Mercedes Benz VIN Decoder, Options List and Build Sheet Check
Try It Yourself. Copy/Paste This Mercedes VIN Into Our Decoder Below: W1N0G8EB1MF024680
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VIN Decoder & Build Sheet
Check VIN identity, factory spec, recalls, complaints, and ownership risks before you buy.
Standard 17 character VIN. Must not contain letters Q, I, or O.
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VIN and Factory Spec
Current Market Value
Engine and Platform Health Check
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Full Recall Information
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Problems and Issues
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Efficiency and Running Costs
30,000 Mile Ownership Roadmap
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Recall Records
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Authentic Data
Efficiency Intelligence
Fuel Economy, Emissions & Running Cost
EPA fuel economy for the vehicle year and model profile.
Combined MPG
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Matching official economy records.
Annual Fuel Cost
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Looking for annual running cost data.
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Reviewing emissions scoring.
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Calculating eco profile.
Spec Intelligence
Additional Vehicle Specs
Supplementary spec matching for output such as power, transmission, size, and weight.
Horsepower
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Transmission
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Looking for transmission configuration.
Dimensions
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Curb Weight
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Looking for curb weight estimate.
Safety Intelligence
Recalls, Complaints & Mechanical Failures
Model level safety and complaint data for the decoded year, make, and model.
Open Recall Records
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Reviewing manufacturer safety recall records.
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Reviewing owner reported defect records.
Top Failure Area
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Most frequent complaint area for this vehicle profile.
Specialist Intelligence
Vehicle Ownership Insights
Platform specific reliability patterns, critical engine platform audits, and pre purchase inspection guidance.
Vehicle Generation
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Complaint Activity
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Complaint trend level will appear here.
Maintenance Complexity
Higher
Turbocharged engines, advanced electronics, and performance drivetrains make this vehicle more complex than typical mass market vehicles.
Common Problem Areas
Powertrain Insight
Turbocharged engines are common in this vehicle profile. Buyers usually inspect cooling system condition, oil leaks, ignition components, and smooth transmission operation when evaluating a used vehicle.
What to Check Before Buying
Expert Intelligence
Likely Factory Option Profile
Probability model for common package combinations around this production era.
Likely Sport Package
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N/A
Likely Comfort Package
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N/A
Likely Tech Package
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Where to Find Your Mercedes VIN and Data Card
The VIN is in the usual places, but Mercedes also records every factory option against it on a data card, and older cars often carry a copy of that card with them.
The VIN
- Windshield Bottom of the glass on the driver side, read from outside
- Door pillar The label in the driver door opening, with the build date and tire pressures
- Under the hood Stamped on many models, often on the firewall or a strut tower
- Paperwork Title, registration, insurance card and the Mercedes me app
The data card
- Trunk or spare wheel well Many older Mercedes have a data card sticker listing the SA codes
- Service booklet wallet Classic cars often came with a paper data card
- Paint code On the label in the door opening or under the hood, depending on the model
Mercedes VIN Breakdown: How to Read a Mercedes-Benz VIN
Mercedes uses two VIN layouts. Cars built for the US and Canada use a coded descriptor in characters 4 to 8. Cars built for Europe and the UK put the model number straight into the VIN, which we cover in the next section. Here's a US spec 2021 GLC 300 4MATIC.
W1N0G8EB1MF024680: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC, US spec, built in Bremen, Germany
- W1N: maker and type
- W is Germany and 1N is a Mercedes SUV. Since around 2020, Mercedes cars start W1K and SUVs W1N. Before that they started WDD and WDC.
- 0G: model line
- 0G is the GLC SUV, the X253 generation. A GLC Coupe shows 0J.
- 8E: model and drive
- Together these mark a GLC 300 with 4MATIC all wheel drive.
- B: restraint system
- The airbag and belt setup, coded for US rules.
- 1: check digit
- A sum of the other 16 characters. If it doesn't add up, the VIN has been typed or copied wrong.
- M: model year
- M is 2021.
- F: plant
- F is Bremen, where Mercedes builds the GLC.
- 024680: serial
- This GLC's own production number.
Mercedes VIN prefixes
- W1K Mercedes car, about 2020 on
- W1N Mercedes SUV, about 2020 on
- WDD Mercedes car, 2006 to about 2020
- WDC Mercedes SUV built in Germany, before W1N
- WDB Older Mercedes cars, 1981 to about 2012
- 4JG SUVs built in Alabama: M-Class, GLE, GL and GLS
- 55S C-Class built in Alabama, 2015 to 2020
- W1W, WD3 and WD4 Sprinter and Mercedes vans
Mercedes factory letters in character 11
- A, B and C Sindelfingen, Germany
- F, G and H Bremen, Germany
- J and K Rastatt, Germany
- R East London, South Africa
- U Vance, Alabama
- V Uusikaupunki, Finland
- W Aguascalientes, Mexico
- X and 7 Graz, Austria
Alabama built SUVs with a 4JG prefix usually show A.
Year letters for US Mercedes VINs, character 10
- 12001
- 22002
- 32003
- 42004
- 52005
- 62006
- 72007
- 82008
- 92009
- A2010
- B2011
- C2012
- D2013
- E2014
- F2015
- G2016
- H2017
- J2018
- K2019
- L2020
- M2021
- N2022
- P2023
- R2024
- S2025
- T2026
Mercedes Chassis Number Check: UK and European VINs
On a Mercedes built for Europe or the UK, characters 4 to 9 are the model number, so the W code is right there in the VIN. A VIN starting WDD205 is a W205 C-Class, and the three digits after it are the exact model variant. That's why Mercedes owners call the VIN the chassis number.
