Free BMW 733i VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW 733i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW 733i VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code used to identify the manufacturer of a vehicle globally. It forms the first three characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), denoting the vehicle maker, the country of manufacture, and the type of vehicle. For example, BMW AG, a renowned manufacturer based in Munich, Germany, utilizes the WMI WBA for some of its passenger cars, like the 733i model produced during the years 1983 and 1984. This specific WMI is essential for distinguishing the vehicle’s origin, make, and model, providing valuable information for identification, registration, and insurance purposes. Through WMIs, each vehicle can be uniquely traced back to its manufacturer, reinforcing the global standardization of vehicle identification.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW 733i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 1983-1984
• Example VIN: WBAFF7406D7395985
• 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 733i 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 733i:

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 733i 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 733i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW 733i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW 733i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW 733i

The final 6 characters in a BMW 733i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW 733i VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year as 1983, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Doors: A VIN can specify the body class, as is the case for the 1983 BMW 733i, possibly indicating a Sedan/Saloon with 4 doors, offering detailed insights into the vehicle’s design and utility.
• Engine Details: The VIN highlights the engine specifics, suggesting a BMW-AG manufactured engine with a 6-cylinder configuration and a displacement of 3.210 liters (195.9 CI), possibly delivering performance insights and mechanical capabilities.
• Fuel Efficiency and Type: By specifying the primary fuel type as Gasoline, this information possibly sheds light on the vehicle’s environmental impact and operating needs, potentially implicating running costs and maintenance planning.
• Safety Features: The inclusion of Manual seat belt type may suggest the level of safety technology incorporated at the time of manufacture, offering a glimpse into compliance with safety standards and occupant protection measures.
• Production Detail: The mention of the plant city as Dingolfing possibly underlines the vehicle’s provenance, adding to its narrative and potentially affecting its collectibility and value to enthusiasts.
• Power Output: The illustration of the engine’s brake horsepower (hp) starting from 181hp possibly provides a measure of the vehicle’s performance capability, enabling a comparison with contemporary and modern standards.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW 733i