Where is the VIN number in Audi Q5 (Q5 II (FY) [2018-2021])?

This guide covers all confirmed VIN (chassis number) locations for the Audi Q5 II (FY) produced between 2018 and 2021, so you can verify the vehicle identity before registration, service, or purchase.

Chassis Number Locations

Engine Bay – Left Front Strut Tower (Chassis Stamping)

• Where to look: Open the hood and go to the left front strut tower / suspension turret. The VIN is stamped directly into the metal immediately beside the red positive (+) battery jump terminal (you’ll see heavy battery/jump cables in the same area).
• Access: Visibility is generally good, but the letters can be hard to read because the stamping is painted the same color as the body. Cables run above it, and a plastic trim/cowling may slightly overhang the edge—wipe dust off and shine a light across it.
• Note: On RHD markets, the cabin VIN and door sticker move sides, but this engine-bay stamping is typically still on the left strut tower.
• Tip: If the stamped characters look “flat” due to body-color paint, use the app’s high-contrast capture—scan the stamped VIN with your phone while aiming your flashlight at an angle to create shadows in the stamp.

Lower Windshield – Dashboard VIN Plate (Visible VIN)

• Where to look: From outside the vehicle, look through the lower corner of the windshield on the driver’s side (LHD). The VIN is displayed on a tag embedded in the dashboard trim.
• Access: Easy to reach, but you’ll often fight windshield glare/reflections. A dirty windshield can also distort the characters.
• Note: For RHD vehicles, this visible VIN shifts to the right side of the windshield.
• Tip: If reflections make you misread 8/B or 5/S, capture the windshield VIN instantly to avoid transcription mistakes and double-entry errors.

Driver’s Door Jamb – B-Pillar Manufacturer Label (Sticker)

• Where to look: Open the driver’s door (LHD) and check the left B-pillar down low, below the door striker, near the rocker panel. You’re looking for a silver/black manufacturer label with VIN text and a barcode.
• Access: It sits very low, so you’ll need to crouch. Because it’s in a high-traffic entry area, it can be scuffed, torn, or peeling—clean gently, don’t scrub aggressively.
• Note: On RHD models, this label is typically on the right-side door jamb.
• Tip: Since it’s awkward to read while crouched, scan the sticker barcode/VIN so you don’t have to write it down in an uncomfortable position.

MMI / Infotainment – Digital VIN (Verification)

• Where to look: In the MMI infotainment system, navigate to Settings > General > Version Information (or a similar “system maintenance/version” menu depending on software).
• Access: Requires the vehicle to have power (key on / ignition on). Screen refresh and glare can make camera scanning unreliable.
• Note: Treat this as a verification reference, not your primary physical identifier.
• Tip: If you’re cross-checking numbers during a purchase, scan the physical VIN first (stamping or sticker) and then compare it to the MMI display.

Video Guide

Video Tutorial: AUDI SQ5 II (2017-2020) – VIN Number Location

▶ Watch Audi Q5 VIN Location Guide

• A complete walkthrough showing the engine-bay VIN stamping, windshield VIN, driver door-jamb sticker, and where to find VIN info in the MMI.

Video Tutorial: Audi Q5 2018 engine and chassis number

▶ Watch Audi Q5 VIN Location Guide

• Clear daylight view of the strut-tower VIN stamping and a demonstration of the engine serial number (which is not the VIN).

Common Problems & Troubleshooting

• Stamped VIN is hard to read in the engine bay: The stamping is often body-colored and low contrast; wipe the area and use oblique flashlight lighting so shadows form inside the characters.
• Windshield VIN reflections: Bright sun or overhead lights cause glare—change your viewing angle, shade the area with your hand, and clean the glass.
• Door-jamb label issues: If the B-pillar sticker is missing/damaged, don’t rely on it alone—verify against the engine-bay stamping and visible windshield VIN (stickers can be replaced).

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