Where is the VIN number in Ford S-MAX (I) [2006-2015]?

This guide shows where to find the VIN/chassis number on the Ford S-MAX (1st gen) produced between 2006 and 2015, including the easy visible VIN and the hidden stamped chassis VIN.

Chassis Number Locations

Windshield (Visible VIN)

• Where to look: From outside the car, look through the lower corner of the windshield (typically driver’s side) at the VIN plate sitting in the dashboard recess against the glass.
• Access: Easy access, but glare/reflections can wash out the characters; sometimes the wiper position partially blocks the view.
• Note: No LHD/RHD change is usually needed here—this is the standard “visible VIN” spot used for quick checks.
• Tip: If reflections make you misread characters, use your phone to scan it directly with the VIN reader so you capture the string instantly without transcription errors.

B-Pillar (Production Label)

• Where to look: Open the front passenger door and check the B-pillar lower area near the door latch/striker for a black or white VIN/production sticker (often includes weights and paint codes).
• Access: Straightforward—clean, vertical surface; only tricky if the sticker is scuffed (seatbelt slap) or weathered.
• Note: If a door has been replaced or repainted, compare this sticker VIN with the other VIN locations.
• Tip: For a fast, accurate read (especially if the label is worn), capture it with your phone so OCR can pull the VIN without you squinting at faded print.

Floor (Chassis Stamped VIN)

• Where to look: Check the front footwell floor where the stamp is in the right-side floorpan. On many LHD S-MAX vehicles this is commonly on the passenger side, but check the driver-side footwell if you don’t find it there.
• Access: Locate the rectangular pre-cut flap in the carpet/trim parallel to the door sill, then lift the carpet/plastic flap to expose the VIN stamped into the metal underneath.
• Note: This area is often very dark and collects dust/grit from shoes; the stamping can be low-contrast because it’s body-colored.
• Tip: Hold the flap open and use Flashlight + OCR on the scanner to read the stamp in the shadowed recess without crawling around trying to write it down.

OBD Port (Diagnostic)

• Where to look: Driver’s side dash area—inside the small storage compartment/cubby by the left knee (LHD). The OBD port is behind an inner cover/clip inside that compartment.
• Access: Open the compartment, then locate the small black plastic cover/clip inside and squeeze/pry it to reveal the OBD port behind it (it’s hidden behind two layers).
• Note: Many generic lists say “under the steering wheel,” but on this S-MAX it’s specifically inside the storage drawer, then behind the inner cover.
• Tip: Because it’s awkward to reach and see, scan the VIN elsewhere first (windshield/label/floor) so you’re not fighting the compartment just to confirm identity.

Video Guide

Video Tutorial: 2009 S-MAX OBD/VIN (hidden cubby location)

• Shows opening the driver’s side cubby and removing the false back/cover to reveal the OBD port on a 2009 S-MAX.

Video Tutorial: 2012 S-MAX OBD (facelift confirmation)

• Quick demonstration confirming the OBD port remains behind the storage compartment on the 2012 facelift model.

Common Problems & Troubleshooting

• Windshield VIN glare: Bright sun and glass reflections can hide characters—change your angle or shade the plate with your hand before scanning.
• Floor VIN hard to read: The flap creates deep shadow and the stamp gets dusty—vacuum/scrub lightly, then use a flashlight to bring out the stamping.
• Sticker validity warning: A B-pillar label can be missing or replaced after bodywork—always cross-check the VIN against the windshield and the stamped chassis VIN before buying.

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