Where is the engine number located on a BMW 320li?
4 Answers
The engine number of a BMW 320li is located under the front hood or on the right front door of the vehicle. It is generally a combination of 7 to 8 digits and letters. In addition to the above method, the engine number can also be checked through the following 4 ways: The vehicle's driving license will have the engine number printed, usually located on the second-to-last line; The motor vehicle registration certificate will state the engine number; The car purchase invoice will state the engine number; The vehicle purchase tax payment certificate will state the engine number. It is 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. Each engine can only have one engine number, and the number for each engine is unique.
In all my years of repairing cars, the engine number of the BMW 320Li is engraved on a metal plate attached to the engine block itself, typically located at the front of the engine after opening the hood, near the windshield. You need to look carefully at that plate, as the number might be obscured by dust or piping, and sometimes you have to remove the plastic intake manifold cover to see it clearly. I often find it easily after brushing off the dust with a small brush—this number is crucial for vehicle inspection or repair identification. This placement is standard for the F30 generation 3 Series, with a stable location, but I recommend checking it in good lighting conditions.
My BMW 320Li was purchased in 2015, and finding the engine number is quite simple. After opening the hood, you can see the small metal plate engraved with the number on the top-left side of the engine metal. During my last annual inspection, I found it on the first try. Just remember not to do it when it's too dusty—a quick wipe with a cloth will make it visible. The manual also mentions a similar location. If you still can't find it, take a photo and send it to a repair shop to help you locate it. This number is crucial for vehicle management, so don't take it lightly.
Having researched BMW for quite some time, the engine number of the 320Li is generally located on the top nameplate of the engine block. When you open the hood, the number is prominently engraved in a visible position towards the front center of the engine. It's easy to find without complicating things. As a related tip, also note that the VIN number is located at the lower corner of the windshield for overall vehicle identification.
