Where is the car engine number located?
4 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 car purchase invoice, the factory certificate, the operation certificate for commercial vehicles, the vehicle purchase tax payment certificate, the registration record with public security authorities, or the vehicle insurance card. The simplest and most direct method is to look at the vehicle's administrative green book or the vehicle registration certificate. The engine number is like a person's ID number, representing each vehicle. It contains very important information about the vehicle. The engine model is an identification code assigned by the engine manufacturer in accordance with relevant regulations, industry or company practices, and the engine's attributes. It represents information such as the manufacturer, specifications, performance, features, technology, purpose, and production batch of the engine, including fuel type, number of cylinders, displacement, and static braking power. Engines installed in passenger cars or multi-purpose vehicles are required to display the manufacturer's name, model, and production number. 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 product line, and multiple engines can share the same model. The engine number, however, is the production number of the engine, and each engine has a unique number. Structure of the engine number: Front part: Includes the product series code, generation symbol, and regional or company code. Manufacturers can choose appropriate letters as needed, but they must be approved and filed by the industry standardization unit. Middle part: Consists of symbols for the number of cylinders, cylinder arrangement, stroke, and cylinder diameter. Rear part: Composed of symbols for structural features and usage characteristics. Tail part: Distinguishing symbol. If differentiation is needed due to improvements or other reasons within the same series, the manufacturer selects an appropriate symbol. The rear and tail parts can be separated by a hyphen.
I've been driving for over thirty years, and the engine number is usually engraved on the engine block, specifically in a spot visible when you open the hood. Generally, it's printed on the surface of the block like an ID card, and its location can vary depending on the car model—sometimes on the top, side, or back, but in most cases, it's easy to find on the front or side of the engine. I remember once when I was selling an old car, I needed to provide it for the transfer process, and it took me a while to find it because it was covered in grease. I quickly wiped it with a cloth to make it clear. Why is it important? This number is used for registration transfers, insurance claims, or verifying parts during repairs. If you don’t know its location in advance, delays in the transfer process can be frustrating. I recommend checking when the engine is cold—safety first. It’s also easier on a sunny day when there’s plenty of light. I’ve seen people refer to the vehicle manual or registration certificate when they can’t find it, but verifying it yourself is the most reliable. Taking a quick look during regular maintenance can save a lot of trouble later.
When I first bought my car, I had no idea where the engine number was located. It wasn't until I checked the manual that I learned it's typically stamped on the engine block itself. When you pop the hood, you'll usually find those raised numbers on the side or top of the engine, though they're often covered in dust or oil stains - just clean them off for clarity. For instance, during my first maintenance service, the mechanic showed me the exact spot, and since then I've made it a habit to check whenever I open the hood. The exact position varies by model, but most mainstream cars have it in this general area. Why is it important? The DMV needs it for title transfers, and insurance companies require it for accident claims. I recommend new owners try locating it when the engine is cold after parking, using a flashlight to check corners; if you can't find it, take photos for reference. By the way, remember that the VIN is on the windshield - don't confuse it with the engine number. With some practice, you'll get the hang of it quickly.
As a car enthusiast, I always find it fascinating to locate the engine number. It's usually stamped on the engine block. The position varies - on older cars it might be prominently visible on top, while newer models sometimes hide it on the firewall. You'll spot the location when you pop the hood, though it's often covered in grime and needs cleaning first. I use it to verify parts when working on my own car; it helps trace the engine's history like manufacturing year and such. I'd recommend doing this in good lighting to make it easier.