Character 10 on these cars often isn't the year. It's usually 1 for left hand drive or 2 for right hand drive, and character 11 is still the plant. If you're decoding a UK or imported Mercedes, check the build date on the door label for the year.
| Model | Chassis codes by generation |
|---|---|
| C-Class | W202, W203, W204, W205, W206 from 2021 |
| E-Class | W124, W210, W211, W212, W213, W214 from 2023 |
| S-Class | W126, W140, W220, W221, W222, W223 from 2020 |
| GLC and GLK | X204 GLK, X253 GLC, X254 GLC from 2022 |
| M-Class and GLE | W163, W164, W166, V167 from 2019 |
| GL and GLS | X164, X166, X167 from 2019 |
| G-Class | W460, W463, W463A from 2018 |
| CLS | C219, C218, C257 from 2018 |
W is a sedan, C a coupe, R a roadster, X and V mostly SUVs. The full list is in the code list below.
Mercedes Build Sheet and Options List by VIN
Every Mercedes leaves the factory with a data card that lists its SA codes, the three character codes for each option and package. That data card is the real Mercedes build sheet. Here's how to get yours.
The data card from a dealer
A Mercedes dealer can print the data card from the VIN, with every SA code the car was built with. Paste those codes into our decoder for plain English.
Window sticker
The original Monroney sticker lists the packages and options by name, with prices. Most Mercedes dealers can pull a copy.
Mercedes-Benz USA and Mercedes me
For 2023 and newer US models, the vehicle information page on the Mercedes-Benz USA site shows details by VIN. The Mercedes me app lists your car's equipment once it's added.
Mercedes-Benz Classic Center
For older cars, the Classic archive can supply a copy of the original data card for a fee. It's worth it before buying a valuable classic.
Mercedes SA Code and Option Decoder
Paste the SA codes from your data card, or any engine, chassis or paint code. You get each one back in plain English, from 23P and 489 to M276 and W205.
Separate codes with spaces, commas or new lines.
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Find one code
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Type a code or a name to search.
Click a code to copy it. Some Mercedes package codes mean different things on different models, so check against your data card.
Mercedes SA Codes Explained
SA stands for Sonderausstattung, German for special equipment. A data card can run to 50 codes or more, and they follow a few patterns.
Three digit codes
Single options and features, like 275 for the memory package, 443 for a heated steering wheel or 494 for a US version car.
P codes
Packages, like P30 and P31 on a W204 C63 or 23P for the Driver Assistance Package. The same P code can mean different things on different models.
U codes and letters
Codes ending in U usually cover connected services and apps, like 14U for smartphone integration. H codes are often interior trim.
| Code | What it means | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| P30 | AMG Performance Package on the W204 C63 | Limited slip differential, bigger brakes and firmer suspension |
| P31 | AMG Development Package on the W204 C63 | Forged pistons and about 30 more horsepower. Rare and valuable |
| 23P | Driver Assistance Package | DISTRONIC, steering assist and blind spot help, a big part of a newer car's value |
| 487 | Active Body Control | Hydraulic suspension on S-Class and SL. Great ride, costly repairs |
| 489 | AIRMATIC air suspension | Check for sagging or a slow rising car |
| 494 | US version | Confirms a US spec car, useful when checking an import |
Mercedes Paint Codes and Color Swatches
Mercedes paint codes are three digits, and touch up paint often adds a fourth at the front, so 197 can show as 9197. These are the colors you'll see most on Mercedes from the last 15 years.
040
Black
Solid black, standard on most models.
197
Obsidian Black Metallic
The most popular Mercedes black.
149
Polar White
Solid white, usually no extra cost.
799
Diamond White Metallic
Tri coat white, a paid option.
885
Opal White Bright
Pearl white on newer models.
792
Palladium Silver Metallic
Light silver, very common in the 2010s.
775
Iridium Silver Metallic
Long running mid silver.
859
Mojave Silver Metallic
Warm silver with a gold tint.
922
High-Tech Silver Metallic
Bright modern silver.
831
Graphite Grey Metallic
Dark grey, often called Graphite Gray in the US.
992
Selenite Grey Metallic
Mid grey on 2010s and 2020s models.
755
Tenorite Grey Metallic
Dark grey from the late 2000s and early 2010s.
890
Cavansite Blue Metallic
Deep blue.
970
Spectral Blue Metallic
Brighter blue on newer models.
996
Hyacinth Red Metallic
Deep red, also called designo Cardinal Red.
993
Patagonia Red Metallic
Bright metallic red.
Swatches are a screen guide only, so match touch up paint by the code on your car.
