What is an Engine Type Approval Number?
2 Answers
Engine Type Approval Number is the code on the vehicle type approval certificate. Below are specific details about the Engine Type Approval Number: 1. Meaning: The first two letters CN represent China; the next two letters, ZC represents heavy-duty vehicles equipped with compression ignition engines; if it is QQ, it represents light-duty gasoline vehicles; QC represents light-duty diesel vehicles; CJ represents compression ignition engines; QL represents light-duty dual-fuel vehicles. 2. Additional Information: The Type Approval Certificate is used for motor vehicle type approval. Automobile manufacturers must apply for and obtain national approval for the type approval of pollutant emission control performance to produce and sell vehicles. The type approval application for a vehicle model should be submitted by the automobile manufacturer, and the content of the application includes exhaust pollutants, crankcase pollutants, evaporative pollutants, durability of pollution control devices, and OBD systems for a vehicle model.
As a driver with over a decade of experience, I frequently deal with car issues. The engine type approval number is essentially the government-issued certification code for an engine, serving as its ID number. Every time I purchase a car, I carefully check this number to ensure it complies with national emission standards, such as China V or China VI—otherwise, it won’t pass the annual inspection. You can usually find it on a sticker under the hood or the vehicle’s nameplate. When shopping in the used car market, I always insist on verifying this number because without it, the car might be non-compliant or modified, increasing the risk of malfunctions. During maintenance, mechanics use this number to match parts, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Don’t underestimate its importance—it directly impacts road safety and environmental protection. That’s why I recommend regularly checking and recording it to avoid sudden issues if the number turns out invalid.
