Where is the engine number on a Chevrolet Cruze?
4 Answers
The engine number of the Chevrolet Cruze is located on the engine block and can be seen by opening the engine hood. In addition to the above method, the engine number can also be checked in the following 4 ways: The vehicle's driving license contains the engine number, usually located in 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 lineup, and engine models can be the same. The engine number, however, refers to the production number of the engine, where each engine has a unique number that is different from all others. The engine number consists of four parts, each with different meanings. The first part includes the product series code, generation symbol, and regional or enterprise code, which are chosen by the manufacturer as needed but must be approved and recorded by the industry standard authority. The middle part consists of symbols for the number of cylinders, cylinder arrangement, stroke, and bore diameter. The rear part includes symbols for structural features and usage characteristics. The tail part is a distinguishing symbol, used by the manufacturer to indicate modifications or other changes within the same series of products.
I've been repairing Chevrolets for ten years, and the most reliable place to find the Cruze's engine number is on the engine block. Run your fingers down the left side of the engine, near the area behind the alternator, and you'll find a smoothed platform where the stamped number is located. For older models, it might be hidden near the connection between the engine and transmission, requiring a flashlight to see clearly. Some owners struggle to find it during inspections, but wiping off grease with a cloth and using ink and paper to take an impression works best. Don’t just check the cylinder head—that spot can be misleading. If it's covered in dirt and hard to see, a quick spray with carburetor cleaner will reveal it instantly.
Just helped my neighbor locate the Cruze's engine number last week. It's in the front compartment near the driver's side. There's a raised square area on the engine surface with engraved alphanumeric characters - you'll need a flashlight to see them clearly. Don't be intimidated by all the pipes when lifting the hood; the number isn't under any plastic covers, you need to look at the metal engine block. The location differs between new and old models - post-2013 vehicles moved it to the right rear side of the engine. If you can't find it, try using your phone to take pictures by reaching in, which is easier than bending over to search.
Last time during the vehicle inspection, I had a bad experience - almost missed the deadline while searching for the engine number. Now I clearly remember: the Cruze's engine number is located on the left side of the engine block, those raised and recessed characters on the aluminum surface. After lifting the hood, squat down to see it - the position is quite low and close to the firewall, with noticeable raised steel stamps you can feel with your fingers. Pro tip: bring a magnet to stick on the engine bay edge as a marker for next maintenance. New drivers who just got their license should do this on sunny days - poor lighting makes it easy to miss. When making a rubbing, use the side of a pencil on paper for better results than ink pads.