AMG Models and Badges: What the Numbers Mean
The VIN separates a real AMG from a car with an AMG Line body kit. Here's how the numbers on AMG models line up.
| Badge | What it usually means |
|---|---|
| AMG 35 | Turbo four, the entry AMG on A, CLA, GLA and GLB |
| AMG 43 | Turbo V6 on C, E and GLC from the mid 2010s, then a turbo four on the W206 C 43 |
| AMG 45 | The M139 turbo four, the most powerful four cylinder Mercedes builds |
| AMG 53 | The M256 straight six with mild hybrid help |
| AMG 63 | The V8. M156 naturally aspirated, then M157 and M177 twin turbo |
| AMG 65 | The twin turbo V12, now discontinued |
| AMG Line | Styling package on a regular Mercedes, not an AMG engine |
Mercedes Engine and Model Problems to Check by VIN
Once the VIN gives you the engine and chassis code, these are the known issues worth checking before you buy.
| Issue | Affects | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Balance shaft gear wear | M272 V6, mostly 2005 to 2008 | Check engine light with cam and crank correlation codes. Look for proof of the repair. |
| Timing chain stretch | M271 four cylinder | A rattle on cold start and cam timing codes |
| Oil cooler seal leaks | OM642 V6 diesel | Oil in the engine valley. The repair means taking the intake off. |
| Air suspension leaks | AIRMATIC cars, code 489 | A corner sitting low after parking overnight |
| Conductor plate failure | 722.9 7G-TRONIC gearbox | Harsh shifts or limp mode |
| Rust | W210 E-Class and W203 C-Class | Wheel arches, door bottoms and jacking points |
Mercedes-Benz VIN Check for Open Recalls
Our decoder shows recall campaigns for the model and year. Mercedes has run some large ones, including the emergency call system recall that covered more than a million cars, so always check the VIN of the car itself.
In the US
Mercedes-Benz USA and NHTSA both search open recalls by VIN. Recall work is free at any Mercedes dealer.
In the UK
Use the DVSA recall checker or ask a Mercedes retailer to check the VIN.
Elsewhere
Your local Mercedes dealer or national recall site can check open campaigns by VIN.
Mercedes Option Codes List: SA, Package, Engine and Paint Codes
Every code our Mercedes decoder recognizes, grouped the way you'll find them on a data card.
Mercedes SA codes: comfort, technology and seating
- 218 Rear view camera, reversing camera
- 219 Proximity-controlled cruise control, DISTRONIC
- 220 PARKTRONIC parking guidance system, PTS
- 223 Rear backrest adjustment and head restraints, electric
- 224 Individual rear seat and head restraints, electrically adjustable
- 228 Auxiliary heater, standheizung
- 231 Garage door opener, HomeLink
- 232 Garage door opener 284 to 390 MHz frequency
- 235 Active Parking Assist, automated steering into parking spaces
- 247 Front seat adjustment electrically operable from rear
- 249 Inside and outside mirror automatic dimming
- 275 Memory Package, driver seat, steering column and exterior mirrors
- 276 Memory feature for rear seats
- 282 Ski bag or ski hatch through to luggage compartment
- 284 Selector lever in wood trim
- 289 Wood, leather steering wheel
- 293 Side airbags in rear left and right
- 297 Sun blind, roller blind in rear doors left and right
- 301 Smoker package, ashtray, lighter
- 308 Refrigerator in rear, rear centre console
- 309 Cup holder, front centre console
- 310 Double cup holder
- 345 Rain sensor, automatic wipers
- 347 TELEAID emergency call system
- 351 eCall emergency call system
- 352 COMAND navigation and entertainment system
- 359 TELEAID USA, emergency telematics system
- 401 Deluxe front seats with ventilation and heating, multicontour
- 402 Comfort rear seats with ventilation and seat heating
- 404 Multi-contour seat, front left
- 405 Multi-contour seat, front right
- 406 Multi-contour rear seat
- 407 Folding table, manually adjustable, rear left
- 408 Folding table, manually adjustable, rear right
- 413 Automatic panoramic sliding sunroof, glass
- 414 Electric tilt, slide sunroof in glass version
- 432 Dynamic seats left and right, massage and lateral support
- 433 Left driving dynamics seat
- 434 Right driving dynamics seat
- 436 Driver and front passenger luxury head restraint
- 439 Intelligent, folding front comfort head restraint
- 443 Heated steering wheel
- 448 Touchpad with rotary pushbutton, COMAND controller
- 461 Instrument cluster with miles indication and English legend
- 463 Head-up display, front visual display
- 475 Tyre Pressure Monitor, TPM High Line or Mid Line
- 477 Tyre pressure loss warning system
- 479 Adjustable suspension or Electronic Suspension
- 481 Undershields, off-road underbody protection
