ToolviaAudi VIN decoder
An Audi VIN usually starts with WAU, which covers most cars and many SUVs. Larger SUVs often start with WA1, and the high-performance RS models and the R8 use WUA, the code for Audi’s performance division.
Enter an Audi VIN to see the model, engine, drive type and plant, plus recalls and owner complaints for that model year.
Audi manufacturer codes (WMI)
The first three characters of a Audi 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 |
|---|---|
WAU | Audi cars and many SUVs built in Germany |
WA1 | Audi SUVs (Q5, Q7, Q8 and others) |
WUA | Audi Sport models (RS and R8) |
TRU | Audi models built in Hungary |
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 Audi VIN
Spot a genuine RS model
Most RS and R8 models carry the WUA code. A car with an RS-style body kit but a WAU VIN is probably a regular model with styling upgrades, so it’s worth checking before you pay RS money.
Find the option sticker
Audi and Volkswagen put a vehicle data sticker in the spare-wheel well or in the service book. It lists the three-character PR codes for the factory options, which the VIN alone doesn’t include.
quattro and drive type
Whether a car has quattro all-wheel drive shows up in the decoded drive type. That’s useful because some models were sold with both front-wheel drive and quattro.
Before you buy a used Audi: what to check with the VIN
Once you’ve decoded the VIN, these are the Audi-specific things worth comparing against the listing.
quattro or front-wheel drive?
Several Audi models were sold both ways. The Drive type row shows whether this car has quattro.
Real RS or styling package?
RS models and the R8 generally carry the WUA code. An S line package adds the look, not the engine, so check the VIN before paying RS prices.
Find the PR code sticker
Look in the spare-wheel well or the service book for the vehicle data sticker. Its PR codes confirm the factory options and packages.
Where to find the VIN on a Audi
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
What does WUA mean on an Audi VIN?
WUA is the code used for Audi Sport models, including most RS models and the R8.
How do I check if an Audi has quattro?
Decode the VIN above and look at the Drive type row in the report.
Where are Audi option codes listed?
On the vehicle data sticker, usually in the spare-wheel well or in the service book. They are PR codes, not part of the VIN.
Audi is a trademark of its owner. Toolvia is an independent site and isn’t affiliated with Audi. Decoded details come from data the manufacturer reports to NHTSA.