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How do I decode my BMW VIN number?
How do I read my BMW’s vehicle identification number (VIN)? What does each digit mean?
Phoebe Mah · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Your BMW’s vehicle identification number, or VIN, is a 17-digit unique code that represents specifics related to your car, including the manufacture date and more.
- Digit 1: This is where the car was assembled. If the VIN starts with a W, it means it was assembled in Germany. If it starts with a 5, the vehicle was assembled in the U.S.
- Digit 2: This character indicates the manufacturer. The letter B means manufactured in Germany; the letters U or Y mean manufactured in the U.S.
- Digit 3: This is the vehicle type. Typically, it will be an X or A.
- Digits 4–8: This section of the VIN describes the particular vehicle, such as the model, body style, engine type, and transmission.
- Digit 9: This digit will verify the VIN is valid. There will be an error in the VIN if you input it incorrectly.
- Digits 10–11: The year and factory where it was assembled.
- Digits 12–17: These final characters make up the factory’s production sequence number, identifying the vehicle itself as a unique product.
Hopefully, this helps you understand how to read a BMW’s VIN!
MORE: 10 ways to get cheap car insurance that’s actually good
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