Free BMW 428i VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW 428i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW 428i VIN

The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code consisting of the first three characters of a vehicle identification number (VIN), which identifies the manufacturer of the vehicle. In the context of BMW, particularly the 428i model produced between 2014 and 2016, the WMI is WBA. This prefix indicates that the vehicle was manufactured by BMW AG, one of the leading luxury automobile manufacturers based in Munich, Germany. The WBA WMI is specific to BMW passenger cars, signifying both the brand’s heritage and its country of origin. Through this system, automotive regulatory bodies and consumers can accurately trace the origin and manufacturer of vehicles, ensuring accountability and quality management.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW 428i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 2014-2016
• Example VIN: WBA3N5C50EK196016
• 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 428i 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 428i:

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 428i 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 428i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW 428i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW 428i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW 428i

The final 6 characters in a BMW 428i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW 428i VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicles model year being the year 2014, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Doors: A VIN can specify the body class. For a 2014 Coupe, it may indicate a vehicle with 2 doors, offering detailed insights into the vehicle’s design and functionality.
• Engine Type and Performance: The VIN can provide detailed engine information, such as a 2.00L engine with 4 cylinders that delivers 240 horsepower, hinting at the vehicle’s performance capabilities.
• Safety Features: The VIN can highlight comprehensive safety features, including front, side, curtain, and knee airbags across the 1st and sometimes 2nd rows, alongside the presence of pretensioners for the driver and front passenger.
• Fuel Type: It is possible to determine the primary fuel type the vehicle uses, such as Gasoline, offering insights into its fuel efficiency and environmental impact.
• Manufacturing Details: A glimpse into where the vehicle was manufactured, for instance, Munich, Germany, which could be indicative of the vehicle’s build quality and engineering standards.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS): The inclusion of a Direct TPMS type is crucial for maintaining optimal tire pressure, highlighting the vehicle’s emphasis on safety and performance.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW 428i