Where is the VIN number in Volkswagen Passat (B8)?

This guide covers the VIN (chassis number) locations on the Volkswagen Passat (B8) produced between 2015–2021, with the quickest real-world spots to check first.

Chassis Number Locations

1) Engine Bay — Right Strut Tower / Inner Fender (Stamped VIN)

• Where to look: Open the hood and go to the right side of the engine compartment (right side of the vehicle, facing forward). Look on the metal chassis near the strut tower/inner fender, fairly high up near the cowl area. The VIN is stamped directly into the metal, usually running parallel with the fender line.
• Access: Moderate effort. It’s generally exposed, but the area can be shadowy and often dirty/greasy—wipe it clean and use a flashlight to read the characters.
• Note: For LHD cars, this is typically on the passenger side of the engine bay. For RHD cars, it’s still on the right side of the vehicle, which may be the driver side—don’t confuse “right side” with “driver side.”
• Tip: If the stamping is dusty or low-contrast, wipe the metal and then scan the VIN with High Contrast AI Mode so your phone can pick out faint characters without you guessing.

2) Windshield — Lower Corner VIN Plate (Visible VIN)

• Where to look: From outside the car, check the lower corner of the windshield (commonly the driver-side lower corner on many markets). You’re looking for the VIN visible through the glass on a small plate.
• Access: Very easy—no tools, no opening panels. The main issue is glare/reflections on the windshield.
• Note: If you’re struggling from outside due to reflections, try changing your viewing angle or shading the glass with your hand.
• Tip: When the glass is reflecting sky/lights, capture it with your phone using ScanVin.app to avoid transcription mistakes from glare and awkward angles.

3) Driver Door Area — B-Pillar / Door Jamb VIN Label (Sticker)

• Where to look: Open the driver’s door and inspect the B-pillar/door jamb area, usually lower down on the pillar. Look for a black VIN label/sticker that can also list paint codes and weight ratings.
• Access: Easy and usually well-lit. Over time the label can fade, peel, or get damaged.
• Note: Depending on market, the sticker can sometimes be on the passenger-side door area—if you don’t see it on the driver side, check the other front door opening.
• Tip: If the sticker print is faded, use the free VIN reader to scan it cleanly instead of trying to decipher worn characters by eye.

4) Infotainment / Dashboard Menu (Digital VIN Display)

• Where to look: Turn ignition on and check the infotainment “Car”/vehicle settings menus (some B8 Passats can display the VIN in vehicle information screens).
• Access: Requires powering the car and navigating menus. Screen flicker/refresh and reflections can make it annoying to read precisely.
• Note: Treat this as a verification method—your stamped VIN and labels are what you match against.
• Tip: If you just need to confirm the exact characters shown on-screen, scan the VIN from the display with your phone to reduce readback errors.

Video Guide

Video Tutorial: VW Passat Vin Number Location - YouTube

▶ Watch Volkswagen Passat VIN Location Guide

• Quick walkaround of a B8 Passat showing the stamped VIN location in the engine bay and an interior cluster shot.

Common Problems & Troubleshooting

• Stamped VIN hard to read (engine bay): Dirt/oxidation makes the stamping look “flat.” Scrub lightly with a rag (and a mild degreaser if needed), then re-check with a flashlight from an angle.
• Windshield VIN unreadable: Sun glare and reflections wash out the characters—shade the corner, change your angle, or check at dusk/indoors.
• Door jamb sticker mismatch or missing: Stickers can be replaced after repairs; always confirm the VIN matches the stamped chassis VIN before buying.

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