BMW S481A — Sports seats
More heavily bolstered front sports seats.
Quick answer
S481A is BMW's factory option code for sports seats. More heavily bolstered front sports seats.
Should you care about Sports seats?
Better support on a long drive and a desirability boost, particularly when paired with the M Sport package.
How to tell if a BMW has S481A
- Look for
S481Aor just481on the original build sheet or window sticker. - Check the options list in the AutoTrader, eBay or dealer listing.
- Decode it from the VIN with our free BMW VIN decoder, then confirm the fitted codes in a full report.
- Where relevant, verify it physically on the car during the viewing, as described above.
Bimmer.AI is designed to help you identify BMW-specific buyer risks before you travel, negotiate, or pay for an inspection. It does not replace a physical inspection by a qualified mechanic, a legal vehicle-history check (e.g. HPI Check), or independent verification of finance, stolen, or write-off status. Repair-cost ranges are indicative UK figures that vary by region, specialist, parts supply, and labour rates.
Decode this car's full factory spec
Bimmer.AI takes the VIN and option codes and returns the decoded equipment list alongside the MOT history, known faults and a buyer verdict.
Run a Bimmer.AI report →Frequently asked questions
What does BMW option code S481A mean?
More heavily bolstered front sports seats. It sits in the seats group of BMW's factory options.
Is Sports seats worth having on a used BMW?
Better support on a long drive and a desirability boost, particularly when paired with the M Sport package.
How do I check if a BMW has S481A?
Look for S481A (or just 481) on the car's build sheet or in the listing's options, or decode it from the VIN. You can enter the VIN and option codes into a Bimmer.AI report to see the full decoded factory spec alongside the MOT history and known faults.