How to Check the Engine Number of a Motor Vehicle?
3 Answers
The engine number is generally found on the outer surface of the engine block, or on the vehicle's nameplate or the nameplate inside the engine compartment. You can also check the engine number on the purchase invoice; the factory certificate includes the engine number; for commercial vehicles, the operation permit can be used to check the engine number; the vehicle purchase tax payment certificate contains the engine number; the public security authority's registration records have the engine number; the vehicle insurance card includes the engine number; the simplest and most direct method is to look at the vehicle registration certificate or the vehicle's driving license. The engine number is like a person's ID number, representing each vehicle. It stores very important information about the vehicle. The engine model is an identification code assigned by the engine manufacturer in accordance with relevant regulations, corporate or industry practices, and the attributes of the engine, for a batch of identical products. It indicates information such as the manufacturer, specifications, performance, characteristics, technology, purpose, and batch of the engine, including fuel type, number of cylinders, displacement, and static braking power, etc. Engines installed in cars or multi-purpose passenger vehicles are required to display the professional manufacturer, model, and production number of the engine. It's important to note that the engine number is not the same as the engine model. The engine model refers to the specifications and size of the engine within the manufacturer's range, and engine models can be the same. The engine number, however, refers to the production number of the engine, where each engine can only have one unique engine number, and no two engines share the same number. Composition of the Vehicle Engine Number: Front Part: Includes product series code, generation symbol, and regional or corporate code, which manufacturers can choose as needed with corresponding letters, but must be approved and recorded by the industry standard's regulatory body. Middle Part: Consists of the cylinder count symbol, cylinder arrangement symbol, stroke symbol, and cylinder diameter symbol. Rear Part: Composed of structural feature symbols and usage feature symbols. Tail Part: Differentiation symbol. When differentiation is needed within the same product series due to improvements or other reasons, manufacturers can select appropriate symbols to indicate, with the rear and tail parts possibly separated by a hyphen.
As a car owner, I always verify the engine number during each maintenance to avoid being scammed by shady shops. The most straightforward method is to check the vehicle license (that green booklet), where the engine number is clearly stated in the 'Basic Vehicle Information' section. If the document is lost, pop open the hood and look for a small metal plate on the engine itself—usually engraved on the side or top. You might need a flashlight and a cleaning cloth for a clear view. Some older cars have it hidden in tricky spots, like under the cylinder block, so consider seeking professional help if needed. I also know that if the engine number is worn off, dealerships can scan the VIN through their system to retrieve the original number. Always check documents first, then the physical part, and ensure the engine is off and cooled before inspection—safety and peace of mind guaranteed.
I'm a tech enthusiast who loves delving into vehicle details. Checking the engine number actually requires some know-how: first look for the printed section on the vehicle registration certificate or title, which makes it obvious at a glance. If that doesn't work, perform a physical search—engines usually have an engraved identification plate fixed under the hood. For new cars, it's in a prominent location, but some models like SUVs might hide it deep inside, requiring tools to remove covers. I've also tried reading the data through the OBD port with a diagnostic tool, but beginners shouldn't tamper with it to avoid mistakes. During regular maintenance, periodically jot down the number to prevent issues with theft or ownership transfer. Remember, when checking the number, avoid touching hot components for safety.
