Free BMW 325Ci VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW 325Ci VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW 325Ci VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code consisting of the first three characters of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), designated to identify the vehicle manufacturer. Specifically, for the BMW 325ci produced between 2000 and 2006, the WMI is WBA. This indicates that the vehicle was manufactured by BMW AG, located in Munich, Germany. The WMI not only reveals the manufacturer’s identity but also indicates that the vehicle is classified as a passenger car. This code is essential for vehicle registration, identification, and ensuring compliance with global standards.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW 325Ci

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 2000-2006
• Example VIN: WBABR3340YEA82163
• 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 325Ci 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 325Ci:

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 325Ci 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 325Ci VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW 325Ci VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW 325Ci Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW 325Ci

The final 6 characters in a BMW 325Ci’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW 325Ci VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, indicating that it could be a 2006 model, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Size: A VIN can specify the body class and size of the vehicle, such as a Coupe with 2 doors, offering insights into its design and size.
• Engine Specifications: Details like engine displacement (2.5L or 2500.0 CC), horsepower (184 hp), and the number of cylinders (6) are typically encoded in the VIN, giving a glimpse into the vehicle’s performance capabilities.
• Fuel Type: The VIN reveals the primary fuel type, possibly indicating that the vehicle runs on Gasoline, which is essential for understanding fuel efficiency and environmental impact.
• Safety Features: Information about safety features such as Front Air Bag Locations and additional restraint system details can be discerned from the VIN, providing insights into the vehicle’s safety equipment.
• Manufacturing Information: The VIN provides manufacturing details, including the plant city (Regensburg) and plant country (Germany), which can trace the vehicle’s origin.
• Series and Trim: Specific model details, including the 3-Series and trim level (SULEV), are discerned from the VIN, offering insights into the vehicle’s market positioning and features.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW 325Ci