VIN Decoder
Mercedes-Benz VIN Decoder
Mercedes-Benz changed its VIN prefixes in recent years, moving from the long-running WDB, WDC and WDD codes to W1K and W1N. Both appear on the used market, and both are legitimate. American-built GLE and GLS models carry a 4JG prefix.
Decode a Mercedes-Benz VIN
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Mercedes-Benz WMI prefixes
The first three characters of a VIN are the World Manufacturer Identifier. For Mercedes-Benz they identify both the manufacturer and, usually, the country and plant of assembly.
| WMI | What it identifies |
|---|---|
| WDB | Mercedes-Benz, Germany — older passenger cars |
| WDD | Mercedes-Benz, Germany — passenger cars |
| WDC | Mercedes-Benz, Germany — SUVs |
| W1K | Mercedes-Benz, Germany — current passenger cars |
| W1N | Mercedes-Benz, Germany — current SUVs |
| 4JG | Mercedes-Benz, Alabama — GLE, GLS and related |
These are Mercedes-Benz’s common assignments, not a complete register. Manufacturers hold many WMI codes and are allocated more over time. The decode itself comes from NHTSA, not from this table.
What to know about Mercedes-Benz VINs
The model designation is in the descriptor
Mercedes encodes the chassis code — W205, W213, X253 and so on — within the descriptor section. That chassis code is more precise than the marketing name and is what parts catalogues use, so it is worth noting from the decode.
AMG models are not a separate manufacturer
Unlike BMW's M division, AMG cars carry standard Mercedes-Benz WMI codes. The engine field is what identifies a genuine AMG, so check displacement and configuration on the report rather than relying on the prefix.
Sprinter vans decode as incomplete vehicles
A Sprinter sold as a chassis or cutaway for upfitting will decode with specifications describing the base vehicle, not the body that was built onto it afterwards.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a WDD and a W1K Mercedes VIN?
They are both Mercedes-Benz passenger cars built in Germany. W1K is the newer code, phased in as the older WDD allocations filled up. Neither indicates anything about specification or quality — only when the code was assigned.
How do I verify a Mercedes-AMG from the VIN?
AMG models use standard Mercedes-Benz manufacturer codes, so the prefix will not tell you. Check the engine displacement and configuration on the decoded report against the AMG specification for that model year — a genuine AMG engine is distinctive.
Where is the VIN on a Mercedes Sprinter?
The windshield and driver's door jamb as usual, and additionally stamped on the floor beneath the front passenger seat on many Sprinters. On a used van that has been upfitted, the door jamb label is the one most likely to have been covered by cabinetry.