Free 1999 BMW M3 VIN Decoder

How to decode a 1999 BMW M3 VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 1999 BMW M3 VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code that is designated to every vehicle manufacturer around the globe to identify the make and country of origin. For the 1999 BMW M3, the WMI code is “WBS,” which signifies that this vehicle was produced by BMW M GmbH, a subsidiary of BMW focused on high-performance models. The specific vehicle type identified by this WMI is a passenger car, and it points out that the manufacturing facility is located in Munich, Germany. The WMI is part of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which provides detailed information about the vehicle, including its model year and specific production details. The presence of this code ensures that each vehicle can be uniquely identified worldwide, reflecting its manufacturer, vehicle type, and the location it was produced.

List of WMI Codes for a 1999 BMW M3

WMI: WBS

• Model Years Covered: 1988, 1995-1999, 2002-2006, 2008-2013, 2015-2018, 2021-2024
• Example VIN: WBSBK9330XEC42809
• 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 1999 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 1999 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 1999 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 1999 BMW M3 VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 1999 BMW M3 VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 1999 BMW M3 Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 1999 BMW M3

The final 6 characters in a 1999 BMW M3’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 1999 BMW M3 VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicles model year being the year 1999, providing insights into the age and potential market value of the vehicle.
• Engine Details: Detailed engine specifications such as the engine manufacturer being BMW M GmbH, displacement in liters (3.152L), and horsepower (240 hp) can be uncovered through VIN decoding.
• Fuel Efficiency and Type: The type of fuel a vehicle uses, such as Gasoline, is identifiable, offering insights into fuel efficiency and environmental impact. It’s possible that this information may provide an indication of the vehicle’s environmental impact and running costs.
• Safety Features: VIN information may include safety features, highlighting that the vehicle comes equipped with front airbags for both the driver and passenger, and indicating other restraint systems like manual seat belts. This information may suggest the level of safety and protection offered by the vehicle.
• Body Class and Size: The VIN reveals the body class of the vehicle, specifying that it is a Convertible/Cabriolet with 2 doors, which can help in understanding the vehicle’s design and functionality. This could give some insight into the vehicle’s design and practicality.
• Manufacturing Details: Details about the manufacturing, including the plant city (Regensburg) and country (Germany), provide a glimpse into the origin and manufacturing standards of the vehicle. It seems that this information might give an idea of the vehicle’s origin and potential quality standards.
• Series and Model Information: The specific series (3 Series) and model (M3) are encoded within the VIN, aiding in the identification of the vehicle’s market segment and performance characteristics. This may contribute to understanding the vehicle’s market positioning and performance.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 1999 BMW M3