Free BMW 735i VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW 735i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW 735i VIN

WMI, or World Manufacturer Identifier, is a code embedded within a vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) that indicates the manufacturer of the vehicle. This unique code comprises the first three characters of the VIN and provides essential information about the vehicle, including the manufacturer’s identity and the vehicle’s country of origin. For instance, in the case of the BMW 735i from 1985 to 1991, the WMI WBA specifically identifies the vehicle as manufactured by BMW AG, located in Munich, Germany. This identifier is crucial for various purposes, such as registration, insurance, and in tracking the vehicle’s history. The WMI acts as a global standard, ensuring that every vehicle can be uniquely identified worldwide, highlighting its origin and manufacturer.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW 735i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 1985-1991
• Example VIN: WBAFH8403F0970409
• 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 735i 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 735i:

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 735i 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 735i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW 735i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW 735i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW 735i

The final 6 characters in a BMW 735i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW 735i VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, indicating that it could be from the year 1988, potentially providing insights into the age and design features of the vehicle.
• Manufacturing Details: The VIN can indicate the possible manufacturing location, which in this case may be Munich or Dingolfing, hinting at European build quality and manufacturing standards.
• Vehicle Specifications: The VIN decoding reveals the vehicle as a BMW 735i, known for its luxurious 7-Series lineup, with a 3.4L engine by BMW-AG, emphasizing performance and the manufacturer’s reputation for engineering excellence.
• Engine and Performance: The engine decoded from the VIN boasts 6 cylinders with a displacement of approximately 3.4 liters (3424.896376 CC or 209 CI) and an output of 182 horsepower, suggesting a balance between performance and efficiency for its time.
• Fuel Type: The primary fuel type for this vehicle is gasoline, a critical detail for potential owners in terms of fuel economy and environmental considerations.
• Safety Features: The presence of a Dr. Supplemental System (SRS), commonly known as a driver’s airbag, underscores the vehicle’s safety features, which could be crucial for buyers focusing on safety.
• Transmission and Drive: The VIN specifies an automatic transmission style, ensuring ease of driving and passenger comfort with a categorized body class as a Sedan/Saloon.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW 735i