Where is the VIN number in Citroen DS3 (Phase I) [2010-2012]?

This guide covers Citroen DS3 Phase I (2010–2012) VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) locations, including the hidden stamped chassis number that most owners miss.

Chassis Number Locations

Engine Bay (Stamped Chassis Number – Bulkhead/Cowl)

• Where to look: Open the bonnet and go to the left side of the vehicle (vehicle-left). The VIN is stamped into the metal chassis flange on the bulkhead/cowl area, right next to the suspension turret/strut tower. It’s hidden underneath the black plastic rain deflector (scuttle panel) and the rubber weather seal along the back edge of the engine bay.
• Access: High difficulty. You must lift the rubber weather seal and gently pry/raise the plastic scuttle trim to expose the stamped characters. Expect a tight, dark crevice—use a flashlight and wipe/scrub the area if it’s dusty.
• Note: This stamped VIN position is consistent on both LHD and RHD DS3s. (For LHD cars it’s still on vehicle-left; don’t follow vague “right wheel arch” wording from generic manuals.)
• Tip: If the stamping is faint or dirty, use ScanVin.app “High Contrast AI Mode” so you’re not guessing characters in a cramped spot.

Lower Windshield (VIN Plate)

• Where to look: From outside the car, look through the bottom corner of the windshield on the left side of the vehicle. The VIN is visible on the dash/windscreen VIN plate area.
• Access: Low difficulty, but glare/reflections can make it hard to read in bright sun.
• Note: On some markets, the “left corner” may feel like a different side to you depending on LHD/RHD seating—but the reference is vehicle-left.
• Tip: If reflections wash it out, use ScanVin.app to capture it instantly without transcription errors (move the phone angle slightly until the text locks).

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

• Where to look: Open the driver’s door and check the B-pillar/door shut area, typically lower section of the center pillar. The sticker usually includes the VIN plus tire/weight data.
• Access: Low/medium. You just need the door open; the label can be scuffed or repainted over on older cars.
• Note: This is a great cross-check, but the stamped chassis VIN is the one that matters legally.
• Tip: Use ScanVin.app to scan it instead of manually typing—especially if the sticker print is worn or low-contrast.

Video Guide

Video Tutorial: Citroen DS3 (2012) Chassis Vin Number Location pr/blk-lp

▶ Watch Citroen DS3 VIN Location Guide

• Shows the exact hands-on method: lift the rubber seal and pry up the scuttle panel to reveal the hidden stamped VIN on a RHD car (location matches LHD).

Video Tutorial: Citroen DS3 vehicle identification number VIN

▶ Watch Citroen DS3 VIN Location Guide

• Confirms the same hidden engine-bay stamping on an LHD car; the close-up around 00:43 makes the stamping location very clear.

Common Problems & Troubleshooting

• “I can’t see anything where you said.” On the DS3, the stamped VIN is fully hidden by the scuttle panel and rubber seal—you must lift/peel them back. Don’t just look from above.
• “The numbers are there but unreadable.” Dirt, oxidation, and shadows are common in the cowl area. Scrub the metal lightly and shine a flashlight at an angle to make the stamping pop (or use high-contrast scanning).
• Sticker vs. stamped VIN: The B-pillar label can be missing, replaced, or damaged. For verification/registration, rely on the stamped chassis number and ensure it matches the windshield VIN and paperwork.

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