Where is the engine number on a Subaru Impreza?
The engine number on a Subaru Impreza is stamped directly into the engine block, and the exact spot can vary by generation and engine family. In most cases you’ll find it on the block surface visible from the engine bay, often near the bellhousing or timing area.
Common locations by engine family
To help you zero in quickly, here are the typical spots you’ll encounter on the two main Subaru engine families used in Imprezas over the years. The number may be stamped into the metal or placed on a small data plate.
Older EJ-series engines (classic Impreza models)
Check these common areas first when you open the hood:
- Front passenger-side block surface near the timing belt/chain cover — a stamped number on a machined pad is a frequent location.
- Block side near the bellhousing/transmission interface — a vertical surface on the block sometimes holds the stamping just above the oil filter area.
- Rear side of the engine block toward the firewall — on some EJ engines the number is on the rear face of the block, partially obscured by wiring.
- Any accompanying data plate on the engine (if present) near the valve cover or intake manifold.
These spots cover the majority of EJ-era Imprezas, but exact placement can vary by sub-model and year. If you don’t see a stamp, there may be a tag or plate in one of the nearby locations.
Newer FA/FB engines (modern Impreza models)
For the newer engine families, look in these areas:
- Side of the block near the timing cover or near the oil filter — the serial number is often stamped on a flat surface here.
- Along the block’s side close to the valve cover; some models place the number on a small data plate attached to the engine.
- Rear-facing block surface near the firewall on certain configurations; visibility improves with easier access to wiring harnesses removed.
Newer FA/FB engines sometimes rely on a data plate rather than a direct stamp, so inspect both the metal surface and any attached tag for the full engine serial number.
How to locate and read the number
Once you know the general areas to check, follow these steps to extract and verify the engine number:
- Identify your engine family by checking the VIN or any engine code plate that might be present on the valve cover or intake manifold.
- Inspect the block surfaces described above with the hood open, cleaning away dirt if needed to reveal stamped characters.
- Look for a stamped serial number on a machined pad or a metal data plate; digits are typically clear and engraved or raised depending on the design.
- If a plate is present, read both the serial and any engine code printed on it; on some models the plate includes both pieces of information.
- Record the number exactly as seen and compare it with official records (manuals, dealership databases, or parts catalogs) to confirm the engine’s identity and compatibility.
If access is restricted by nearby components or aftermarket modifications, you may need to temporarily reposition cover panels or remove a small amount of insulation to read the stamping clearly. When in doubt, a Subaru dealer or service guide can confirm the precise spot for your exact year and engine type.
Summary
In summary, the Subaru Impreza’s engine number is typically stamped on the engine block itself, most often on the passenger-side area near the bellhousing or timing cover, with newer FA/FB engines sometimes using a small data plate on the block. Because location can vary by generation and engine family, consult your owner’s manual or a service guide for the exact spot on your model, or contact a dealer for precise instructions.
Where can I read the engine number?
For most domestic vehicles, the engine serial number is often stamped or engraved on the engine block. The location varies, but it's usually found on: The front of the engine. The side near the alternator.
How do I locate my engine number?
An engine number is a unique identification number assigned to each engine of a vehicle. You can generally find the engine number embossed on the engine block. You can also check your vehicle's registration certificate, insurance policy, or ownership manual provided by the car dealership for the engine number.
What engine is in a Subaru Impreza?
The Subaru Impreza has a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER® engine as its standard engine, producing 152 horsepower. Some models, like the RS trim, are equipped with a more powerful 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER® engine that delivers 182 horsepower.
- 2.0-liter BOXER® engine: This is the standard engine for most Impreza models and generates 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque.
- 2.5-liter BOXER® engine: Available on sportier trims, this engine provides 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.
Where to find engine number on Subaru?
The Subaru engine number is typically located on the engine block, often near the alternator or distributor, and is also sometimes found on a metal plate attached to the block. You may also find the engine number listed on a chassis tag inside the engine bay, usually on the passenger side strut tower.
This video shows how to find the engine number on a Subaru Forester: 51sCarsNodeYouTube · Oct 10, 2021
On the engine block
- Physical stamp: The engine number is often stamped directly onto the engine block, usually on the top, left of the alternator.
- Behind components: For some models, the location is behind or under the alternator or distributor.
On a VIN plate or chassis tag
- Location: The engine number is often on a VIN plate, typically found in the engine compartment on the left (driver's side) next to the strut tower.
- Information on the tag: The chassis tag often contains the model/chassis number on the first row, the engine number on the second, and the transmission type on the third.
