Free 2012 BMW 328i VIN Decoder

How to decode a 2012 BMW 328i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 2012 BMW 328i VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code designated to every vehicle manufacturer worldwide, forming the initial characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). For the 2012 BMW 328i, the WMI is “WBA”, which identifies vehicles made by BMW AG located in Munich, Germany. This prefix is crucial in recognizing the manufacturer and the vehicle’s origin. Focusing on model years spanning from 1996 to 2000 and again from 2007 to 2016, the WMI “WBA” signifies that the 328i is a passenger car designed and built by this renowned German automaker. This illustrates how WMIs serve as an integral part of automotive identification, offering insights into the vehicle’s manufacturing history and geographical origin.

List of WMI Codes for a 2012 BMW 328i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 1996-2000, 2007-2016
• Example VIN: WBAKF3C50CE445830
• 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 328i 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 328i:

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 328i 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 328i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 2012 BMW 328i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 2012 BMW 328i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 2012 BMW 328i

The final 6 characters in a 2012 BMW 328i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 2012 BMW 328i VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicles model year being the year 2012, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Doors: A VIN can specify the body class. In this case, the vehicle is categorized as a Sedan/Saloon with a 4-door design, offering detailed insights into the vehicle’s design and structure.
• Drive Type: The drive type can also be identified from the VIN. The 2012 model is a 4x2, which can help in understanding the vehicle’s handling characteristics and drive configuration.
• Engine Type and Power: The VIN provides specific details about the engine, such as a 2.00 L (2000 CC) 241 horsepower, offering insights into the vehicle’s performance capabilities.
• Fuel Type: The VIN indicates the vehicle uses gasoline as its primary source of fuel, providing valuable information for potential owners and mechanics.
• Manufacturing Details: The VIN reveals that the vehicle was manufactured in Rosslyn, South Africa, pinpointing the geographical origin of this particular model.
• Safety Features: Safety features like front, knee, and side airbags for the 1st row (driver and passenger) and a detailed restraint system are indicated in the VIN decode report, offering insights into the vehicle’s safety provisions.
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The VIN classifies the vehicle into Class 1, with a GVWR of 6,000 lb or less, underlining its classification and potential regulatory obligations.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): The VIN indicates that the vehicle comes equipped with a Direct TPMS, enhancing safety and maintenance capabilities.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 2012 BMW 328i

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