How to decode a 1991 BMW 325ix VIN
Characters 1-3 of a 1991 BMW 325ix VIN
A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique three-letter code that precisely identifies the manufacturer of a specific vehicle. It is a component of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is used worldwide to standardize the classification and identification of motor vehicles. In the case of the 1991 BMW 325ix, the WMI is “WBA”, which designates BMW AG as the manufacturer. This vehicle was produced in Munich, Germany, and falls within the passenger car category, as indicated by its VIN. The WMI is essential for providing detailed information about the vehicle’s origin, type, and manufacturing location to authorities, service providers, and vehicle enthusiasts.
List of WMI Codes for a 1991 BMW 325ix
WMI: WBA
- Model Years Covered: 1988-1989, 1991
- Example VIN: WBAAB9312MED05368
- 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 1991 BMW 325ix 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 1991 BMW 325ix:
| Known VDS for a 1991 BMW 325ix | |
|---|---|
| AB931 | AE931 |
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 1991 BMW 325ix 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 1991 BMW 325ix VIN — Year Code
| Year Code | Year |
|---|---|
| M | 1991 |
11th Character in the 1991 BMW 325ix VIN — Plant Code(s)
Known 1991 BMW 325ix Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)
| Plant Code | Plant City | Plant State | Plant Country | Plant Company Name | Example VIN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E | Regensburg | Germany | WBAAB9312MED05368 |
VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1991 BMW 325ix
The final 6 characters in a 1991 BMW 325ix’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.
Want to unlock even more detailed info about your vehicle?
How to find a 1991 BMW 325ix’s VIN?
Locating the VIN number on your 1991 BMW 325ix is key for identification. Here’s how to find it:
- Look at the dashboard on the driver’s side of your BMW 325ix. The VIN can typically be seen from outside the vehicle, right where the dashboard meets the windshield.
- Examine the door jamb on the driver’s side. The VIN of your BMW 325ix might be found on a sticker or plate where the door latches when closed.
- Examine under the hood of your BMW 325ix. The VIN might also be stamped on the front of the engine block.
- Look at the rear wheel well. Peer through the rear wheel arch of your BMW 325ix and the VIN might be stamped above the tire.
- Check your vehicle’s registration documents or insurance papers, as the VIN for your BMW 325ix will be listed there.
What info can a 1991 BMW 325ix VIN reveal?
- Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, suggesting it was manufactured around 1991, potentially offering insights into the vehicle’s age and market value.
- Engine Specifications: The VIN provides details on the engine, including a capacity of 2.491 liters and 152 cubic inches, with a horsepower of 168, indicating potential performance capabilities of the vehicle.
- Vehicle Make and Model: The VIN specifies the vehicle as a BMW 325ix, which can be crucial for precise identification, necessary for parts replacement and service history.
- Fuel Type: The VIN indicates the primary fuel type for this vehicle as Gasoline, which offers insights into its potential efficiency and environmental impact.
- Safety Features: The presence of a Dr. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in the VIN suggests advanced safety measures for the time, potentially contributing to reducing injury in case of an accident.
- Manufacturing Information: The VIN confirms the vehicle’s production in Regensburg, Germany, potentially offering insights into the build quality and regulatory standards it met during construction.
- Body class and Doors: The VIN notes the body class as a Sedan/Saloon with 2 doors, providing a clear picture of the vehicle’s design and functionality.
Don’t have your 1991 BMW 325ix’s VIN handy? Try our license plate lookup instead!
Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1991 BMW 325ix
| Vehicle Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Body Class | Sedan/Saloon |
| Displacement (CC) | 2490.833728 |
| Displacement (CI) | 152 |
| Displacement (L) | 2.490833728 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Engine Brake (hp) From | 168 |
| Engine Manufacturer | BMW-AG |
| Engine Number of Cylinders | 6 |
| Fuel Type - Primary | Gasoline |
| Model | 325ix |
| Model Year | 1991 |
| Other Restraint System Info | Dr. Supplemental System (SRS) |
| Plant City | Regensburg |
| Plant Company Name | |
| Plant Country | Germany |
| Seat Belt Type | Manual |
| Series | 3 |
| Series2 | E30/16 |
| Vehicle Descriptor | WBAAE931*ME |
| Vehicle Type | Passenger Car |
| Sample_VIN | WBAAE9312MED64542 |
Ready, Set, Bumper...
Try Bumper today and learn more about a vehicle you plan to buy or already own.
TRY Bumper Today