Vehicle Diagostics: How To Find Engine Code

Identify two key codes to help buy the right parts at an auto store


By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine

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Identify the engine and model year codes

Auto parts stores always ask the year, make and model of your vehicle. But they also need to know which engine you have. Don’t know what’s under the hood or exactly what year it is? It’s all in the vehicle identification number (VIN). Find it in the lower corner of your windshield on the driver’s side.

In the series of numbers and letters, the tenth from the left denotes the model year and the eighth is the engine code. Just tell the store clerk those two characters and you're in business.