Where to Find the Car Engine Number?
2 Answers
Locating the engine number: Check the outer surface of the engine cylinder block, vehicle registration certificate, motor vehicle registration certificate, purchase invoice, factory certificate of compliance, operation certificate for commercial vehicles, vehicle purchase tax payment certificate, public security authority registration records, vehicle insurance card, or the actual engine (usually on the engine nameplate). The engine number, like a person's ID number, represents each vehicle and stores crucial information about it. The engine model is an identification code assigned by the engine manufacturer in accordance with relevant regulations, corporate or industry practices, and the engine's attributes. It is used to indicate 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 passenger vehicles must display the professional manufacturer's name, model, and production number as required. 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 serial number of the engine, with each engine having a unique number. Composition of the car engine number: Prefix: Includes product series code, generation symbol, and regional or corporate code. Manufacturers may choose appropriate letters as needed, subject to approval and filing by the industry standardization authority. Middle section: Consists of symbols for the number of cylinders, cylinder arrangement, stroke, and cylinder diameter. Suffix: Comprises symbols for structural features and usage characteristics. Tail: Differentiation 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 hyphen (-).
I've been driving for over a decade, and finding engine numbers is actually quite common. It's usually engraved on the engine itself, possibly on the side of the cylinder block under the hood or near the water pump. Some manufacturers stamp it on the inner side of the front bumper's nameplate, requiring you to open the hood for a closer look. My advice is to first turn off the engine and let the car cool down to avoid burns. Then use a phone flashlight to search; if it's too dark, check during daylight. Also, don't forget the user manual or maintenance logbook in the glove compartment—they often contain relevant information. The engine number is crucial when buying a used car to verify authenticity and history, helping you avoid problematic purchases. If you can't find it, visit a repair shop where technicians can assist—they're experienced with hidden locations across different models. In short, checking during routine maintenance can save a lot of trouble. I've developed a habit of taking a quick look every time I wash my car.
