Where is the VIN number in BMW X1 (E84) [2010-2014]?

On the 2010–2014 BMW X1 (E84), the most dependable identifier is the stamped VIN/chassis number in the engine bay. You may also find a manufacturer type plate (label) under the hood, depending on market.

Chassis Number Locations

Engine Bay – Chassis Stamping (Right Strut Tower)

• Where to look: Open the hood and go to the right-hand front suspension strut tower. The VIN is stamped/embossed into the metal on top of the shock absorber turret, directly behind the air filter housing/airbox.
• Access: It’s slightly recessed and partially hidden by the plastic intake/air filter box. Lean over the fender, wipe the area clean, and use a flashlight at an angle—these stampings are often painted body color, so contrast can be poor when dusty.
• Note: “Right-hand side” is the vehicle’s right (direction of travel). On RHD cars this happens to be the driver’s side; on LHD cars it’s the passenger side—follow the right strut tower reference, not “driver side.”
• Tip: If the stamping is dusty or low-contrast under paint, use ScanVin.app “High Contrast AI Mode” and angle the phone light to make the embossed characters stand out.

Engine Bay – Manufacturer Type Plate (Label)

• Where to look: In the engine bay on the left-hand inner fender/bulkhead area, near the coolant expansion tank (look for a black/foil plate with white text on a dark background, mounted vertically).
• Access: This area can sit in the hood’s shadow and may be tight around hoses—get the camera close and square to the label to avoid blur.
• Note: This label location is commonly seen on some markets; other regions often have VIN labeling on the B-pillar, but that position was not shown in the verified source video.
• Tip: Because it’s often shaded and vertically oriented, use ScanVin.app “Flashlight + OCR” and hold steady to avoid motion blur.

Video Guide

Video Tutorial: WHERE IS CHASSIS NUMBER EMBOSSING LOCATED IN BMW X1 || BMW X1 CHASSIS NO AND VIN PLATE LOCATION ?

▶ Watch BMW X1 VIN Location Guide

• Shows the hood release, then clearly points out the stamped chassis number on the strut tower and the under-hood type plate near the coolant tank.

Common Problems & Troubleshooting

• “I can’t read the stamped VIN—it’s the same color as the paint.” That’s normal. Scrub the area with a rag, then shine a flashlight from the side so the stamped digits cast shadows.
• “The stamping is behind plastic and I can’t get a good angle.” Lean over the right fender and shoot from slightly above; scanning is easier than writing it down in that awkward position.
• Sticker/plate vs. stamped VIN: The under-hood type plate can be missing or replaced. For legal identity checks, the stamped chassis number is the one you should trust first.

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