What is the ICCID code of a car?
3 Answers
ICCID is the integrated circuit card identification number of the SIM card built into the car's infotainment system for telematics functions, which needs to be queried at a 4S shop. Below is the relevant introduction: 1. Composition of ICCID: The vehicle ICCID consists of 20 digits, with the encoding format as follows: XXXXXX-0MFSS-YYGXX-XXXXX. The first six digits are the operator code, which is also the unique identification number of the IC card. ICCID is used by some software as a protective measure against piracy. During user registration, a unique identification code is generated based on the computer hardware and software information where the user's software is installed. This is generally referred to as the machine code, also known as the serial number, authentication code, registration code, etc. 2. SN code: SN code is the abbreviation for Serial-Number, sometimes also called SerialNo, which is the product serial number. The product serial number is a concept introduced to verify the "legal identity of the product," used to protect the user's genuine rights and enjoy legal services; a set of genuine products corresponds to only one product serial number. Aliases: machine code, authentication code, registration code, etc. The SN code can be found on the vehicle frame. The SN code is an identification code given by the software developer to the software, similar to a person's ID number, mainly to prevent the software from being pirated by users. Users must know the serial number to use the software.
I often chat with fellow car enthusiasts about little-known car facts. The car ICCID code is essentially the ID number of the built-in SIM card in the vehicle. Each card has a unique alphanumeric string, typically 19 or 20 digits long, specifically used to identify cellular network connections. Think about it—many modern cars come with built-in SIM cards that support features like in-car Wi-Fi hotspots, remote start, or emergency call services. This ICCID is hidden in the background of the dashboard or navigation system, invisible but crucial. If there’s a malfunction or you need to activate a service, repair shops often ask for this code to pair the network. Once, I helped my neighbor locate it in his SUV—it took a while to find it in the mobile connection settings under the setup menu. Without it, the car’s internet connection won’t work for real-time map updates or music streaming, which can be quite a hassle. But if you’re on a long trip, this little thing can be a lifesaver. I recommend asking your technician to check it during routine maintenance to avoid losing connectivity at critical moments.
Last time my car had a network issue, I spent ages troubleshooting only to find out it was about the ICCID code—that unique serial number for the embedded SIM card in the car, essentially a tracking ID that, like a phone SIM, connects to 4G or 5G services. I’ve searched for it myself in BMW models: open the ‘Connection Settings’ on the infotainment screen, tap into ‘Mobile Data,’ and you’ll see the long string of digits. Without it, the car can’t send or receive data automatically—like remote engine diagnostics, navigation updates, or sharing a Wi-Fi hotspot with friends. Car manufacturers designed this for convenience, but forgetting it can lead to wasted data charges (I learned the hard way). Best to jot it down in a notebook or snap a photo on your phone for quick fixes—don’t wait until the signal cuts out to scramble for it.
