Where is the engine number located on a BMW 118?

[SanLeila]

For the BMW series, the engine number is located on the engine block, at the junction between the front of the cylinder head and the engine block. It typically consists of a combination of 7 to 8 digits and letters. In addition to the above method, the engine number can also be found through the following 4 ways: The vehicle's driving license displays the engine number, usually on the second-to-last line; The motor vehicle registration certificate records the engine number; The car purchase invoice includes the engine number; The vehicle purchase tax payment certificate states the engine 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 lineup, and engine models can be identical. The engine number, however, refers to the production serial number of the engine. Each engine can only have one unique engine number, and no two engines share the same number.

[DiLorenzo]

My car is a BMW 118, and I often check the engine myself, so I'm quite familiar with this issue. Generally, the engine number is located in the central top area of the engine block. After opening the hood, you can see it engraved on the metal cylinder block at a glance. Sometimes it's covered by a bit of dust or oil sludge, so you’ll need to gently wipe it clean with a cloth to see it clearly. During repairs, I’ve noticed that the position is mostly near the spark plugs or below the intake pipe, with slight variations depending on the model year—for example, the 2018 version might be slightly to the right. If you can’t find it, don’t worry; try removing the small plastic cover on the engine hood to expose it. For safety, avoid touching hot spots before the engine cools down. Every time I record the number, I take a photo for backup, which is convenient for future insurance registration or repair reference. The overall design is very user-friendly, and even a beginner can manage it in just a few minutes.

[DelIsabelle]

As a new owner of a BMW 118 for less than two years, I was completely lost when searching for the engine number for the first time. After struggling for half an hour, I finally found it on the right corner of the engine. After lifting the hood and looking from the front of the car, the position is basically on the side of the cylinder head, right next to the coolant reservoir or the air filter box, engraved clearly on the smooth alloy surface. I recommend carrying a small flashlight to make it easier to locate in low-light conditions. Once found, remember to take a photo for records, as it's often needed for annual inspections or maintenance. Now with more experience, I know the position is relatively fixed and well-designed, so beginners just need to be patient and avoid disassembling parts blindly—they'll find it quickly. I also found that video guides shared by other owners online are quite helpful; checking the specific model match can save time and reduce detours.

[LeAlessandra]

After evaluating multiple BMWs, the engine number location for the BMW 118 is typically found on the top surface of the engine block or the front edge. It is directly visible upon opening the hood, with the numbers clearly engraved on the metal component. The placement is practical for daily viewing without requiring tools, and it's recommended to check when the engine is cool to avoid burns. This number is crucial for identifying vehicle configurations during maintenance. Generally, owners only need to open the engine compartment for a quick identification, thanks to its simple and reliable design.

[NolanLynn]

Having driven for decades, including older BMW models, I'm quite familiar with the location of the 118 engine number—it's usually on the upper metal block of the engine, such as near the pulley or cooling fan. Early models had it more visibly exposed, while modern BMWs might have a plastic cover, but removing a small section reveals the clearly stamped number. During the process, wearing gloves is advisable to prevent slipping and oil stains. I prefer using a wet wipe to clean the numbers before taking a photo for record-keeping to avoid forgetting. The accessible location makes it easy for owners to handle themselves, saving money and effort, unlike some brands where it's deeply hidden. Once found, it’s reassuring for various registration purposes.