Where is the engine block identification on a Ford?
The engine block identification on Ford vehicles is typically stamped directly into the engine block on the side near the bellhousing or starter, and some models use a metal tag or label in the engine bay to identify the code.
The exact spot can vary by engine family and generation. Ford’s lineup spans modular V8s, EcoBoost four- and six-cylinder engines, and diesel Power Stroke units, each with its own ID location. This guide highlights the most common places, how to read the code, and model-specific notes to help you locate the right identification quickly.
Common locations by engine family
The following locations are the most frequently encountered places for Ford engine block identification. Look first where noted, then check adjacent surfaces if you don’t see a stamped pad or tag at the initial spot.
- The engine block surface near the bellhousing on the passenger side, often on a machined pad or raised area with stamped characters.
- A front-facing machined pad on the block near the timing cover or water pump, sometimes visible from the right (passenger) side of the engine bay.
- A metal tag or metal plate attached to the valve cover or timing cover in some models, providing a compact code rather than stamping directly into the block.
- In a few newer or specialty models, a label or sticker in the engine bay (on the radiator support or firewall area) lists the engine code for quick reference.
Because the location varies by engine family and year, start with the most common spots described above and consult your owner’s manual or service manual if you don’t find the code immediately.
How to read the engine code
Before diving into decoding, know that Ford engine codes are usually a short alphanumeric string that identifies the engine family and variant. The exact format can differ by generation and engine family, so use official Ford resources to interpret it accurately.
- Identify the code itself: a small set of letters and/or numbers stamped on the pad or tag. It is typically 2–4 characters long, though some variations exist.
- Note any adjacent markings: some blocks also include a build date, production code, or suffix that provides extra context.
- Use Ford’s official references: cross‑check the code with Ford’s parts catalogs, service manuals, or dealer lookup tools that publish engine-code decoders for your model year and engine family.
- Document the vehicle specifics: have the VIN, model, year, and engine family handy when looking up the code to ensure an accurate match.
Understanding the code helps with parts compatibility, service bulletins, and identifying the correct replacement components. If the code isn’t obvious, a dealership or a qualified independent shop can pull the exact engine code using the VIN.
Model-specific notes
Gasoline modular V8 families (examples include 4.6, 5.0, 5.4, and related variants)
In many older and some mid-generation modular V8s, the serial number is stamped on the block surface on the passenger side near the bellhousing or just above the oil pan rail. Some later variants place a stamp or tag on the front of the block near the timing cover. If you don’t see a stamp on the side, inspect the front lower area of the block for a recessed pad with characters.
EcoBoost engines (2.3L, 2.7L, 3.0L, 3.5L variants)
EcoBoost engines commonly use a front-facing machined pad on the block near the timing cover or a tag on the valve cover. The exact spot may change by year and model, so if you don’t locate a stamp on the side, check the front of the block and the valve covers for a code or tag.
Power Stroke diesel engines
Power Stroke diesels typically have the engine serial number stamped on the left/front side of the block or on a machined pad near the front cover. Some models may carry a tag in the engine bay with the code. Diesel engines often have more robust, clearly stamped pads for durability in harsh service conditions.
When in doubt, verify with Ford’s official documentation for your exact vehicle year and engine family, or contact a dealer with your VIN. Precise localization can shift between model years and revisions, so using model-specific resources helps ensure you’re reading the correct block identification.
Summary
Ford engine block identification is usually found stamped on the engine block itself—commonly on the passenger side near the bellhousing or starter—or on a tag/label in the engine bay. The location varies by engine family (modular V8, EcoBoost, Power Stroke, etc.), so consult the owner’s manual or a Ford service resource for your specific model and year. Once located, use the code to identify the exact engine variant for parts, service, and compatibility checks.
