Where is the engine code on the MR2?
The MR2’s engine code identifies the exact engine family and variant used in your car. It is physically stamped on the engine block itself, not on the chassis, and the exact readout location varies by generation. Knowing where to look helps with parts compatibility, maintenance, and sourcing correct manuals.
In brief, you’ll find the engine code stamped on a machined pad on the front or side of the engine block, usually near the timing belt/chain cover. You may need to remove covers or accessory belts to read it. The exact spot depends on whether your MR2 is a first generation (AW11), second generation (SW20), or the MR-S variant.
Generational overview
Use this quick guide to locate the engine code by MR2 generation:
- AW11 (1984–1989) — typically with the 4A-GE or 4A-C engines. The engine code is stamped on a machined pad on the front face of the block, usually visible with the timing belt cover removed.
- SW20 (1990–1999) — typically with the 3S-GE or 3S-GTE engines. The engine code is stamped on a machined pad on the front/side of the block, often accessible once the timing belt cover or nearby covers are removed.
- MR-S / ZZW30 (2000–2005) — typically with the 1ZZ-FE engine. The engine code is stamped on a machined pad on the block near the timing cover; you may need to remove intake components or covers to read it.
Note: In all generations, some MR2s also carry a data plate or tag attached to the engine block or nearby, which can display the engine code. If you don’t immediately see stamping, check both the block surface and any attached plates, and consult the service manual for the exact pad location for your specific model and year.
How to read the engine code
Read the code once you’ve uncovered the relevant area. Here’s how to proceed:
- Disconnect the battery and secure the vehicle for safe access.
- Remove obstructions such as the timing belt/chain cover, accessory belts, or intake components if needed to expose the engine block pad.
- Look for a stamped or engraved sequence on a raised or machined pad. It will typically be something like 4A-GE, 3S-GE, 3S-GTE, or 1ZZ-FE, sometimes followed by additional suffixes that indicate revisions or variants.
- Cross-check the found code with your vehicle’s year and generation in the official Toyota service literature or trusted manuals to confirm the exact variant.
If you’re unsure, photographing the pad and comparing with archived documentation or contacting a Toyota specialist can help confirm the exact engine variant.
Summary
For MR2 owners, the engine code is usually stamped on a machined pad on the engine block, near the timing cover area. The exact location shifts by generation: AW11 (4A-GE/4A-C) codes live on the front block face behind the timing cover, SW20 (3S-GE/3S-GTE) codes appear on a front/side block pad near the belt area, and MR-S (1ZZ-FE) codes are on a similar block pad close to the timing cover. If you can’t read it directly, try removing nearby covers or consulting the vehicle’s service manual to locate the precise pad for your model and year.
Where is the engine code located?
The engine code is typically stamped directly onto the engine block, often on a machined surface, but its exact location varies by vehicle. To find it, check the owner's manual for a diagram, or look in places like the front or side of the engine block, the top of the valve cover, or on an identification plate in the engine compartment. You may need to clean the area to see the numbers clearly.
This video shows how to locate the engine code on a Volkswagen or Audi: 55sECS TuningYouTube · Dec 19, 2016
Where to find the engine code
- On the engine block: This is the most common location. The code is usually stamped into a flat, machined surface, and you may need to clean the area to see it clearly.
- On an identification plate: Many vehicles have a metal plate or sticker with engine information. This can be found in the engine compartment or other locations.
- In the owner's manual: The owner's manual is a reliable source and may contain a diagram showing the exact location of the code for your specific vehicle.
- On other vehicle labels: The engine code can sometimes be found on other vehicle labels, such as the B-pillar (the pillar between the front and rear doors) or a sticker in the trunk.
- Inside the service book: Some service books have a sticker on the inside cover that lists the engine code along with other vehicle information.
Tips for finding the code
- Clean the area: Use a shop towel and solvent to clean the engine block to remove dirt and grime that may be obscuring the numbers.
- Use a flashlight: A bright light can help you see the stamped numbers in a dimly lit area of the engine bay.
- Check the VIN: While the engine code is different from the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), the 8th character of the VIN sometimes corresponds to the engine code. However, the code is more reliably found directly on the engine itself or in the owner's manual.
How do I find my Toyota engine code?
The engine number is stamped on the engine block. Since the engine number location varies by engine, you will need to refer to the Specifications section of your Owner's Manual to find a picture of the relative location of the engine number on your vehicle.
Where is the Hyundai engine number located?
The engine number is stamped on the engine block as shown on the images above.
What is the engine code for a 2002 Toyota MR2?
2002 Toyota MR2 SPYDER (1.8L 4 -cyl Engine Code [R] 1ZZ-FE 3) Motor Oil, Filters and Lubricants - AMSOIL.
