How to Check the Engine Number?
3 Answers
The methods to check the engine number are: 1. Check on the vehicle's driving license; 2. Check the engine number on the motor vehicle registration certificate; 3. Check the engine number on the car purchase invoice; 4. The factory certificate includes the engine number; 5. The operation certificate of commercial vehicles can be used to check the engine number; 6. Check on the vehicle insurance card. The components of the engine number include: 1. Product series code; 2. Generation symbol and location; 3. Enterprise code; 4. Cylinder count symbol; 5. Cylinder arrangement symbol; 6. Stroke symbol and cylinder diameter symbol; 7. Structural feature symbol and usage feature symbol; 8. Distinguishing symbol.
Last time I changed my used car's license plate, I also had to find the engine number. You can simply open the engine hood, and it's usually located on the side or top of the engine block. You might need to wipe off some grease with a rag to see it clearly. For some cars, it's engraved near the firewall side of the engine, requiring a flashlight to locate. If you really can't find it, check the second page of the vehicle registration certificate or the driving license, as it's printed there too. Remember to turn off the engine and let it cool for at least ten minutes before checking, or you might burn your hands. If you still can't find it, don't worry—just ask a 4S店 (dealership) mechanic to check the chassis position using a lift. It's much easier than crawling around the engine bay and getting your clothes dirty. Last time, I ended up with engine oil all over my hands.
Checking engine numbers involves many tricks, and I often handle this when helping friends inspect cars. Older models usually have them engraved on the side of the engine block, while newer ones might place them near the ECU. Remember to bring carburetor cleaner—spray it when oil sludge covers the number. If you still can't find it, check the vehicle conformity certificate, that QR-coded paper in the document folder. However, I highly recommend doing this in the morning when the engine is cold—it won’t burn your hands and is easier to wipe. If you can’t manage it yourself, spend 50 bucks to hire a workshop worker—they’ll take a rubbing for you in three minutes.
