ToolviaMercedes-Benz VIN decoder
Mercedes-Benz changed its manufacturer codes a few years ago, so a newer car may start with W1K or W1N where an older one starts with WDD or WDC. Both are genuine, and both are decoded the same way.
Enter a Mercedes VIN to see the model, body style, engine and plant, together with recalls and owner complaints for that model year.
Mercedes-Benz manufacturer codes (WMI)
The first three characters of a Mercedes-Benz VIN are its World Manufacturer Identifier. These are the ones you’re most likely to see on vehicles sold in the United States:
| VIN starts with | Meaning |
|---|---|
WDD | Mercedes-Benz cars (older range) |
W1K | Mercedes-Benz cars (newer range) |
WDC | Mercedes-Benz SUVs (older range) |
W1N | Mercedes-Benz SUVs (newer range) |
4JG | Mercedes-Benz SUVs built in Alabama |
55S | Mercedes-Benz cars built in Alabama |
Not sure what the rest of the characters mean? Our guide to what each digit in a VIN means walks through all 17, and the VIN year chart shows how to read the model year from the 10th character.
How to read a Mercedes-Benz VIN
Germany or Alabama?
A VIN starting with W was built in Germany. 4JG means an SUV from the Mercedes plant near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where many GLE and GLS models are made, and 55S was used for C-Class sedans built there.
Older and newer codes
If you’re comparing two cars of the same model and one starts WDD while the other starts W1K, don’t worry. The newer W1 codes simply replaced the older ones for recent model years.
Option codes need the data card
Every Mercedes has a data card that lists its factory option codes. That information isn’t in the public VIN record, but a dealer can print it from the VIN.
Before you buy a used Mercedes-Benz: what to check with the VIN
Once you’ve decoded the VIN, these are the Mercedes-Benz-specific things worth comparing against the listing.
Rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC?
Many Mercedes models come with either. The Drive type row in the report shows which one the car has.
Check the model against the badge
Badges are easy to change. Compare the decoded model and engine with what the seller says, especially on AMG-styled cars.
Ask a dealer for the data card
For a high-value car, a dealer printout of the data card lists every factory option. It\u2019s the best way to confirm packages that the public VIN record doesn\u2019t cover.
Where to find the VIN on a Mercedes-Benz
Check the dashboard through the windshield on the driver’s side first, then the label on the driver’s door jamb. The VIN is also printed on the title, registration and insurance card. See all the places to look.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my Mercedes VIN start with W1K?
W1K is Mercedes-Benz’s newer manufacturer code for passenger cars. It replaced WDD on recent model years, so it doesn’t indicate anything unusual about the car.
Can I find the exact Mercedes model from the VIN?
Yes. Decode it above and the report shows the model, series and body style that Mercedes-Benz reported to NHTSA.
Is the Sprinter van decoded here too?
Yes. Sprinter VINs work in the same decoder.
Mercedes-Benz is a trademark of its owner. Toolvia is an independent site and isn’t affiliated with Mercedes-Benz. Decoded details come from data the manufacturer reports to NHTSA.