Where is the VIN number in Hyundai Santa Fe (Santa Fe III (DM) [2013-2013])?

This guide covers the VIN (chassis number) locations on the Hyundai Santa Fe III (DM) produced between 2013–2013, including the easy-to-check label locations and the hard-to-fake stamped chassis number.

Chassis Number Locations

Dashboard / Windshield

• Where to look: From outside the vehicle, look through the lower corner of the windshield on the left (driver’s) side. The VIN is on a metal plate set into the dashboard where it meets the glass.
• Access: Low difficulty. No tools needed, but glare/reflections on the windshield can hide characters.
• Note: For RHD markets, the windshield VIN typically shifts to the other side of the car, so check the opposite lower corner if you don’t see it.
• Tip: If glare is washing out the digits, scan it instantly with your phone camera so you don’t misread similar characters like 8/B or 5/S.

Driver’s Door Pillar (B-Pillar)

• Where to look: Open the driver’s door and inspect the lower section of the B-pillar/body frame. You’re looking for a black Vehicle Certification label/sticker showing the VIN plus production/tire info.
• Access: Low difficulty. Just open the door; wipe the label if it’s dusty or worn from use.
• Note: This is one of the best “daily” VIN checks because it’s clear and easy to photograph.
• Tip: For fast, accurate capture (especially if the sticker is slightly faded), use the free VIN reader to scan the label instead of typing it out.

Driver’s Door Edge (Bonus Location)

• Where to look: Check the vertical edge of the driver’s door shell (the door itself, not the body frame). There may be a small white anti-theft VIN sticker.
• Access: Medium difficulty. This sticker is often missing after repainting/door replacement and can be damaged by seatbelt strikes.
• Note: Treat this as a backup only—door stickers are easier to remove/replace than stamped numbers.
• Tip: Because you’ll be leaning into the door opening and the sticker can be partly torn, capture it with a quick scan to avoid transcription mistakes.

Passenger Floor (Stamped Chassis Number)

• Where to look: Under the front right seat. Slide the seat fully backward, then lift the pre-cut carpet flap / ducting cover to reveal the VIN stamped into the metal cross-member.
• Access: High difficulty. You’ll be working low to the floor; it’s commonly dark, dusty, and the stamping can be dirty.
• Note (critical): This stamped chassis number is typically on the front footwell floor (commonly passenger side for LHD vehicles, but check the driver side footwell if not found).
• Tip: Use a flashlight and then scan using Flashlight + OCR so you don’t have to write the characters down while crouched in an awkward position.

Engine Bay / Firewall (Secondary)

• Where to look: Check the firewall/bulkhead area and nearby supports for a stamped number or a metal ID plate (location varies). It may be offset from center and partially hidden by hoses/covers.
• Access: High difficulty. Expect grime, tight access, and obstructing components—cleaning may be required to read it.
• Note: Use this as a cross-check when inspecting for tampering or paperwork mismatches.
• Tip: If the characters are dirty or faint, lightly clean the area and use High Contrast AI Mode to decipher the stamping instead of guessing worn digits.

Video Guide

Video Tutorial: VIN Locations - Hyundai Santa Fe (2013-2018)

▶ Watch Hyundai Santa Fe VIN Location Guide

• Walkthrough of the windshield VIN plus the driver’s door/jamb sticker locations for quick identification.

Common Problems & Troubleshooting

• Windshield glare/reflections: Shade the VIN plate with your hand or change viewing angle; reflections can hide 1–2 characters.
• Floor VIN under-seat access: Slide the seat all the way back and lift the carpet flap—bring a flashlight because it’s dark and the stamping can be dusty.
• Sticker validity warning: Door/pillar stickers can be missing, repainted over, or swapped after body repairs—always confirm against the stamped chassis number when buying or verifying identity.

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