- 487 ABC Suspension, Active Body Control, active hydraulic suspension
- 489 AIRMATIC Dual Control or air suspension semi-active
- 500 Exterior rear view mirrors, left and right, folding
- 501 3surround view camera system
- 503 Remote-controlled parking, PARKTRONIC remote
- 513 Road sign recognition system
- 518 Universal Communications Interface, UCI, AUX input
- 524 Paintwork preservation, factory wax treatment
- 527 COMAND DVD APS with navigation, Europe
- 530 COMAND DVD APS USA with navigation
- 531 COMAND APS NTG5, NTG5.5, current navigation system
- 536 SiriusXM satellite radio, complete system
- 537 Digital Radio DAB, Digital Audio Broadcasting
- 540 Electric roller blind for rear window
- 543 Sun visor with make-up mirror, left and right
- 551 Anti-theft or anti-break-in warning system, alarm
- 573 Child seat mounting, ISOFIX in rear
- 580 Air conditioning, standard Klimaanlage
- 582 Air conditioning in the rear
- 584 Electric window regulator
- 595 Heat-insulating and IR-reflecting safety glass, side and rear
- 596 Heat-insulating and IR-reflecting safety glass, all-round
- 600 Headlamp cleaning equipment, washer jets
- 610 Night View Assist Plus, infrared pedestrian detection
- 612 Headlamp, Xenon, right-hand traffic
- 613 Headlamp, left-hand traffic adaptation
- 614 Bi-Xenon headlamps for right-hand traffic
- 628 Automatic high beam control plus, Intelligent High Beam
- 641 Dynamic LED headlamps, left-hand traffic
- 673 High-capacity battery, extended-range battery
- 810 Sound system, Soundsystem, premium audio
- 811 Burmester High-End 3D Surround Sound System
- 812 Burmester premium sound system, standard Burmester
- 814 DVD changer
- 819 CD changer
- 840 Dark tinted glass, Glas dunkel getönt
- 873 Seat heater for left and right front seats
- 875 Heated windscreen wash system
- 887 Separate trunk lid locking, rear lock independent of central lock
Mercedes SA codes: safety and driver assistance
- 237 Active Blind Spot Assist, BSA, radar rear-side detection
- 238 Active Lane Keeping Assist, FAP, corrective steering intervention
- 253 Rear impact warning and protection system, PRE-SAFE PLUS
- 258 Collision Warning System with FCW-Stop active brake application
- 266 DISTRONIC PLUS with transverse guidance, DTR+Q, semi-autonomous
- 268 Brake Assist System Plus, BAS Plus
- 269 Brake Assist Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist, BAS+Q
- 271 Autonomous brake application or pedestrian protection, PRE-SAFE Brake
- 299 PRE-SAFE occupant protection system
- 300 PRE-SAFE Brake, Collision Minimization Braking System
- 294 Knee airbag, driver
- 438 Crash-active head restraints, CAK, activates in rear-end impact
- 474 Diesel particulate filter, DPF
- 486 Sports suspension or lowered suspension
- 386 Mobile phone pre-installation, preparation for handsfree kit
- 390 LINGUATRONIC voice control, English, British
- 813 LINGUATRONIC German voice operation system
Mercedes package codes
- 23P Driver Assistance Package, with DISTRONIC, steering assist and Stop and Go
- P09 Sun Protection Package, tinted glass all-round
- P17 KEYLESS-GO Package, keyless entry and start
- P20 Driving Assistance Package, safety systems bundle
- P27 Style Package, with AMG Sports Package
- P29 AMG Interior Sports Package upgrade
- P30 AMG Performance Package on the W204 C63: limited slip differential, bigger brakes, firmer suspension
- P34 Exclusive Package, designo leather, special trim
- P35 Light Package, Intelligent Light System bundle
- P42 Rear Seat Memory Package
- P43 Rear Seat Comfort Package, heating, ventilation, massage
- P45 Harman Kardon Front Seat Entertainment Package
- P46 Harman Kardon Rear Seat Entertainment Package
- P48 Front Seat Comfort Package
- P49 Mirror Package, auto-dimming, folding, memory
- P54 Anti-Theft Protection Package
- P64 Memory Package, driver's seat, steering column, mirrors
- P65 Luxury Package, A, B, CLA-class luxury upgrade
- P86 Premium Package, technology and comfort bundle
- P96 Driver Assistance Package Plus
- P97 Parking Package, surround cameras, PARKTRONIC
- 14U Smartphone Integration Package, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- 17U Android Auto integration
- 01U Mercedes me Connect, services for navigation
- 08U Mercedes me Connect, vehicle setup services, HERMES
- 09U Mercedes me Connect, vehicle monitoring
- 12U Mercedes me Connect, concierge service
- 26U Mercedes me Connect, remote engine start
- 735 Exclusive trim package, interior upgrade
- 51B Euro NCAP rating country group specification
- P31 AMG Development Package on the W204 C63: forged pistons and about 30 more horsepower
AMG styling and wheel codes
- 772 AMG Styling Package, front spoiler, side skirts
