Free BMW M3 VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW M3 VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW M3 VIN

World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) codes are unique three-letter codes assigned to every vehicle manufacturer by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). These codes form the initial portion of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and provide essential information such as the manufacturer’s name, vehicle type, and the country of manufacture. For instance, the BMW M3, a renowned passenger car produced by BMW M GmbH, has a WMI code starting with WBS, indicating it’s produced by BMW M GmbH in Munich, Germany. This code is crucial for identification purposes, helping in vehicle registration, titling, and ensuring compatibility with parts and services. The BMW M3 models associated with this WMI were manufactured in various years including 1988, the mid and late ’90s, early to mid-2000s, the early 2010s, and more recently, from 2015 to 2018 and 2021 to 2024, showcasing the car’s enduring popularity and production continuity.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW M3

WMI: WBS

• Model Years Covered: 1988, 1995-1999, 2002-2006, 2008-2013, 2015-2018, 2021-2024
• Example VIN: WBSAK0300J2196756
• Manufacturer Name: BMW M GmbH
• Vehicle Type: Passenger Car
• City: Munich
• State or Province:
• Country: Germany

Characters 4-8 are the Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) of a BMW M3 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 M3:

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 M3 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 M3 VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW M3 VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW M3 Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW M3

The final 6 characters in a BMW M3’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW M3 VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year as 2021, providing insights into the age and potential historical value of the vehicle.
• Body Class and Doors: The VIN specifies a 2021 M3 Comp with a body class of Sedan/Saloon, possibly indicating a 4-door vehicle and offering detailed insights into the vehicle’s design and structure.
• Drive Type: From the VIN, it is indicated that the vehicle has rear-wheel drive, which might help in understanding the vehicle’s handling characteristics and drive configuration.
• Engine Specifications: The VIN encodes specific engine details, including a 2.992-liter engine producing 503 horsepower, and a 6-cylinder configuration, providing insights into the vehicle’s high-performance capabilities.
• Safety Features: It is suggested that the vehicle may come with standard safety features such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), a backup camera, Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Curtain Airbags for the 1st and 2nd rows, and Lane Departure Warning (LDW), highlighting comprehensive passenger protection.
• Fuel Type and Transmission: The vehicle is indicated to run on Gasoline with an automatic transmission supporting 8 speeds, potentially demonstrating both fuel preference and an efficient gear system for smooth acceleration and driving dynamics.
• Advanced Tech and Comfort Features: Optional advanced technologies like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA), along with standard features such as Keyless Ignition and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), are mentioned, showcasing a luxury car with high tech for safety and comfort.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW M3