Where is the VIN number located on a BMW 5 Series?

[Lynn]

BMW 5 Series VIN number can be found in the engine compartment, on the left side of the dashboard, or at the lower left corner of the windshield. The most reliable locations to check are the vehicle registration certificate or insurance policy. The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is the unique identifier assigned to each vehicle upon production, essentially serving as the car's "ID number." It remains unique and will not be duplicated for 30 years. The VIN system first appeared in 1949 and has undergone multiple standard updates. Today's VIN standard is globally unified, consisting of a 17-digit identification code. This VIN number is also an important way to distinguish between new and used cars.

[VanGrant]

I used to drive a BMW 5 Series, and there are a few things to watch out for when locating the VIN. The main spot is the lower left corner of the windshield—from the driver's seat, you can see a rectangular sticker with a 17-digit alphanumeric combination called the VIN. If it's not obvious, pop the hood. There’s usually a metal plate engraved with the VIN near the front of the engine bay, either above the firewall or around the radiator frame. Also, don’t forget to check the inner frame of the left-side door or the edges of the rear seat footrests, as labels are often placed there too. The VIN is essential for insurance claims or repairs, and it’s common for the sticker to wear out, so I’d recommend keeping a backup—check the owner’s manual and a copy of the vehicle registration to avoid forgetting it when you’re out. The first time might take some squinting, but you’ll get used to it after a few tries.

[LouisMarie]

When buying a used car, I always check the BMW 5 Series VIN location. The sticker at the bottom of the windshield is the most common but also easily faked. Experience tells me to double-check the metal plate in the engine bay, located at the front or near the firewall. Some owners overlook the vehicle information label on the B-pillar, which also has the genuine VIN recorded. After finding it, be sure to verify with an online report to avoid buying a wrecked car. These small details can save big money. Take photos during routine maintenance for easy reference next time.

[LeGideon]

For decades, driving various generations of BMW, especially the 5 Series, the vehicle identification number (VIN) is quite simple to locate. It's usually found on a white label clearly visible at the bottom corner of the windshield on the driver's side. Sometimes, a small plate on the inner door frame also displays it. Remember, older cars had it in less consistent locations, but now it's standardized. This number is frequently used for registration and maintenance, so developing a habit of jotting it down in a notebook for future reference is helpful. Don't overcomplicate it—just bend down and take a quick look, and you're done.