- 776 Wider wheel arch for AMG wheels
- 782 AMG spoke wheels 18" with mixed tyres
- 793 AMG double-spoke wheels 19" with mixed tyres
- 760 AMG multi-spoke wheels 18" with mixed tyres
Mercedes market, version and delivery codes
- 494 US version, North American specification
- 498 Japanese version
- 623 Version for Gulf States, Middle East specification
- 625 Version for Australia
- 705L United States, market destination identifier
- 7XXL North and South America
- 5XXL Europe
- 839L Japan market
- 537L Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- 264 License plate mounting for the Americas
- 263 License plate mounting for Asia and Mexico
- 260 Type designation on trunk lid, elimination, deleted badge
- 261 Type designation on fender, side, deletion
- 634 Deletion, First Aid Kit, Verbandkasten Wegfall
- 636 Deletion, Warning Triangle, Warndreieck Wegfall
- 645 Winter tyres M+S, snow tyres
- 690 Emergency spare tyre, mini spare
- 805 Year of Modification, Änderungsjahr, model year change
- 110 Fuel amount for collection by customer, pre-delivery fuel
- 668 Packaging for shipping vehicles with tie-down hooks
Mercedes engine codes
- M102 2.0 to 2.3 inline four SOHC petrol, W123, W201, W124, 1980 to 1992
- M103 2.6 to 3.0 inline six SOHC petrol, W124, W126, W201, 1984 to 1997
- M104 2.8 to 3.2 inline six DOHC 4v petrol, W124, W140, W202, 1992 to 1999
- M110 2.7 inline six DOHC petrol, W114, W123, W116 and R107, 1972 to 1986
- M111 1.8 to 2.3 inline four DOHC, SLK, C, E-Class, 1993 to 2004
- M112 2.4 to 3.7 90 degree V6 SOHC petrol, W210, W203, W220, 1997 to 2006
- M113 4.3 to 5.5 90 degree V8 SOHC petrol, W211, W220, R230, 1998 to 2010
- M116 3.5 to 4.5 V8, SOHC, W116, R107 and early W126, 1969 to 1985
- M117 3.8 to 5.6 90 degree V8 SOHC, W126, R107, 1971 to 1991
- M119 4.2 to 6.0 90 degree V8 DOHC 32v, W124, W140, R129, 1989 to 1999
- M120 6.0 V12 DOHC 48v petrol, W140, R129, W220, 1992 to 2002
- M137 5.8 V12, naturally aspirated, W220 S 600 and C215 CL 600, about, 1998 to 2002
- M156 6.2 AMG naturally aspirated V8, C, E, SL, G, M 63 AMG, 2006 to 2015
- M157 5.5 AMG twin turbo V8, S, CLS, G, GLE, GLS 63 AMG, 2011 to 2018
- M159 6.2 AMG V8, SLS AMG, 2010 to 2015
- M176 4.0 twin turbo V8 for non AMG models: G 550, S 560, GLE 580 and GLS 580, 2017 on
- M177 4.0 AMG twin turbo V8, 63-series: C, E, GLC, GLE, GLS AMG 2015 on
- M178 4.0 AMG twin turbo V8, AMG GT, GT S, R, C, Black 2015 on
- M256 3.0 inline six turbo and 48V EQ Boost mild hybrid, E, CLS, S 450, 500, 53 2017 on
- M264 2.0 inline four turbo with a 48V belt starter, C, E and GLC 300, 2018 on
- M271 1.8 inline four turbo or kompressor, C, E, SLK 200 to 250, 2002 to 2015
- M272 3.0 to 3.5 V6 petrol, C, E, CLK, GL 350, 2004 to 2013
- M273 4.6 to 5.5 V8 petrol, S, CL, ML, GL 500, 550, 2006 to 2014
- M274 2.0 inline four turbo GDI, C, E, GLC 300, SLC 300, 2013 to 2021
- M275 5.5 to 6.0 V12 twin turbo, S, CL, SL 600, 65, 2004 to 2015
- M276 3.0 to 3.5 V6 twin turbo, E, C, S, GLC 400, 43, 450, 2010 to 2021
- M278 4.6 to 4.7 V8 twin turbo, S, ML, GLE 400, 500, 450, 2010 to 2018
- M279 5.5 to 6.0 V12 twin turbo, S, CL, Maybach 600 2014 on
- M282 1.3 inline four turbo developed with Renault, A, B, CLA and GLA 180 to 200, 2018 on
- M254 2.0 inline four turbo EQ Boost mild hybrid, C, GLC 300 W206 2021 on
- M139 2.0 AMG inline four turbo, most powerful four cylinder, AMG A, CLA 45 2020 on
- OM601 2.0 and 2.2 inline four diesel, W201 and W124, 1983 to 1995
- OM602 2.5 inline five diesel, W124, W126, W463, 1984 to 2000
- OM603 3.0 inline six diesel, W126, W124, W140, 1984 to 1995
- OM604 2.0 and 2.2 inline four prechamber diesel, W202 and W210, 1993 to 2000
- OM605 2.5 inline five prechamber diesel, W202 and W210, 1993 to 2000
- OM606 3.0 inline six diesel, W210 and W463, 1993 to 2001
- OM611 2.1 inline four CDI, C, E 200 to 220 CDI, 2000 to 2008
- OM612 2.7 inline five CDI, E 270 CDI, 1999 to 2006
- OM613 3.2 inline six CDI, E, S, ML 320 CDI, 1999 to 2005
- OM628 4.0 V8 CDI diesel, E, S, ML 400 CDI, 2002 to 2005
- OM642 3.0 V6 CDI and BlueTEC diesel, E, ML, GL, S and Sprinter, 2005 to 2019
- OM646 2.2 inline four CDI, C, E 200 to 220 CDI, 2004 to 2010
- OM647 2.7 inline five CDI, C, E 270 CDI, 2003 to 2009
- OM648 3.2 inline six CDI, E, S 320 CDI, 2002 to 2005
- OM651 2.1 and 2.2 inline four CDI diesel, C, E, GLC, Sprinter and V-Class, 2008 on
- OM654 2.0 inline four CDI, C, E, GLC, GLE 220d 2016 on
- OM656 2.9 to 3.0 inline six CDI, E, GLE, GLS, S 350 to 400d 2017 on
Mercedes transmission and drive codes
- 420 Automatic transmission
- 427 Automatic transmission 7-speed, 7G-TRONIC
- 421 9-speed automatic transmission, 9G-TRONIC
