What is a GM build sheet?

A build sheet is General Motors' own factory assembly record for a specific VIN. It lists the RPO (Regular Production Option) codes the vehicle was built with — every package, individual option, paint and trim selection, axle ratio, and equipment group — exactly as it left the plant.

Where a window sticker is written for the buyer with plain descriptions and pricing, the build sheet is the underlying code-level truth. It's the most reliable way to confirm how a used Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, or GMC was originally configured, long after the original paperwork is gone.

Window sticker vs. build sheet

Newer GM vehicles (roughly 2020 and later) usually have the original window sticker PDF on file — the Monroney label with standard and optional equipment, fuel economy, warranty, and the full MSRP breakdown.

When a window sticker isn't on file, this tool automatically falls back to the build sheet: the list of RPO codes with their descriptions. Either way you come away with the factory record of how the vehicle was equipped.

RPO codes explained

Every factory option on a GM vehicle has a three-character RPO code — for example a specific paint, a tow package, a sunroof, or an audio system. These codes are also printed on the label inside the glovebox or spare-tire well.

The build sheet pairs each code with a readable description, so you can translate a glovebox full of codes into the actual packages and features the vehicle carries. That makes it easy to verify a seller's claims or settle exactly which options are factory.

Dealer says 3FU means something different

Exterior & Appearance · 2018 Cadillac XT5 · 767 views · 2 replies

3FU — Primary exterior color: Ural Mountain, Mica (Opel) (02). This code identifies the vehicle's factory-applied main exterior paint color. Browse RPO codes →

Patrick J. Feb 18, 2026 · Georgia

I asked the parts department about 3FU on my 2018 Cadillac XT5, but they could not give a clear answer. The decoder lists “Primary exterior color: Ural Mountain, Mica (Opel) (02). This code identifies the vehicle's factory-applied main exterior paint color” What vehicle details are needed to resolve the meaning correctly?

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2 replies

Megan C. Feb 19, 2026

On these vehicles, similar descriptions can use different codes because of supplier changes or package combinations. The code itself is useful, but the VIN-specific parts catalog is better before ordering anything.

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Mark A. Feb 24, 2026

The dealer should be able to pull a VIN-specific equipment or parts record. Ask them to search by VIN rather than entering only the three-character code.

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#3fu