Free 2017 BMW M3 VIN Decoder

How to decode a 2017 BMW M3 VIN

Characters 1-3 of a 2017 BMW M3 VIN

A World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) forms the initial segment of a vehicle identification number (VIN), uniquely identifying the manufacturer of any given vehicle. For the 2017 BMW M3, the WMI “WBS” specifies that it was manufactured by BMW M GmbH, a subsidiary of BMW AG specializing in high-performance versions of standard BMW models. This particular prefix indicates that the vehicle was assembled in Munich, Germany, categorizing it as a passenger car. The WMI is an essential tool in vehicle tracking and identification, providing a universal shorthand for the vehicle’s manufacturing origin, the company that created it, and the type of vehicle it is. This framework allows for a consistent method of vehicle identification across the global automotive industry.

List of WMI Codes for a 2017 BMW M3

WMI: WBS

• Model Years Covered: 1988, 1995-1999, 2002-2006, 2008-2013, 2015-2018, 2021-2024
• Example VIN: WBS8M9C50H5G42120
• 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 2017 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 2017 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 2017 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 2017 BMW M3 VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the 2017 BMW M3 VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known 2017 BMW M3 Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a 2017 BMW M3

The final 6 characters in a 2017 BMW M3’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a 2017 BMW M3 VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN may indicate that the car is a 2017 model, possibly providing crucial information about its production year.
• Safety Features: Essential safety features such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and front airbags for both driver and passenger are standard, possibly indicating a focus on safety.
• Engine Specifications: With an engine displacement of approximately 3 liters and 6 cylinders, the vehicle may promise significant performance capabilities, generating up to 425 horsepower.
• Fuel Type: The vehicle possibly uses gasoline as its primary fuel, offering insights into potential fuel efficiency and performance characteristics.
• Body Class and Size: This vehicle is classified as a Sedan/Saloon with 4 doors and seating for 5 passengers, potentially designed for comfort and convenience.
• Advanced Safety Options: Features such as Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) are optional, possibly indicating available upgrades for enhanced safety.
• Manufacturing Details: The plant located in Regensburg, Germany possibly provides insight into the vehicle’s production location, underscoring its potential manufacturing pedigree.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a 2017 BMW M3

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