- 7G-TRONIC Mercedes 7-speed automatic gearbox, 722.9 2003 on
- 7G-TRONIC+ Enhanced 7G-TRONIC with coasting function
- 9G-TRONIC Mercedes 9-speed automatic gearbox, 725.0 2013 on
- 4MATIC All-wheel drive system, permanent AWD
- 4MATIC+ AMG fully variable all wheel drive that can send drive to the rear wheels only
- 722.9 7G-TRONIC transmission code, used in SA data cards
- 725.0 9G-TRONIC transmission code
- 716.6XX 6-speed manual gearbox code, SLK, C-Class
- 722.6 5-speed automatic, 5G-TRONIC
Mercedes paint codes
- 040 Black, solid non metallic
- 050 Weiss or White, solid white, heritage
- 147 Arctic White, solid white, Arcticweiss
- 149 Polar White, solid white
- 153 Snow White or Glacier White
- 172 Anthracite Grey Metallic, Anthrazitgrau
- 185 Melanite Black Metallic
- 189 Emerald Black or Black Opal, Smaragdschwarz
- 190 Graphite Grey, Graphitgrau
- 195 Meteor Grey Metallic, Meteorgrau
- 197 Obsidian Black Metallic, deep metallic black
- 355 Cubanite Silver Metallic
- 376 Green Hell Magno, AMG matte green, MANUFAKTUR
- 590 Jupiter Red Metallic
- 650 Cirrus White or Calcite White, non-metallic white, A, CLA class
- 696 Night Black, solid black, some markets
- 723 Designo Allanite Grey Metallic
- 744 Brilliant Silver Metallic
- 755 Tenorite Grey Metallic
- 775 Iridium Silver Metallic, common premium silver
- 787 Mountain Grey Metallic, Mountaingrau
- 792 Palladium Silver Metallic
- 799 Diamond White Metallic, Diamantweis
- 830 Aqua Green Metallic
- 831 Graphite Grey Metallic, current standard dark grey
- 890 Cavansite Blue Metallic, Cavansitblau
- 894 Vanda Blue Metallic
- 900 Deep Blue or Surf Blue, Surfblau
- 903 Blue, Blau, solid blue
- 920 Deep Blue, Tiefblau
- 929 Nautical Blue Metallic
- 931 Magnetite Blue Metallic
- 932 Lapis Blue Metallic
- 992 Selenite Grey Metallic, premium dark grey
- 996 Hyacinth Red Metallic
- 998 Blauanthrazit Metallic, blue-anthracite
- 859 Mojave Silver Metallic
- 885 Opal White Bright
- 922 High-Tech Silver Metallic
- 970 Spectral Blue Metallic
- 993 Patagonia Red Metallic
Mercedes interior, upholstery and trim codes
- 200A Leather, standard, black or unspecified
- 201A Leather, Black or Anthracite
- 202 Leather, Blue or Pacific Blue or Teal Blue
- 204 Leather, Light Tan
- 205 Leather, Mushroom
- 207 Leather, Medium Red or Brick Red or Berry Red
- 208 Leather, Grey or Slate Grey or Alpaca Grey or Orion Grey
- 211 Leather, Anthracite
- 214 Leather, Java
- 215 Leather, Quartz or Siam Beige two-tone
- 217 Leather, Magma Red
- 220A Leather, Nappa or Semi-Aniline, general code
- 801A Leather or Nappa or Semi-Aniline, Black or Anthracite
- 815A Leather or Nappa or Semi-Aniline, Beige or Cream
- H06 Brown Ash Wood, matt finish trim
- H11 Heated rear seats
- H12 Trim, Light Burr Walnut Wood
- H73 AMG carbon-fibre interior trim
- H75 Trim, Prism-pattern aluminium
- 729 Trim elements, Poplar wood
- 731 Wood trim, Burred Walnut Root
- 733 Wood trim, Chestnut or Chest Nut
- 739 Trim pieces, Aluminium, brushed aluminium
- EM7 Rear seat entertainment system, rear screens
- EM8 TV tuner with aerial booster
- FR8 Reversing camera, older generation code
- 51U Headliner in black fabric, interior roof lining
Mercedes chassis codes and VIN prefixes
- W114 Middle class sedan, the Strich Acht, 1968 to 1976
- W116 S-Class 1st gen, 1972 to 1979
- W123 Middle Class or pre-E-Class, 1975 to 1985
- W124 E-Class 1st gen, 1984 to 1995
- R129 SL, 1989 to 2001
- W126 S-Class 2nd gen, 1979 to 1991
- C126 SEC coupe, 1981 to 1991
- W140 S-Class 3rd gen, 1991 to 1999
- C140 CL-Class or S-Class Coupe, 1992 to 1999
- W201 190 or Baby Benz, 1982 to 1993
- W202 C-Class 1st gen, 1993 to 2000
- W203 C-Class 2nd gen, 2000 to 2007
- C203 C-Class Sportcoupe 2nd gen, 2001 to 2008
- W204 C-Class 3rd gen, 2007 to 2014
- W205 C-Class 4th gen, 2014 to 2021
- W206 C-Class 5th gen, 2021 on
- C208 CLK-Class coupe, 1997 to 2002
- C209 CLK-Class coupe 2nd gen, 2002 to 2009
- W210 E-Class 2nd gen, 1995 to 2002
- W211 E-Class 3rd gen, 2002 to 2009
- W212 E-Class 4th gen, 2009 to 2016
- W213 E-Class 5th gen, 2016 to 2023
- W214 E-Class 6th gen, 2023 on
- W220 S-Class 4th gen, 1998 to 2005
- W221 S-Class 5th gen, 2005 to 2013
- W222 S-Class 6th gen, 2013 to 2020
- W223 S-Class 7th gen, 2020 on
- C215 CL-Class or S-Class Coupe, 1999 to 2006
- C216 CL-Class 2nd gen, 2006 to 2014
- R230 SL-Class, 2001 to 2012
- R231 SL-Class 2nd gen, 2012 to 2022
- R232 SL-Class 3rd gen, 2022 on
- R170 SLK-Class 1st gen, 1996 to 2004
- R171 SLK-Class 2nd gen, 2004 to 2011
- R172 SLK, SLC-Class 3rd gen, 2011 to 2020
- W257 CLS, third generation, 2018 on. Officially C257
- X117 CLA Shooting Brake, 2015 to 2019
