Free Smart VIN Decoder

How to decode a Smart VIN

Characters 1-3 of a Smart VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code consisting of the first three characters in a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), designating the vehicle’s manufacturer, country of origin, and vehicle type. Each manufacturer is assigned a specific WMI by a designated global authority, enabling the identification of a vehicle’s make and manufacturing location merely by the WMI. For example, a WMI of WME signifies vehicles produced by Mercedes-Benz Cars in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, typically encompassing passenger cars. Manufacturers use these identifiers within a comprehensive VIN to detail not just the manufacturing origins but also the vehicle’s unique attributes, model year, and serial number, ensuring every vehicle can be globally recognized and differentiated.

List of WMI Codes for a Smart

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a Smart 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 Smart:

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 Smart 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 Smart VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the Smart VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known Smart Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a Smart

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

What info can a Smart VIN reveal?

• Model and Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicles model year being the year 2017, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle. The model identified is Fortwo, indicating the specific style and release year of the vehicle.
• Engine Details: Detailed engine specifications are encoded within the VIN, including a 0.9L in-line 3-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection and Turbo technology from Renault. This may provide insights into the vehicle’s performance capabilities.
• Safety Features: Standard safety features such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and airbags located in the 1st row for both driver and passenger are indicated, suggesting a focus on passenger safety.
• Body and Design: The VIN specifies the vehicle’s designation as a Coupe with 2 doors and rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration. Additionally, it reflects the compact design featuring a total of 2 seat rows and accommodation for 2 passengers, emphasizing its city-friendly, compact nature.
• Transmission and Performance: Information such as a 5-speed manual/standard transmission and features like traction control may be included in the VIN, offering insights into the vehicle’s drivability and handling characteristics.
• Manufacturing Information: Details about the manufacturing, including the plant city being Hambach, France, contribute to shedding light on the origin and production quality of the vehicle.
• Fuel Type and Efficiency: The primary fuel type indicated by the VIN is Gasoline, possibly coupled with the engine’s turbocharged efficiency, underscoring the vehicle’s potential fuel economy and environmental footprint.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a Smart