Free BMW 850i VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW 850i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW 850i VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code consisting of the first three characters in a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), signifying the vehicle manufacturer, and, in some cases, its country of production and vehicle type. For the BMW 850i, the WMI is WBA, indicating that BMW AG in Munich, Germany, is the manufacturer. This particular WMI covers several model years, notably 1991-1992, 2019, and 2023, revealing its use across different generations of the BMW 850i. These characters not only identify the vehicle’s maker but also provide information concerning the vehicle’s class, showing it to be a passenger car. Through such identification, the WMI plays a critical role in global vehicle recognition and registration processes.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW 850i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 1991-1992, 2019, 2023
• Example VIN: WBAEG2310MCB73751
• 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 850i 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 850i:

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 850i 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 850i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW 850i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW 850i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW 850i

The final 6 characters in a BMW 850i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW 850i VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, such as a 2023 M850i, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Engine Specifications: It can provide intricate details about the engine, including displacement in CC, CI, and L (4400.0 CC, 268.50447401682 CI, 4.4 L), horsepower (523 hp), and the number of cylinders (8), which are crucial for performance analysis and maintenance planning.
• Safety Features: The VIN may indicate the presence of safety features like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Automatic Crash Notification (ACN), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and airbag locations (Curtain Air Bag in 1st and 2nd Rows, Knee Air Bag in 1st Row for both Driver and Passenger), showcasing the vehicle’s commitment to occupant safety.
• Fuel Type: The primary fuel type, such as Gasoline, is highlighted, which aids in understanding the vehicle’s operational requirements and environmental impact.
• Body Class and Doors: Information on the body class (Coupe) and the number of doors (2) helps in visualizing the vehicle’s design and determining its suitability for certain lifestyles or preferences.
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): The VIN may identify whether advanced safety and convenience features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Parking Assist are available, informing potential upgrades and insurance implications.
• Manufacturing Details: It may reveal the manufacturing location, aiding in assessing build quality and import regulations.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW 850i