- H247 GLA-Class 2nd gen, 2020 on
- V177 A-Class saloon or sedan, 2018 on
- W177 A-Class hatchback 4th gen, 2018 on
- W163 M-Class 1st gen, 1997 to 2005
- W164 M-Class or ML 2nd gen, 2005 to 2011
- W166 GLE, M-Class 3rd gen, 2011 to 2019
- V167 GLE 4th gen, 2019 on
- X164 GL-Class 1st gen, 2006 to 2012
- X166 GLS 2nd gen, 2012 to 2019
- X167 GLS 3rd gen, 2019 on
- X253 GLC-Class 1st gen, 2015 to 2022
- X254 GLC-Class 2nd gen, 2022 on
- W460 G-Class, Geländewagen 1st gen, 1979 to 1991
- W463 G-Class, 1990 on. The 2018 on version is W463A
- V296 Listed for the EQE SUV, which is officially X294
- Z295 Listed for the EQE sedan, which is officially V295
- V297 EQS sedan, 2021 on
- Z296 Listed for the EQS SUV, which is officially X296
- 4JG VIN prefix: SUVs built in Alabama, M-Class, GLE, GL and GLS
- W115 Middle class sedan alongside the W114, 1968 to 1976
- C257 CLS, third generation, 2018 on
- X156 GLA, first generation, 2014 to 2020
- C117 CLA, first generation, 2013 to 2019
- C118 CLA, second generation, 2019 on
- W176 A-Class, third generation
- W246 B-Class, second generation
- W247 B-Class, third generation
- X247 GLB, 2019 on
- X204 GLK, 2008 to 2015
- C253 GLC Coupe, 2016 to 2023
- C292 GLE Coupe, 2015 to 2019
- C167 GLE Coupe, 2020 on
- W251 R-Class
- C219 CLS, first generation
- C218 CLS, second generation
- R197 SLS AMG
- C199 SLR McLaren
- C190 AMG GT, first generation
- C192 AMG GT, second generation
- X290 AMG GT 4-Door Coupe
- X294 EQE SUV
- V295 EQE sedan
- X296 EQS SUV
- X243 EQA
- X293 EQC
- W906 Sprinter, second generation
- W907 Sprinter, third generation
- W1K VIN prefix: Mercedes car, about 2020 on
- W1N VIN prefix: Mercedes SUV, about 2020 on
- WDD VIN prefix: Mercedes car, 2006 to about 2020
- WDB VIN prefix: older Mercedes cars
- WDC VIN prefix: Mercedes SUV built in Germany
- 55S VIN prefix: C-Class built in Alabama, 2015 to 2020
- W1W VIN prefix: Sprinter and vans
- W1Y VIN prefix: Sprinter cab chassis and trucks
Mercedes Features, AMG Names and Equipment Terms
The names you'll see on Mercedes window stickers and listings, from MBUX and AIRMATIC to 4MATIC+ and designo. They don't have a single code, so they're listed here by name.
Driver assistance names
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC Adaptive cruise control on newer models
- Active Steering Assist Keeps the car centred in its lane
- Active Lane Change Assist Changes lane on the driver's signal
- Active Speed Limit Assist Adjusts the set speed to speed limits
- Active Emergency Stop Assist Brings the car to a stop if the driver stops responding
- Active Brake Assist Automatic emergency braking
- Evasive Steering Assist Helps steer around an obstacle
- Route Based Speed Adaptation Slows for bends and junctions using map data
- Attention Assist Driver drowsiness warning
- PRE-SAFE Prepares the car and occupants for a crash
- PRE-SAFE PLUS Adds rear collision protection
- PRE-SAFE Impulse Side
- DISTRONIC PLUS Adaptive cruise on 2000s and early 2010s models
- PARKTRONIC Parking sensors
- Active Parking Assist Steers into parking spaces
- 360 degree camera Surround view parking camera
- Night View Assist
- Traffic Sign Assist
Mercedes technology names
- MBUX Mercedes-Benz User Experience, the infotainment system from 2018
- Hey Mercedes MBUX voice assistant
- COMAND Earlier navigation and infotainment system
- Mercedes me Mercedes app and connected services
- KEYLESS-GO Keyless entry and start
- Burmester Premium audio brand on many models
- Harman Kardon Premium audio on many 2000s and 2010s models
- AIRMATIC Air suspension
- Active Body Control Hydraulic active suspension
- E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL 48V active suspension on newer S-Class and GLE
- MULTIBEAM LED Adaptive LED headlamps
- DIGITAL LIGHT High resolution headlamps on newer models
- ENERGIZING Comfort program linking lights, music, seats and climate
- Ambient lighting
- Augmented reality navigation
- Head up display
- LINGUATRONIC Earlier voice control
- TELEAID Earlier emergency call system
Powertrain and drive names
- 4MATIC Mercedes all wheel drive
- EQ Boost 48V mild hybrid system on M254, M256 and M264 engines
- EQ Power Earlier plug in hybrid name
- Plug in hybrid Models like the C 350e, E 350e and GLC 350e
- AMG E Performance AMG plug in hybrid, like the C 63 S E Performance
- EQ 4MATIC All wheel drive on electric models
- Kompressor Supercharged engines, mostly 2000s
- BlueTEC Diesel emissions system using AdBlue
- BlueEFFICIENCY Mercedes efficiency badge
- BlueDIRECT Direct injection petrol engines
- CDI Common rail diesel
- 7G-DCT 7 speed dual clutch on compact models like the A 35
