Free BMW 550i VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW 550i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW 550i VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code consisting of the first three characters of a vehicle identification number (VIN), which identifies the vehicle’s manufacturer, vehicle type, and country of manufacture. In the case of the BMW 550i produced between 2006 and 2017, the WMI indicates that BMW AG in Munich, Germany, is the manufacturer. This WMI reveals that the vehicle is classified as a passenger car. By analyzing the WMI, one can gather essential details about the vehicle’s origin and category, shedding light on the vehicle’s global manufacturing location and the nature of its design and intended use. This information is crucial for understanding the vehicle’s specifications, compliance, and history.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW 550i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 2006-2017
• Example VIN: WBANB53506CP00450
• 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 550i 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 550i:

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 550i 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 550i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW 550i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW 550i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW 550i

The final 6 characters in a BMW 550i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW 550i VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN may uncover the vehicles model year, potentially indicating the year 2017, providing insights into the age and general characteristics of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Doors: The VIN can specify the body class, potentially revealing details such as a Sedan or Hatchback with 4 doors, offering insights into the vehicle’s design.
• Drive Type: The drive type can also be identified from the VIN, possibly offering details on the vehicle’s handling characteristics and drive configuration.
• Engine Type and Power: The VIN may provide insights into the engine specifications, potentially indicating a powerful 8-cylinder, 4.4L engine, capable of producing robust performance and power.
• Safety Features: Standard and optional safety features may be discerned from the VIN, such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW), potentially highlighting the vehicle’s focus on passenger safety.
• Fuel Type and Efficiency: The primary fuel type may be Gasoline, potentially offering clues to the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and environmental impact based on the engine details.
• Drive Type and Transmission: The VIN may provide information on the drive type, such as All-Wheel Drive (AWD), offering potential insights into its handling characteristics and drivability.
• Additional Features and Technology: Advanced technology features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and a Backup Camera may be listed as optional or standard, potentially illustrating the vehicle’s modern convenience and safety enhancements.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW 550i