Precision VIN Decoder
Private, instant, browser-based specs analysis for BMW, Audi, Tesla, and Porsche.
How to Read a 17-Character VIN
A guide to the standard ISO 3779 Vehicle Identification Number layout.
WMI (World Manufacturer Identifier)
The first three digits define the country of origin, vehicle manufacturer, and division. For instance, 5YJ indicates Tesla USA, while WBA stands for BMW Germany.
VDS (Vehicle Descriptor Section)
Digits 4 to 8 describe the vehicle characteristics such as model series, body type, restraint options, drive units, or battery type.
Check Digit Security
Digit 9 is a mathematical check digit. By running a weighted modulo-11 calculation, manufacturers prevent serial number tampering and entry errors.
Model Year Code
Digit 10 indicates the model year. The codes cycle through letters and numbers (e.g. L represents 2020, N is 2022, and T is 2026).
Explore Dedicated Vehicle Guides & WMI Registers
Deep dive into specific manufacturer numbering rules, assembly factory codes, and check digit calculations.
Popular Models
Manufacturer Codes
Math & Inspection
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about decoding car VIN codes.
How does the VIN check-digit validation work?
Every official 17-digit VIN contains a check digit at position 9. It uses a mathematical weight-factor formula (Modulo 11). The letters are converted to specific numeric values, multiplied by position weights, summed, and divided by 11. The remainder (0-9 or X) must match the 9th digit of your VIN. If it doesn't match, the VIN has a typo or is invalid.
Is my VIN number sent to any server?
No. FastVIN works 100% locally in your browser. All decoding logic, manufacturer mappings, plant locations, and checksum checks are calculated inside your browser's client-side memory using JavaScript. No database requests are made, and no VINs are stored on our servers.
Can I share a decoded VIN with others?
Yes! When you decode a VIN, it is instantly appended to the browser address bar as a query parameter (e.g. fastvindecoder.com/?vin=5YJ...). You can simply copy and share this link, and it will decode automatically for anyone who clicks it, keeping all operations local.
What details are parsed by this tool?
For BMW, Audi, Tesla, and Porsche, FastVIN decodes WMI (manufacturer & country), model series, body styles, restraint configurations, engine/battery capacity, motor layouts, manufacturing plant locations, and the production serial number. For other brands, it decodes the WMI, checksum validity, and sequential production code.
Where is the physical VIN located on my car?
It is most commonly found in two places: (1) on the driver's side dashboard near the bottom corner of the windshield, visible from the outside, and (2) on the driver's side B-pillar door jamb sticker.
Why are some options not shown?
Standard VIN decoders read structural options embedded in the 17-digit code (such as engine, battery size, and drive layout). They do not show custom aftermarket accessories or software upgrades (like Tesla's FSD option), which require accessing the manufacturer's active database.
How do I decode a Tesla VIN number?
Enter your 17-character Tesla VIN above. FastVIN decodes the WMI (e.g. 5YJ for Fremont, CA or LRW for Shanghai), model line (Model S, 3, X, Y, Cybertruck), battery and motor configuration (Single Motor RWD, Dual Motor AWD, Performance), model year, and assembly plant.
How do I check a BMW, Audi, or Porsche VIN for free?
Paste your 17-character BMW, Audi, or Porsche VIN into the search box. FastVIN instantly validates the official 9th check-digit using the Modulo 11 formula, then displays the body type, engine displacement, manufacturing plant, and production year without requiring an account or fee.