- 8G-DCT 8 speed dual clutch on the A 45 and CLA 45 from 2019
- AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7 speed dual clutch on the SLS and AMG GT
- AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT Multi clutch automatic on 63 models
- AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9 speed automatic on 53 models
- Rear wheel drive
- Front wheel drive A, B, CLA and GLA based models
- De Dion axle Rear axle design used on prewar Mercedes racing cars
AMG names
- AMG 35
- AMG 43
- AMG 45 S Higher output A 45 and CLA 45
- AMG 53
- AMG 63 S
- AMG 63 S E Performance
- AMG 65
- AMG GT S
- AMG GT R
- AMG GT C
- AMG GT Black Series The most extreme road going AMG GT
- AMG GT 4-Door Coupe
- AMG SL 43, 55 and 63
- AMG GLC 43 and 63
- AMG Line Styling package, not an AMG engine
- AMG Sport Package Earlier styling package
- AMG Night Package Gloss black exterior trim
- AMG Dynamic Plus Package Track focused suspension and engine mounts
- AMG Performance Exhaust
- AMG Panamericana grille Vertical slat grille on newer AMG models
- AMG TRACK PACE Lap timing and data app
- RACE mode
- Drift mode Rear drive mode on some 4MATIC+ AMG models
- SV Special version, used on limited editions
- SPEEDSHIFT AMG gearbox name
Paint names and finishes
- designo Mauritius Blue
- designo Mystic Brown
- designo Hyacinth Red
- designo Graphite Green
- designo Allanite Grey
- designo Crimson Red
- designo Orange
- designo Mocha Black
- designo Diamond White
- High-Tech Silver
- MANUFAKTUR Emerald Green
- MANUFAKTUR Patagonia Red
- Green Hell Magno
- designo Mercedes premium paint and leather program
- MANUFAKTUR Mercedes bespoke paint and interior program
- Magno Matte paint finish
- Metallic
- Non metallic Solid paint
Upholstery and interior names
- MB-Tex Mercedes synthetic leather, also called MB-Tex or MB-Lex
- ARTICO Mercedes man made leather
- DINAMICA Microfibre suede, often on AMG seats
- Nappa leather
- Semi aniline leather
- designo leather
- MANUFAKTUR leather
- Lotus Yellow leather
- Black and Beige two tone
- Black and Red AMG interior
- Neva Grey
- Sienna Brown
- Porcelain Light cream leather on upper models
- Macchiato Beige
- Silk Beige
- Saddle Brown
Plants
- Sindelfingen S-Class, E-Class and EQS
- Bremen C-Class and GLC
- Rastatt Compact cars
- Vance, Alabama GLE, GLS and EQ SUVs
- Kecskemet, Hungary Compact cars
Mercedes VIN Decoder FAQs
How do I check Mercedes options by VIN?
Ask a Mercedes dealer for the data card, which lists every SA code the car was built with, then paste the codes into our decoder. The original window sticker shows the packages by name.
Can I get a Mercedes build sheet by VIN for free?
Our decoder is free for the VIN and SA codes. For 2023 and newer US models, Mercedes-Benz USA shows vehicle information by VIN for free too.
What does SA code mean on a Mercedes?
Sonderausstattung codes, the three character codes Mercedes uses for every factory option and package. They're printed on the data card.
What is the P31 package on a Mercedes?
On the W204 C63 AMG, P31 is the AMG Development Package, with forged pistons and about 30 more horsepower. P30 is the AMG Performance Package. Package codes can be reused on other models, so check against your own data card.
Does a Mercedes VIN show the W chassis code?
On European and UK cars, yes. Characters 4 to 9 are the model number, like 205 for a W205 C-Class. US VINs use a coded descriptor instead, but our decoder works out the model from it.
How do I decode a UK Mercedes VIN?
Read characters 4 to 9 as the model number and character 11 as the plant. Character 10 is usually the steering side rather than the year, so check the build date on the door label.
What does 4MATIC mean?
Mercedes all wheel drive. 4MATIC+ is the AMG version that can send drive to the rear wheels only.
Which label shows the Mercedes paint code?
On the label in the driver door opening or under the hood. It's three digits, like 197 for Obsidian Black.
What is a Mercedes spec check?
Checking a car's real factory specification against what the seller says. Decode the VIN for the model and engine, then the SA codes for the options.
Dale Ogden
Dale has spent more than 20 years in vehicle valuations, forecasting and asset management. He was a Forecast Manager at CAP HPI, the UK's leading vehicle valuation authority and a counterpart to Kelley Blue Book.
He helped pioneer early electric vehicle depreciation models adopted by major manufacturers, and his residual value forecasts cover more than 10,000 vehicles. Today his data led insights help buyers, enthusiasts and automotive professionals around the world.
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