Where to Check the Engine Number?
2 Answers
Engine numbers are typically located in the following places: printed on the engine block, clearly visible on the vehicle's driving license, specified in the motor vehicle registration certificate, and also included in the vehicle purchase tax payment certificate. To facilitate production management and usage, engine manufacturers assign identification codes to batches of identical products based on relevant regulations, industry practices, and engine attributes. Meaning of the engine number: Prefix: Includes product series code, generation symbol, and regional or enterprise code. Manufacturers may choose corresponding letters as needed, but these must be approved and filed by the industry-standard regulatory body. Middle section: Consists of symbols for the number of cylinders, cylinder arrangement type, stroke, and cylinder diameter. Suffix: Comprises symbols for structural features and usage characteristics. Tail: Distinguishing symbol. When differentiation is required due to improvements or other reasons within the same product series, manufacturers may select appropriate symbols. The suffix and tail can be separated by a "-".
The engine number is commonly found on the engine block, typically engraved on the surface of metal components within the engine compartment. Based on my years of driving experience, its location varies significantly depending on the vehicle model and year. For instance, older sedans often have it near the right cylinder head, while newer models may place it on a nameplate or the bottom of the engine. After opening the hood, carefully crouch down and use a flashlight to inspect flat areas thoroughly—avoid burns or contact with high-pressure lines. This number is crucial for vehicle registration and insurance verification, so remember to take a photo during routine maintenance. Different brands may have different placements: Volkswagen might position it closer to the cabin side, while Toyota could place it more outward. Consulting the manual or asking a specialized repair shop can save time.
