The world manufacturer identifier occupies the first three characters of the VIN. The first indicates the country or region of assembly, the second the manufacturer, and the third the vehicle type or division.
The codes are assigned internationally, so a vehicle assembled in one country by a manufacturer headquartered in another carries the code of the assembly location. This is why two apparently identical models can begin with different letters.
Manufacturers producing fewer than a set number of vehicles a year share a common identifier, with additional characters later in the VIN distinguishing them.
Why it matters
The WMI tells you where a vehicle was actually built, which affects parts availability, specification and sometimes whether it was ever intended for your market.
How to check it
A decoder expands the WMI automatically. If the result does not match the badge on the car, ask why.
Does this apply to the car you are looking at?
Run the VIN or plate and see what is actually on record.
Related terms
Definitions are general guidance, not legal advice. Title rules, total loss thresholds and inspection requirements are set by each state and change over time, so confirm the position with the motor vehicle agency for the state the vehicle is titled in before relying on it.