Free BMW 540d VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW 540d VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW 540d VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code assigned to every vehicle manufacturer by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). This code, consisting of the first three characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), identifies the manufacturer, vehicle type, and country of origin. For the BMW 540d, the WMI WBA signifies that it’s manufactured by BMW AG, specializing in passenger cars, and is based in Munich, Germany. This coding system provides crucial information that helps in identifying vehicles globally. The BMW 540d’s designation underlines its creation by a prestigious manufacturer known for its engineering excellence in the automotive sector.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW 540d

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 2018
• Example VIN: WBAJD1C50JG474624
• 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 540d 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 540d:

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 540d 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 540d VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW 540d VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW 540d Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW 540d

The final 6 characters in a BMW 540d’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW 540d VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Body Type: The body type, such as Sedan/Saloon, can be determined from the VIN, shedding light on the vehicle’s design and structure.
• Engine Specifications: The VIN may disclose important engine details, such as a 3.0-liter engine with 261 horsepower and 6 cylinders, providing valuable insights into the vehicle’s performance.
• Safety Features: Safety features like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and front airbags can be indicated as standard or optional, offering insights into the vehicle’s safety standards.
• Fuel Type: The VIN can specify the primary fuel type the vehicle uses, such as Diesel, providing essential information for potential buyers.
• Transmission Details: Transmission characteristics, including an 8-speed automatic transmission, can be obtained from the VIN, aiding in understanding the vehicle’s driving dynamics.
• Manufacturing Location: Information about the vehicle’s production, including the plant city like Dingolfing, Germany, can be inferred from the VIN, offering insights into the vehicle’s manufacturing history.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW 540d