How do I tell which engine my F-150 has?
Check the VIN’s engine code and the factory labels—the door/window sticker—and cross-check with Ford’s official decoder to determine the exact engine in your F-150.
Where to find the engine information
These are the most reliable, first-hand sources you can consult before taking any measurements or guesses.
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): Located on the driver’s side dashboard visible through the windshield, or on the driver’s door jamb label. The 8th character often represents the engine code, which you can map to the exact engine using Ford’s VIN decoder or a dealer.
- Window/Monroney sticker: Found on the driver’s door or window at sale; lists the engine option installed on the vehicle.
- Under-hood label or radiator shroud sticker: Usually shows the engine displacement and code (for example, “2.7L EcoBoost” or similar).
- Engine badge or nameplate: On the engine cover or valve cover itself, which may explicitly state the engine family (e.g., EcoBoost, V8, Hybrid).
- Owner’s manual or original build sheet: The documentation that came with the vehicle often lists the installed engine.
- FordPass or Ford Owner app: Some vehicles display engine details in the app under vehicle information.
Cross-referencing these sources helps ensure you identify the correct engine, especially as the F-150 has featured multiple powertrain options across years and trims.
Decoding the VIN to identify the engine
The VIN contains the engine code in a designated position, and Ford provides official tools to translate that code into the exact engine option. This is a quick way to confirm the engine without removing components or guessing based on appearance.
- Locate the VIN on the driver’s side dashboard or door jamb label; ensure you have the full 17 characters.
- Identify the engine code, which is typically the 8th character in the sequence.
- Use Ford’s official VIN decoder or contact a Ford dealer to map that code to the engine family (for example, EcoBoost, V8, or Hybrid).
- Cross-check the decoded engine with the information on the door sticker, under-hood label, or engine badge to confirm consistency.
Using the VIN is a reliable, year-spanning method because it ties the engine option directly to the vehicle’s original configuration.
Alternative confirmation methods
If you want additional reassurance beyond VIN decoding, there are a few practical cues you can rely on in the moment.
The PowerBoost Hybrid badge on the engine bay or vehicle exterior is a clear indicator of a hybrid setup, while a plain combustion engine badge points to traditional gasoline powertrains. Checking the original window sticker, consulting the Ford Owner app, or asking a Ford dealership service department can provide definitive confirmation, especially for recent model years where hybrid and EcoBoost configurations can coexist in similar trims.
Summary
To determine your F-150’s engine, start with the VIN and the factory labels (door jamb/window sticker, under-hood labels, and engine badges). Use Ford’s official VIN decoder to translate the engine code and cross-check across multiple sources for accuracy. If in doubt, a quick call to a Ford dealer or a visit to the Ford Owner app can seal the verification. Knowing the exact engine helps with maintenance schedules, parts compatibility, and performance expectations.
