VW Beetle M-Code Decoder

Metal fabrication at Washburn's Metal in Orange, CA
VW Beetle M-Code Decoder

What's on your M-plate?decode the factory option codes.

Every Beetle left the factory with a run of M-codes stamped on its ID plate, recording everything from engine spec to export market. Enter the codes from your plate and we'll tell you what each one means.

Working on a Bus instead? Try the Bus M-Code Decoder. Need your model year? Try the Chassis Number Decoder.
1 Pick your Beetle's era
2 Enter your M-codes
Enter the M-codes stamped on your plate, separated by commas or spaces.
How it works

How to read an M-plate.

Where to look
The ID plate

On most Beetles, the plate is riveted to the front firewall in the trunk/frunk, usually visible above the spare tire once you pop the lid. On some model years it's on the driver-side door jamb instead.

One code, several eras
Why some codes repeat

VW reused M-code numbers across the Beetle's 40+ year production run. Where a code meant different things in different years, we show every documented meaning we found so you can match it to your car.

What else is on it
Beyond the M-codes

The same plate also carries the chassis number, engine number, and a paint/upholstery code string. This tool decodes the M-code options list only.

A quick note on accuracy. This list is compiled and cross-checked from the classic-VW reference archives (TheSamba) and covers the best-documented Beetle M-codes. Codes with no reliably documented meaning are left out rather than guessed at, and some codes have more than one meaning depending on model year - we show all documented options where that's the case. Bus, Karmann Ghia, and Type 3 plates use a related but separately-documented code set. When it matters - originality, a build sheet, a restoration - give the shop a call and we'll help you cross-check it by hand.

Know your options. Get the right parts.

Once you know what your Beetle rolled off the line with, our vehicle pages have everything that fits - German OE, quality repro, and the parts we make in-house.

Shop Beetle parts Decode your chassis number