Free BMW Z8 VIN Decoder

How to decode a BMW Z8 VIN

Characters 1-3 of a BMW Z8 VIN

World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) codes are unique three-letter or -digit sequences assigned to every vehicle manufacturer globally, offering a standardized method to identify the vehicle’s maker, country of origin, and vehicle type. The WMI for BMW AG, specifically for models like the BMW Z8 produced between 2001 and 2003, begins with ‘WBA’, indicating that these luxury vehicles were manufactured by BMW in Germany. The WBA code is typically followed by a more detailed Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) that can uncover specifics about the vehicle, including its unique features, specifications, and manufacture location within Germany, providing valuable data for identification, registration, and insurance purposes. This coding system allows for the easy recognition of the manufacturer and vehicle type, confirming the car’s authenticity and lineage.

List of WMI Codes for a BMW Z8

WMI: WBA

• Model Years Covered: 2001-2003
• Example VIN: WBAEJ13401AH60304
• 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 Z8 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 Z8:

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 Z8 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 Z8 VIN — Year Code

11th Character in the BMW Z8 VIN — Plant Code(s)

Known BMW Z8 Assembly Factory VIN Code(s)

VIN Characters 12 - 17 of a BMW Z8

The final 6 characters in a BMW Z8’s 17-digit VIN are its serial number, which will be unique to every vehicle.

What info can a BMW Z8 VIN reveal?

• Model Year: The VIN can reveal the vehicle’s model year, which in this instance might be the year 2001, potentially giving insights into the age and historical value of the vehicle.
• Manufacturing Details: It may indicate that the vehicle was manufactured in Munich, Germany, possibly suggesting the production location and country.
• Vehicle Specifications: The VIN decodes to show the vehicle as a BMW Z8 model, with notable features including a body class of Convertible/Cabriolet and a trim level specified as Roadster, offering insights into the vehicle’s design and structure.
• Engine Specifications: It details the engine as having an 8-cylinder configuration with a displacement of 4.9 liters, or equivalently 4900 CC/301.5 CI, and an engine brake horsepower beginning from 394, which might be attributed to BMW-AG as the manufacturer.
• Fuel Type: The primary fuel type for this vehicle is possibly gasoline, indicating the engine’s compatibility with standard fuel types.
• Safety Features: Safety equipment such as front airbags for both the driver and passenger in the 1st row, and a manual type seatbelt, alongside a dual-stage Advanced Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), can be inferred from the VIN details, potentially offering insights into the vehicle’s safety features.
• Number of Doors: This vehicle is specified to have 2 doors, which is typical for Convertible/Cabriolet body types, emphasizing its design and functionality.

Sample VIN Decode Report for a BMW Z8