How to determine your engine code
Determine the engine code
Determining the engine code is essential for professional tuning of your vehicle. Here you can find out how and where to find it and why it is needed in the first place.
What is the engine code and why do you need it?
The engine code, also known as the engine identification number or engine type, is a four-digit combination of letters that precisely defines your engine. In this way, matching parts can be assigned exactly and you don't have to worry about compatibility. It is therefore important to know the engine code before ordering any parts. (Examples of VAG engine codes: DAZA; CCZA; DLBA.)
Unfortunately, not all manufacturers regulate this in the same way, so there are several ways to search for the engine code. Sometimes you can simply find it on the engine, in other cases you need a workshop to have the code determined using paid software. These are the ways to find the engine code:
Finding the engine code on the engine
The engine code letters and the consecutive engine number are always on the engine, although they are not necessarily visible to you, but are stamped into the block and are usually difficult to read. The code is therefore often written on a sticker (the vehicle data carrier), which is attached to the timing belt cover. Depending on the age of the car, however, the sticker may be illegible or completely lost. The code is also indicated on the engine control unit, but you won't be able to get to it without tinkering.
In the service booklet (especially for VAG models)
If you are lucky, you will find the engine code on a sticker in the service booklet or even on the sticker in the trunk of your vehicle. The VAG Group, in particular, provides the code there.
Rarely: In the vehicle registration document and in CoC papers
Although it is rare, the engine code is sometimes stated in the vehicle registration document under field D.2. You will find it in the chain of custody papers under item 21.
The safest option: Using the chassis number (VIN)
The engine code can also be determined using the chassis number (VIN), but you will need a paid program for this. It is therefore better to visit your trusted garage for this. The VIN is a 17-digit combination of numbers and letters that you can find in the vehicle registration document. It is the most reliable way to determine the engine code.
Not very reliable: Using the key number (HSN/TSN)
The key number can also be used to find out the code of your engine. However, this variant is not very reliable, which is why we would not recommend it.
Caution: Note that the engine code and engine number are not the same thing. While the code is a combination of letters and/or numbers, the engine number is a consecutive number. It is assigned to the engines during production and is important if other components have been fitted to an engine from a certain point in time that no longer fit older models with the same engine code.
