Where is the VIN number in Audi Q5 (Audi Q5 III (GU) [2021-2021])?

This guide covers where to find the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the Audi Q5 (Audi Q5 III (GU) [2021-2021]) produced between 2021–2021, including the quickest scan points and the chassis-stamped backup locations.

Chassis Number Locations

Driver’s Door Pillar (B-Pillar Sticker)

• Where to look: Open the driver’s door and locate the certification label on the driver’s side B-pillar, positioned low in the door jamb. The VIN is printed clearly above the barcode.
• Access: Very easy access and high contrast print, but because it sits low it can be dirty/scuffed from shoes and road grime—wipe it clean first.
• Note: On LHD vehicles, this is on the left side of the car (driver’s side).
• Tip: If the label is dusty or partially scuffed, wipe it and then scan it directly with the free VIN reader so you don’t misread similar characters like B/8 or S/5.

Engine Bay (Strut Tower)

• Where to look: Pop the hood and check the left-side strut tower (this is typically the passenger side on LHD cars). The VIN is stamped directly into the metal bodywork, slightly recessed below nearby plastic trim.
• Access: The stamp is usually strong and OCR-friendly, but the viewing angle is deep and engine bay shadows/cables can hide parts of the characters—use a light and adjust your angle.
• Note: “Left” means the vehicle’s left when facing forward (direction of travel), not your left while standing in front of the car.
• Tip: Because shadows are the main issue, use your phone light and capture it with ScanVin.app so the app can read the stamped characters without you leaning over and guessing.

Windshield (Dashboard VIN Plate)

• Where to look: From outside the car, look through the lower corner of the windshield on the driver’s side. The VIN plate sits on the dashboard and is meant to be visible through the glass.
• Access: Fastest to check, but glare/reflections and windshield dirt can make it hard to read accurately—move your body/phone to change the reflection angle.
• Note: On LHD vehicles, the windshield VIN plate is typically on the left (driver’s) side.
• Tip: If the sun is washing it out, use the phone scanner to grab the VIN instantly instead of manually transcribing characters through reflections.

Infotainment System (MMI VIN Display)

• Where to look: In the MMI infotainment settings, the VIN may appear under menus like System Maintenance or Version/Vehicle Information.
• Access: Requires ignition on and menu navigation; it’s convenient for cross-checking but it’s not a physical chassis marking.
• Note: Use this to compare against the physical VIN locations (windshield, B-pillar, engine bay stamp).
• Tip: If you’re comparing VINs during a purchase, scan the physical VIN with ScanVin.app and match it to the MMI readout to spot mismatches quickly.

Video Guide

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

▶ Watch Audi Q5 VIN Location Guide

• A clear walkthrough showing the engine bay stamped VIN, the windshield VIN plate, the driver door jamb (B-pillar) sticker, and a mention of the MMI VIN display.

Common Problems & Troubleshooting

• Windshield glare/reflections: If the VIN plate is reflecting the sky/sun, change your viewing angle, shade it with your body, or scan from a slight offset instead of straight-on.
• Engine bay shadows hiding the stamp: Use a flashlight and look from a lower angle so the stamped characters cast contrast shadows.
• Sticker validity warning: The B-pillar label can be replaced (accident repair/door swap). Always cross-check the sticker VIN against the windshield plate and the stamped engine-bay VIN before buying.

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