1. Locate the VIN: The VIN is a unique 17-digit code that can be found in various locations on the vehicle, such as the dashboard, driver's side door pillar, or engine compartment.
2. Decode the VIN: Each section of the VIN represents specific information about the vehicle. To identify the engine type, you need to focus on the 5th and 8th digits:
- 5th Digit: This digit represents the engine code. Different manufacturers use different engine codes, so you'll need to refer to the specific manufacturer's guidelines to determine if the code corresponds to a big block or small engine.
- 8th Digit: This digit represents the model year. If you know the model year of the car, you can research the typical engine options available for that specific year and model, helping you determine if it's a big block or small engine.
By utilizing both the 5th and 8th digits of the VIN, you can gather information about the engine type and narrow down whether it's a big block or small engine. However, if the VIN decoding proves unclear or insufficient, it's advisable to consult the vehicle's official documentation, such as the owner's manual or specifications provided by the manufacturer, for definitive information about the engine.