it does not include every RPO.
Details and format
[edit]RPOs may be generic options (available on all models over many years), or specific options (available only on specific models for limited years). RPOs codes are assigned to align with specific component groups and with UPC groups as tabulated below:
| UPC Group | Component Group | RPO Codes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Body | A01 - E99 |
| 2 | Chassis | F16-FY9 |
| 3 | Front Suspension | F40 - F99 |
| 4 | Rear Suspension | G01 - HY9 |
| 5 | Brakes | J00 – JY9 |
| 6 | Engine | K01 - L99 |
| 7 | Transmission | M01 - M99 |
| 8 | Exhaust & Emissions? | N01-N29, NA1-NN9 |
| 9 | Steering | N30 – NY9 |
| 10 | Wheels & Tires | P01- QY9 |
| 11 | Interior? | ? |
| 12 | Electrical & Instrument | T60 - U99 |
| 13 | Towing? | V01-VY99 |
| 14 | Bumpers & Misc. | V30 - V99 |
| Special Items | Z01 - Z99 |
Model names
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A few RPO codes have become notable enough that they have been used as model names. The Camaro Z28 name came from an option code which specified a performance-oriented configuration. This happened again with the Corvette Z06 models. Most RPO codes that are promoted to model names are appearance packages only, and are not related to speed or engine performance. Two examples are the Z28 and Z71. In the 1980s one could order a Z28 Camaro with a 2.5 liter engine, although this was rare. RPO Z71 was an off-road suspension for trucks that is not related to the drivetrain. It became notable enough to be promoted to a package name, even applied as a logo sticker onto the vehicle rear quarter body panel. Although it usually came with four-wheel drive, two-wheel drive was also available.
Notable RPO codes
[edit]- L78: big block V8 engine by Chevrolet
- 9C1 (Chevrolet Police package)
- Z71: Truck Sports Package
References
[edit]- ^ Whipps, Kevin (2018). How to Restore Your Chevy Truck 1973–1987. CarTech. p. 71. ISBN 978-1-61325-199-7. Retrieved 2025-05-14 – via Google Books.
- ^ "RPO Codes Decoder". decoderpo.com. Retrieved 2025-05-14.
- ^ "67-72 Chevy truck SPID Labels". outintheshop.com. Retrieved 2025-05-14.
- ^ "SPID Picture thread". 67-72chevytrucks.com. Retrieved 2025-05-14.