Free 2008 BMW 528xi VIN Decoder

How to decode a 2008 BMW 528xi VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 2008 BMW 528xi VIN

WMIs or World Manufacturer Identifiers are unique codes used to identify the manufacturer of a vehicle globally. These codes form the first three characters of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), offering insight into the vehicle’s manufacturer and the region where it was produced. For example, a BMW 528xi from the year 2008 would have a WMI that indicates it was manufactured by BMW AG in Munich, Germany. This particular WMI points out that the vehicle is a passenger car, providing a quick reference for identifying the type of vehicle it is. Through the WMI, the global automotive industry maintains a standardized method of vehicle identification, facilitating vehicle tracking and regulation.

List of WMI Codes for a 2008 BMW 528xi

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 2008, 2012-2013
• Example VIN: WBANV13508BZ47475
• 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 2008 BMW 528xi 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 2008 BMW 528xi:

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 2008 BMW 528xi 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 2008 BMW 528xi VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 2008 BMW 528xi VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 2008 BMW 528xi Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 2008 BMW 528xi

The final 6 characters in a 2008 BMW 528xi’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 2008 BMW 528xi VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicles model year being the year 2008, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Vehicle Specifications: This can provide details about the make and model of the vehicle, such as a 528xi model from the 5-Series with a 3.0-liter engine.
• Engine Type and Fuel Efficiency: The VIN may decode information about the engine, including the number of cylinders, horsepower, and fuel type like gasoline, providing insights into the vehicle’s performance and fuel efficiency.
• Safety Features: It can indicate the presence of safety features, including front airbags for both the driver and passenger, and a dual-stage supplemental restraint system, which can contribute to potential occupant protection.
• Manufacturing Information: The VIN could provide manufacturing details, such as the plant city and country, like Dingolfing, Germany, offering insights into the vehicle’s production origin.
• Body Class and Doors: A VIN can specify the body class, such as a Sedan/Saloon with four doors, providing detailed insights into the vehicle’s design and structure.
• Additional Equipment: It may detail important vehicle systems like a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), showcasing modern vehicle technologies and safety enhancements.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 2008 BMW 528xi

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