BMW VIN Decoder

Check your future car with our BMW VIN decoder and get access to its history.

vin number

Understanding BMW VIN

The VIN of a BMW consists of 17 characters, each uniquely assigned globally. This VIN provides detailed information about the vehicle, including the manufacturer, year, place of production, engine data, and more. Introduced by the ISO Institute, the VIN system requires all manufacturers to use this standardized identification method. This allows drivers to verify their BMWs, search for compatible parts, and request vehicle history reports. If you’re considering purchasing a used BMW from the USA or as an EU import, you can use CHECKCARZ to check the vehicle in advance. Our CHECKCARZ Report will reveal any potential issues, such as speedometer tampering, hidden damages, or total loss records, helping you make a well-informed decision.

What does a BMW VIN number consist of?​

The BMW VIN number is composed of various digits and letters that provide detailed information about the vehicle. Here’s how different parts of the VIN indicate specific details:

The first three letters of the VIN indicate the manufacturer and origin:

  1. WBA: The car was produced in Germany.​
  2. WBS: Represents BMW Motorsport GmbH, including the M-model series and M-engines.​
  3. WBY: Found in all BMW i-series models.​

BMWs from the USA will have VINs starting with:

  1. 4US or 5UX: Indicates the BMW U.S. Market.
  2. 5UM: Represents the U.S. Motorsport GmbH, corresponding to M GmbH models

VINs for BMWs from other regions start with:

  1. 3AV: Mexico
  2. X4X: Russia
  3. MMF: Thailand
  4. WBX: Austria, specifically from Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik in Graz

What information can I get from the VIN?

From the VIN, you can obtain the following detailed information:

Digits 1 – 3: World Manufacturer Index (WMI)

  • Manufacturer: Identifies the company that made the vehicle.
  • Country of Manufacture: Indicates where the vehicle was produced.
  • Vehicle Type: Specifies the category or type of vehicle.

Digits 4 – 8: Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)

  • Make*: The brand of the vehicle.
  • Engine Type: Information about the engine used.
  • Body Type: The design or style of the vehicle’s body.
  • Transmission Type: Details about the transmission system.
  • Additional Specifications: Other technical details related to the vehicle.

Digit 9: Check Digit

A security feature used to verify the accuracy of the VIN, particularly for vehicles sold in the U.S. and Canada.

Digits 10 – 17: Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS)

Unique Serial Number: The last eight digits represent a specific serial number, allowing each BMW vehicle to be uniquely identified.

To avoid confusion, VINs exclude the letters I/i, O/o, and Q/q, which can be easily mistaken for the numbers 1 and 0.

Where can I find the VIN of my BMW?​

You can find the VIN of your BMW in several common locations:

  • On the inner frame of the front door on the driver's side.
  • Near the bottom edge of the windshield on the driver's side.
  • The VIN may be stamped on the engine block or other areas under the hood.
  • If you're unable to locate the VIN on the vehicle itself or if the numbers are unclear, you can find it in the vehicle's registration documents, such as the title, registration card, or insurance paperwork.

BMW VIN decoder and the vehicle history report

If you’re planning to buy a used BMW, especially one from the USA or Europe, it’s important to check its history beforehand. This advice applies not only to BMWs but to all car models.

The vehicle history report should provide key information such as:

  • Mileage: Verify if it aligns with the vehicle’s condition.
  • Number of Previous Owners: Helps assess the car’s usage and care.
  • Reported Damages: Look for any documented issues, particularly with US imports that might have Salvage Titles.

While we strive to compile and present all available vehicle data in our reports, not every owner may report damages or repairs. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to thoroughly inspect the BMW yourself before finalizing the purchase.

CheckCarz is a global vehicle inspection service dedicated to providing comprehensive and reliable reports on used cars. Our expert team conducts thorough inspections, assessing every aspect of a vehicle’s condition, history, and market value. 

Quick Links

Contact Details

  • support@checkcarz.com
  • +1 825 579 0271

CheckCarz is a global vehicle inspection service dedicated to providing comprehensive and reliable reports on used cars. Our expert team conducts thorough inspections, assessing every aspect of a vehicle’s condition, history, and market value. 

Services

Quick Links

Contact Info

  • +1 825 579 0271
  • support@checkcarz.com
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