To find out what engine your car has, the most reliable method is to use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN is a unique 17-character code found on your car, often visible on the dashboard near the windshield or on the driver's side door frame. Decoding the VIN reveals detailed information about your car, including the engine type and size. Here are the main ways to identify your car's engine:
- Use a VIN decoder tool: Websites like AutoZone, Mopar, or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) offer free VIN decoders. By entering your VIN, you can get detailed info about your car's engine size, type, and other specs
- Check the owner's manual or vehicle documents: The engine information is often listed in the owner's manual or on the vehicle registration (V5C) form, which includes engine capacity
- Look for labels under the hood: Some cars have an emissions label or a sticker under the hood that specifies engine size and type
- Visual identification: Experienced car enthusiasts can sometimes identify the engine type by specific visual features of the engine itself, such as valve covers or camshaft layout, but this requires familiarity with the model and engine variants
- Window sticker or build sheet (for some brands like Ford): The original window sticker or a build sheet can list the engine size and type. Ford also provides customer support to help identify engine specs if you provide your VIN
In summary, the easiest and most accurate approach is to enter your VIN into a trusted online VIN decoder or contact your vehicle's manufacturer with the VIN to get the exact engine details of your car
