Free 2012 BMW 135i VIN Decoder

How to decode a 2012 BMW 135i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 2012 BMW 135i VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code that identifies the manufacturer of a vehicle, providing insights into where and by whom a vehicle was made. For the 2012 BMW 135i, the WMI code “WBA” signifies that the car was manufactured by BMW AG, highlighting its origins from Munich, Germany. This code is crucial for understanding the vehicle’s background, as it not only confirms the make and country of origin but also associates the vehicle with the quality and prestige typical of German engineering. The WMI is part of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which offers detailed information about the vehicle, including its model year, production sequence, and specific attributes. This structured identification system ensures that every vehicle can be uniquely traced back to its manufacturer, providing transparency and security in the automotive industry.

List of WMI Codes for a 2012 BMW 135i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 2008-2013
• Example VIN: WBAUC9C50CVM11682
• 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 2012 BMW 135i 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 2012 BMW 135i:

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 2012 BMW 135i 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 2012 BMW 135i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 2012 BMW 135i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 2012 BMW 135i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 2012 BMW 135i

The final 6 characters in a 2012 BMW 135i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 2012 BMW 135i VIN reveal?

• Model Year and Manufacturing Details: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, with the 2012 model providing insights into the age and market value of the vehicle. Additionally, the manufacturing location in Rosslyn, South Africa, indicates its global manufacturing footprint.
• Vehicle Specifications: The vehicle is identified as a Coupe from the 1-Series, specifically the 135i model, equipped with a 3.0L engine. The engine’s displacement of 181.8 cubic inches provides insights into its performance and power capabilities.
• Engine and Performance: With 300 horsepower and six cylinders, the car is crafted for enthusiasts demanding strong performance, and it primarily uses gasoline as the fuel type, potentially offering a balance between power and fuel efficiency.
• Safety Features: The vehicle is equipped with front and side airbags for enhanced safety, along with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) for real-time tire pressure data, potentially contributing to occupant safety.
• Seating Capacity and Restraint Systems: Designed as a two-door coupe, the vehicle ensures passenger safety with manual seat belts complemented by pretensioners and an advanced restraint system, including head inflatable restraints for occupants in multiple positions.
• Weight Classification: The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of Class 1, which is 6,000 lb or less, indicates that it’s a light, agile, yet capable passenger car.
• Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Consideration: Utilizing gasoline as its primary fuel type, the vehicle combines performance with consideration for fuel efficiency, potentially aligning with the needs of modern drivers looking for a blend of power and economy.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 2012 BMW 135i

Source