Where is the VIN located on an Audi?
4 Answers
Audi's VIN is located at the bottom left of the front windshield. The VIN, short for Vehicle Identification Number, is a unique 17-character alphanumeric code used to identify a vehicle's manufacturer, engine, chassis number, and other specifications. In the 17-digit VIN code, the first 3 characters represent the country of manufacture, manufacturer, and vehicle type. Characters 4-8 indicate vehicle features such as model, engine type, and body style. The 9th character is a check digit to verify VIN accuracy. The 10th character denotes the production year, while the 11th indicates the assembly plant (typically represented by 0). Characters 12-17 represent the production sequence number. Common installation locations: The VIN is typically found in the lower left corner of the front windshield, or on the driver's side door hinge pillar, door lock post, or door edge - usually in prominent locations. Some vehicles may have it in the engine compartment or on the inner door panel near the driver's seat. In China, most passenger car VINs can be found on the left side of the dashboard or below the windshield.
I noticed that the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of Audi cars is usually located at the lower left corner of the front windshield, and you can clearly see that 17-digit alphanumeric combination by squatting down. Last time when I helped a friend check a used car, I specifically verified it—the same VIN is also engraved on the metal plate in the engine compartment, typically positioned on a bracket near the firewall. The stamped VIN in the spare tire well of the trunk is more hidden, requiring removal of the mat to locate it. I recommend taking a photo of the VIN with your phone and saving it for future reference. This is especially convenient when visiting the dealership for maintenance or handling insurance claims, as staff can quickly scan it to access the complete service records.
My five-year experience with Audi has taught me that there are at least five locations to find the VIN. The most visible one is below the windshield, laser-etched near the wiper base, remaining clear even in rain or snow. Upon opening the passenger door, the second line on the white label attached to the B-pillar displays the full VIN. Some wagon models also have a waterproof label on the sidewall of the trunk. Those who've replaced the battery might have noticed the stamped VIN in the engine bay, near the coolant reservoir. During vehicle registration, the DMV also records a rubbing from the chassis rail, though this requires a lift to access.
When I bought a new Audi, the salesperson showed me the location of the VIN. It's visible at the lower left corner of the windshield without opening any parts. During the first maintenance, the technician pointed out that there's also a VIN plate on the top of the front shock absorber tower, which is clearer than the one on the glass. My advice is to avoid using a high-pressure water gun directly on these areas when washing the car, as the plates on older cars can oxidize and become blurry. Additionally, I noticed that the VIN is printed on the third page of the vehicle's green book, which can be used in an emergency if you forget to bring the registration for the annual inspection.
