Free BMW 325i VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW 325i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW 325i VIN

World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code used to identify the manufacturer of a vehicle, forming the first three characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). For the BMW 325i, the WMI is WBA, indicating that BMW AG, located in Munich, Germany, is the manufacturer. This code specifies that the vehicle is a passenger car, with production years encompassing both 1987-1995 and 2001-2006 batches. Through the VIN, including the WMI, one can extract vital information about the car, such as its manufacturing location and vehicle type. This specific identification system is essential for tracking, registration, and recall purposes for vehicles worldwide.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW 325i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 1987-1995, 2001-2006
• Example VIN: WBAAD2301H2445683
• Manufacturer Name: BMW AG
• Vehicle Type: Passenger Car
• City: Munich
• State or Province:
• Country: Germany

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a BMW 325i VIN

These characters correspond to components like:

• Engine type
• Transmission
• Model or trim
• Body style
• Gross vehicle weight range

Below find the known vehicle descriptor codes for a BMW 325i:

Auto manufacturers have some discretion to decide how they want to code this section, but its contents and decoded results are generally consistent.

Character 9 is the “check digit” in a BMW 325i VIN.

Based on a formula developed by the US Department of Transportation, it helps reduce fraud by ensuring the validity of the VIN.

10th Character in the BMW 325i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW 325i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW 325i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW 325i

The final 6 characters in a BMW 325i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW 325i VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicles model year being the year 2006, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Plant Country: It was indicated that the vehicle was manufactured in South Africa, possibly providing insight into its origin.
• Vehicle Specifications: The vehicle, a 325i model from the 3-Series, is detailed with a 3-liter engine displacement and a horsepower rating starting from 215, possibly showcasing its performance capabilities.
• Body Class and Size: The VIN denotes the vehicle as a Sedan/Saloon with 4 doors, outlining its body style and size which can be crucial for buyer preferences.
• Safety Features: Notably, the car is equipped with front airbags for both the driver and passenger in the 1st row, and includes a dual-stage supplementary restraint system, potentially highlighting its safety measures.
• Fuel Type - Primary: The information specifies gasoline as the primary fuel type, which is vital for understanding the vehicle’s fuel requirements and efficiency.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Type: The vehicle utilizes a direct TPMS, which could enhance safety by providing real-time tire pressure monitoring, maintaining optimal driving conditions.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW 325i