Where is the VIN number in Nissan X-Trail (III (T32) [2016-2018])?

This guide covers the VIN/chassis number locations on the Nissan X-Trail III (T32) produced between 2016–2018, including the “hidden” stamped VIN that many owners struggle to find.

Chassis Number Locations

Engine Bay Bulkhead / Firewall (under cowl access cover)

• Where to look: Open the hood and go to the rear center of the engine bay, right below windshield level. The VIN is stamped into the vertical metal bulkhead/firewall, but it’s hidden behind a rectangular plastic access cover (about 15 cm wide) built into the plastic cowl trim at the base of the windshield.
• Access: Locate the rectangular cutout in the center of the cowl panel, then unclip/lift the plastic cover (it may hinge or come off completely). You’ll need to lean over the engine and shine a light into the recess to read the stamp; light cleaning may help if grime/leaves are present.
• Note: This stamped VIN is centrally located and is typically the same idea on LHD and RHD cars (the video vehicle is RHD, but the bulkhead position is still center-rear of the engine bay).
• Tip: Because it’s recessed and shadowy, use a flashlight and scan it instead of squinting—you can scan the VIN directly with your phone to reduce misreads in low light.

Windshield VIN plate (lower corner)

• Where to look: Check the lower corner of the windshield where the VIN plate is visible from outside (on LHD vehicles it’s typically on the left side of the car, and mirrored for RHD markets).
• Access: No tools needed—just look through the glass from outside the vehicle.
• Note: If you’re in an LHD market (EU/US), expect this plate to be on the opposite side compared to UK/RHD examples.
• Tip: Reflections and glare can scramble characters—capture it with the ScanVin.app VIN reader so you don’t have to manually transcribe through the glass.

B-pillar / Door jamb certification label (VIN sticker)

• Where to look: Open a front door and inspect the B-pillar/door jamb area for the printed certification sticker that includes the VIN and weight ratings (side can vary by market).
• Access: Easy access; just wipe dust and read the printed text.
• Note: Market-dependent placement; if you don’t see it on one side, check the other door jamb.
• Tip: Stickers are usually high-contrast—use the free VIN scanner to grab it instantly and avoid typing errors.

Video Guide

Video Tutorial: Nissan X-Trail (2018) Chassis Vin Number Location pr/blk XTrail

▶ Watch Nissan X-Trail VIN Location Guide

• Shows the rear-center engine bay cowl area, removes the small plastic access cover, then uses a light to reveal the stamped chassis/VIN on the bulkhead.

Common Problems & Troubleshooting

• Too dark to read (bulkhead/cowl stamp): This area is recessed like a “cave”—use a flashlight, change your viewing angle, and clean the stamp lightly if needed.
• Low contrast on stamped metal: Painted/dirty metal can hide characters; wipe it and try different lighting angles to bring out the embossing.
• Door-jamb sticker issues: If the certification label is peeled, damaged, or missing, don’t rely on it alone—confirm the stamped chassis number matches the documents.

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