How do I figure out what engine I have?

Short answer: identify the device you’re dealing with—cars use VIN data and engine codes, computers use CPU model information, and motorcycles or boats use engine serial numbers or model codes found on the engine itself or in official papers. This guide walks you through each common scenario so you can verify the exact engine type and get the right parts and service.

Car engines: identifying the engine in a vehicle

For most cars, the quickest path to the exact engine type is to check the vehicle identification sources and the engine itself. This helps with parts compatibility, maintenance schedules, and warranty information.

To locate and verify the engine type, follow these steps:

1. Find the VIN: look at the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield) or the driver’s door jamb sticker. Write down the full 17-character VIN.


2. Decode the VIN or use a trusted VIN decoder: many manufacturer sites and third‑party services can translate the VIN to engine option and year.


3. Look for the engine code stamped on the engine block or on a metal plate near the valve cover or timing area. The code is often a short alphanumeric string (for example, "R36" or "2AZ-FE").


4. Check engine-bay labels: there may be a sticker or plate on the radiator support or inner fender that lists the engine type, displacement, and emission information.


5. Consult the owner’s manual or service records: these documents usually specify the engine model or option installed at purchase.


6. If you’re still unsure, contact the dealership or the manufacturer with your VIN to get the exact engine specification.

Understanding the engine identification helps you order the right parts, follow the correct maintenance schedule, and verify warranty coverage. If the VIN decode and engine stamp disagree, rely on the block stamp or dealer confirmation as authoritative.

Where to look on a car for engine information

Key locations commonly contain engine-identifying data. Look for:

• Engine block stamping near the intake manifold or on the timing cover.


• A data plate on the engine itself, often near the valve cover.


• Emission or compliance stickers in the engine bay.

These locations vary by make and model, so checking multiple sources (VIN, manual, dealer) increases accuracy.

Computers and electronics: identifying a CPU, GPU, or other processors

On a computer or smart device, the “engine” usually means the central processor or primary chipset. Knowing the exact model helps in compatibility, performance planning, and software requirements.

To identify the main processor and related components, follow these steps:

1. On Windows: open Settings > System > About, or press Win+R and type "msinfo32" to see the Processor, System Type, and BIOS/UEFI details.


2. On macOS: click the Apple menu > About This Mac to view the CPU model and speed; use System Report for deeper detail.


3. On Linux: run commands such as "lscpu" or "cat /proc/cpuinfo" in a terminal; you can also use "uname -m" for architecture.


4. Check the device label or packaging: many laptops have a model sticker with CPU family or code; desktops may list specs on the case or in the BIOS.


5. For GPUs and accelerators: in the system information tools, identify the Graphics/Video Card model and memory.


6. To ensure precision, consult the BIOS/UEFI firmware or the manufacturer’s support page using the exact model number.

With this information, you can match the exact CPU model, generation, and supported features to parts, drivers, and software requirements. This also helps when upgrading hardware or checking compatibility with software updates.

Other devices: engines in motorcycles, boats, or specialized equipment

Motor vehicles and watercraft often have engine numbers that are separate from the frame or hull identifiers. Documentation and on‑engine markings are your best sources for exact specifications.

Steps to identify engine information on motorcycles, boats, or similar equipment:

1. Locate the frame/HIN or hull ID: for motorcycles, VIN is usually on the steering neck or under the seat; for boats, the HIN is on the transom and in registration papers.


2. Find the engine number stamped on the engine block or valve cover; this is typically a serial code separate from the frame or hull ID.


3. Check the service manual or parts catalog for the match between engine code and model, displacement, and fuel system.


4. Use dealer or manufacturer resources with your VIN/HIN and engine number to confirm compatibility and service intervals.

Having the engine number and the identification codes on hand will guide you to the exact specification, recommended maintenance, and compatible parts.

Summary

Figuring out what engine you have starts with identifying the device you’re examining. Cars rely on VINs and engine codes found in the engine bay and on documentation; computers rely on CPU models via system information tools or BIOS/UEFI; motorcycles and boats rely on engine numbers and manufacturer data. Use VIN decode services, consult manuals or dealers, and confirm any conflicting data with the engine stamping for accuracy. This approach helps you source correct parts, schedule appropriate maintenance, and avoid compatibility issues.

How do I check my engine size?

You can check your engine size by looking for a plaque under the hood, checking the owner's manual, or using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) with an online decoder or your dealership. The engine size is also often listed on a sticker on the driver's side door jamb, on the car's title or insurance documents, or directly on the engine block itself.
 
This video shows where to find the VIN and engine size on the car: 45sMr. B's Auto shopYouTube · Aug 18, 2020
Methods to check your engine size

• Under the hood: Look for a sticker on the hood or a plaque on the firewall or radiator support. You can also sometimes find information on the engine block itself. 
• Owner's Manual: This is a reliable source for your vehicle's specifications, including engine size, fuel type, and recommended oil. Check the "Specifications" or "Engine Information" section. 
• VIN: The 17-character VIN contains detailed information about your car. 
  • Locate the VIN: It can be found on the dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver's side door jamb, or on your car's title and insurance documents. 
  • Decode the VIN: Use an online VIN decoder from sites like Kelley Blue Book, Carfax, or your car manufacturer's website. The eighth character of the VIN often provides engine information. 
• Sticker on the door jamb: Check the sticker on the driver's side door or pillar for a plaque that may include engine size and other vehicle data. 
• Official documents: Your vehicle's title or insurance documents will often have the engine specifications listed. 

You can watch this video to see how to decode a VIN and check engine size: 54sSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Jan 16, 2025

How to check car engine model?

You can find your car's engine type by checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which is on the dashboard or driver's side door jamb, and using a VIN decoder online or a mechanic's resource. Alternatively, you can look for an engine cover or a sticker under the hood that may list the engine's size, or consult the owner's manual. 
Using the VIN

• Locate the VIN: Look for the 17-character VIN on the driver's side of the dashboard, visible through the windshield, or on the driver's side door jamb. It's also on your car's title and insurance documents. 
• Decode the VIN: The eighth character of the VIN typically contains information about the engine. 
• Use an online decoder: Enter the VIN into a free online VIN decoder from sites like AutoZone or Kelley Blue Book to get details about your vehicle's engine. 
• Check the manufacturer's website: Some manufacturers have a VIN lookup tool on their website that can provide specific details about your car's engine. 

Checking under the hood

• Look for an engine cover: Many modern engines have a plastic engine cover where the size (e.g., "3.3 L") is often printed. 
• Find the emissions decal: Look for a sticker, often called an emissions decal, under the hood. This tag frequently contains the engine size. 

Other methods

• Consult your owner's manual: The owner's manual contains detailed information about your vehicle, including the specific engine it was manufactured with. 
• Ask a mechanic: When you take your car in for service, ask a mechanic. They can tell you what engine is in your vehicle based on the VIN or other identifiers. 

How do you identify your engine?

So how do you know the exact specification of your engine? All the information you need about your engine is included in the serial number on your engine plate, which you can use to find the parts to fit on your engine.

Can my VIN number tell me what engine I have?

Can my VIN number tell me what engine I have? Yes. Characters 4-8 on a given VIN denotes the vehicle's manufacturer, engine size, and type.