BMW Option Codes (SA Codes), Explained
Every factory option on a BMW is recorded as an SA code. Here is a plain-English, buyer-focused list of the 32 codes UK used buyers ask about most, and whether each one actually adds value. Start from the VIN with our free VIN decoder.
The short version
Option codes tell you exactly how a car was specced from the factory, which is often more than the badge or even the seller knows. The ones worth caring about: S337A (M Sport), S610A (head-up display), S609A (professional nav), S494A (heated seats) and S524A (adaptive headlights). Click any code below for what it is and what to check.
Packages & trim
Factory bundles that change how a car is specced and valued.
| Code | Option | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| S337A | M Sport package | The M Sport trim: sportier bumpers, M badging, sports seats, firmer suspension and larger alloy wheels. |
Drivetrain
Gearbox and driveline options.
| Code | Option | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| S205A | Automatic transmission (Steptronic) | Torque-converter automatic gearbox (the ZF 8HP on most modern BMWs). |
Seats
Seat type, adjustment and heating.
| Code | Option | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| S459A | Electric seat adjustment with memory | Electrically adjustable front seats that remember driver positions. |
| S464A | Ski bag | A load-through ski bag in the rear seat for long, narrow items. |
| S481A | Sports seats | More heavily bolstered front sports seats. |
| S488A | Lumbar support | Adjustable lumbar support for the front seats. |
| S494A | Heated front seats | Front seat heating. |
Comfort & convenience
Everyday convenience and interior options.
| Code | Option | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| S316A | Automatic tailgate operation | A powered, electric tailgate (Touring estates and SAVs). |
| S322A | Comfort Access (keyless entry) | Keyless entry and start: the doors unlock from the handle without touching the fob. |
| S403A | Glass sunroof, electric | An electric tilt-and-slide glass sunroof. |
| S415A | Rear sunblind | A powered roller blind for the rear window. |
| S423A | Floor mats, velour | Genuine BMW velour floor mats. |
| S441A | Smoker's package | Ashtray and cigarette-lighter fitment (historically a delete-or-add option). |
| S465A | Through-loading system | A folding rear centre hatch for carrying long loads. |
| S493A | Storage package | Extra cubbies, nets, hooks and 12V sockets around the cabin. |
Climate
Air-conditioning and climate control.
| Code | Option | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| S534A | Automatic air conditioning | Climate control with automatic temperature regulation. |
Driver assistance
Parking, cruise and sensor options.
| Code | Option | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| S508A | Park Distance Control, rear | Rear parking sensors. |
| S521A | Rain sensor | Automatic rain-sensing wipers (usually bundled with auto headlights and an auto-dimming mirror). |
| S540A | Cruise control | Standard (non-adaptive) cruise control. |
| S544A | Cruise control with braking function | Cruise control that can also brake, a step toward active cruise. |
Lighting
Headlight technology and cabin lighting.
| Code | Option | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| S522A | Xenon headlights | HID xenon headlamps, far brighter than halogen. |
| S524A | Adaptive headlights | Steering-responsive cornering headlights that swivel into bends. |
| S563A | Light package | Upgraded interior, ambient and reading lights. |
Infotainment
Screens, navigation, audio and connectivity.
| Code | Option | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| S601A | On-board monitor (iDrive display) | The central iDrive display screen. |
| S606A | Navigation system Business | The entry factory satellite-navigation tier with the smaller screen. |
| S609A | Navigation system Professional | The full-fat factory navigation: larger screen, faster iDrive, usually a better stereo. |
| S610A | Head-up display | Projects speed and navigation onto the windscreen in the driver's line of sight. |
| S633A | Mobile phone preparation with Bluetooth | Factory Bluetooth phone integration. |
| S650A | CD changer | A multi-disc CD changer. |
| S672A | HiFi loudspeaker system | An uprated (non-premium-brand) speaker and amplifier setup. |
Safety & security
Alarm and safety-equipment options.
| Code | Option | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| S302A | Alarm system | Factory anti-theft alarm with interior movement sensing. |
| S428A | Warning triangle and first-aid kit | Factory warning triangle and first-aid kit. |
Option-code meanings are decoded for general buyer information and are not affiliated with BMW AG. Codes and their meanings vary by model, market and year; always confirm equipment physically on the car.
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Get your report →Frequently asked questions
What are BMW option codes?
Option codes (called SA codes, from the German Sonderausstattung, meaning special equipment) are the codes BMW uses to record every factory-fitted option on a car, from the M Sport package to heated seats. They are stored against the VIN in BMW's build data and often printed on a build sheet.
Where do I find my BMW's option codes?
They can appear on the original build sheet or window sticker, in some sellers' listings, and can be looked up from the VIN through BMW build-data services. On many cars a short list is also visible in the iDrive service menus. Once you have the codes, this cluster decodes what each one means.
Do option codes affect a used BMW's value?
Some do, a lot. The M Sport package, head-up display, professional navigation, heated seats, adaptive headlights and a good sound system all move resale value and demand. Others, like a CD changer or a smoker's package, are irrelevant today. Each code page below says whether it matters.
Are these all the BMW option codes?
No. BMW has thousands of option codes across decades of models. This is a curated, growing list of the codes UK used buyers most often ask about, written in plain English. We add to it over time.