Free BMW M550i VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW M550i VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW M550i VIN

The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) is a unique code that forms the first three characters of a vehicle’s Identification Number (VIN), providing essential insights into the vehicle’s origin and make. For the BMW M550i, the WMI WBA distinctly identifies it as a vehicle manufactured by BMW AG, affirming its German heritage. This particular code not only pinpoints the manufacturing plant in Munich but also classifies the vehicle type as a passenger car. Covering model years from 2018 to 2023, it ensures precise identification and access to specific information about the BMW M550i. Through this WMI, ownership of an M550i guarantees a blend of luxury and performance synonymous with its German engineering.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW M550i

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 2018-2023
• Example VIN: WBAJB9C50JG463630
• 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 M550i 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 M550i:

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 M550i 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 M550i VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW M550i VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW M550i Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW M550i

The final 6 characters in a BMW M550i’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW M550i VIN reveal?

• Model Year and Make: The VIN may indicate the production year and specific model of the vehicle, providing valuable insights into its age and model specifications.
• Safety Features: The VIN data suggests that the vehicle may come equipped with a comprehensive range of safety features, including Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Curtain Air Bags for both the 1st and 2nd rows, potentially enhancing passenger security.
• Engine Specifications: The VIN reveals engine details such as 455 horsepower, 8 cylinders, and a displacement of 4.395 liters, highlighting the potential for detailed performance-related data conveyed by the VIN.
• Fuel Type and Efficiency: Information from the VIN indicates that the vehicle is powered by gasoline, with available engine displacement specifications, possibly influencing the car’s performance and efficiency.
• Drive Type and Transmission: The VIN suggests that the vehicle features an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system and an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing insights into the vehicle’s drivetrain and handling capabilities.
• Plant Information: The VIN data suggests that the vehicle was manufactured in Dingolfing, Germany, revealing insights into the global diversity of vehicle production locations and potential manufacturing standards.
• Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): The presence of advanced features such as Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW) as standard, along with optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), highlights the vehicle’s technological advancements for enhancing driver safety and convenience.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW M550i