MODEL IDENTIFICATION

MODEL

MODEL CODE ⁽¹⁾

ENGINE

ENGINE VIN ID ⁽²⁾

FUEL SYSTEM ⁽³⁾

IGNITION SYSTEM ⁽⁴⁾

318i

CA53

1.8L (M42) 4-Cyl.

18 4S 1

Bosch Motronic (SFI)

DIS

318is

BE53

1.8L (M42) 4-Cyl.

18 4S 1

Bosch Motronic (SFI)

DIS

325i

CB33

2.5L (M50) 6-Cyl.

25 6S 1

Bosch Motronic (SFI)

DIS

325iC

BB13

2.5L (M50) 6-Cyl.

25 6S 1

Bosch Motronic (SFI)

DIS

325is

BF33

2.5L (M50) 6-Cyl.

25 6S 1

Bosch Motronic (SFI)

DIS

525i

HD53

2.5L (M50) 6-Cyl.

25 6S 1

Bosch Motronic (SFI)

DIS

535i

HD13

3.5L (M30) 6-Cyl.

35 6S 1

Bosch Motronic (SFI)

Magnetic

740i

GD43

4.0L (M60) V8

40 8S 1

Bosch Motronic (SFI)

DIS

740iL ⁽⁵⁾

GD83

4.0L (M60) V8

40 8S 1

Bosch Motronic (SFI)

DIS

⁽¹⁾	Model code designated by 4th through 7th VIN positions identifies body type and engine identification. See VIN DEFINITION.

⁽²⁾	Engine is identified as part of 4-digit model code.

⁽³⁾	Airflow meter assembly type system.

⁽⁴⁾	With Digital Motor Electronics (DME) engine management system.

⁽⁵⁾	"L" indicates long wheelbase vehicle.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.

• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.

• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.

• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.

• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

Safety Warning

Engine/VIN Id: Identification

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

When to See a Mechanic

Rather have a pro handle this?