How to Decode a Dodge VIN to Identify Your Engine Type
If you own a Dodge vehicle and want to know more about what’s under the hood, your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) holds the key. The VIN is a unique 17-character code assigned to every vehicle, containing crucial details such as its make, model, year, place of manufacture, and most importantly—its engine type.
Understanding how to decode a Dodge VIN can help you verify engine displacement, horsepower, and other important specifications, whether you’re buying a used Dodge, ordering replacement parts, or simply curious about your vehicle’s history. In this guide, we’ll break down the process of decoding a Dodge VIN to identify your engine type accurately.
Where to Find the Dodge VIN
Before you can start decoding, you need to locate your vehicle’s VIN. In most Dodge vehicles, you can find the VIN in the following places:
- Dashboard: Look through the windshield on the driver’s side; the VIN is often on a metal plate near the base.
- Driver’s Side Door Jamb: Open the driver’s door and check the sticker or metal plate on the inside frame.
- Engine Bay: Some Dodge models have the VIN stamped onto the engine block or firewall.
- Vehicle Registration and Insurance Documents: If you can’t find the VIN on your vehicle, you can also check your title, registration, or insurance paperwork.
Once you have your VIN, you’re ready to decode it and identify your Dodge engine.
Breaking Down the 17-Digit Dodge VIN
A VIN consists of 17 alphanumeric characters, and each section of the VIN provides different details about the vehicle. Let’s break it down step by step:
1. World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI) – First Three Digits
These first three characters identify the manufacturer and the country of origin. For Dodge vehicles, common WMIs include:
- 1B3: Dodge passenger cars
- 1C3: Chrysler models (some Dodge vehicles fall under this)
- 2B3: Dodge vehicles manufactured in Canada
- 3D3: Dodge vehicles made in Mexico
2. Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS) – Digits 4 to 8
This section provides details about the vehicle’s model, body style, engine type, and restraint system. The eighth digit specifically identifies the engine type, which is the key to determining your Dodge’s engine specifications.
3. Check Digit – 9th Digit
This digit is used for verification purposes and doesn’t directly relate to the engine type.
4. Model Year Identifier – 10th Digit
The 10th character represents the model year of the vehicle. For example:
- A = 1980, B = 1981, … Y = 2000
- 1 = 2001, 2 = 2002, … 9 = 2009
- A = 2010, B = 2011, … L = 2020
This helps you confirm that the engine information aligns with the correct production year.
5. Assembly Plant Code – 11th Digit
This digit shows where the vehicle was built, but it’s not directly relevant to engine identification.
6. Vehicle Serial Number (VIS) – Digits 12 to 17
The last six characters serve as a unique identifier for your specific vehicle, typically including production sequence numbers.
Decoding the 8th Digit: Identifying Your Dodge Engine
The eighth character of the VIN is the most crucial when determining your Dodge’s engine type. Each letter or number corresponds to a specific engine model, displacement, and often its horsepower rating. Here’s a general guide to some Dodge engine codes:
| 8th Digit | Engine Type | Displacement | Horsepower (HP) |
| A | 2.0L DOHC 16V | 2.0L | 150 |
| B | 2.2L SOHC Turbo | 2.2L | 174 |
| C | 3.5L V6 SOHC | 3.5L | 250 |
| D | 5.7L HEMI V8 | 5.7L | 370 |
| E | 6.1L HEMI V8 | 6.1L | 425 |
| F | 6.4L HEMI V8 | 6.4L | 485 |
| F | 6.4L HEMI V8 | 6.4L | 485 |
| G | 2.4L DOHC 16V | 2.4L | 173 |
| H | 5.9L Magnum V8 | 5.9L | 245 |
| J | 2.7L V6 DOHC | 2.7L | 200 |
| K | 3.7L PowerTech V6 | 3.7L | 210 |
| L | 5.2L Magnum V8 | 5.2L | 230 |
| M | 2.5L Turbo Diesel | 2.5L | 107 |
| N | 8.3L V10 SRT | 8.3L | 500 |
| P | 3.9L Magnum V6 | 3.9L | 175 |
| R | 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8 | 6.2L | 707 |
Note that engine codes may vary slightly depending on the model and production year.
Using a Dodge Engine VIN Decoder
If manually decoding your VIN seems overwhelming, you can use an online Dodge engine VIN decoder to make the process easier. Many VIN decoding tools allow you to enter your VIN and instantly retrieve details about your engine, transmission, and other specifications.
A VIN decoder Dodge tool can also help confirm whether the engine in your vehicle is original or if it has been swapped. This is especially useful when buying a used car or verifying the authenticity of classic Dodge models.
Why Decoding Your Dodge VIN is Important
Decoding your Dodge VIN is more than just an interesting exercise—it’s a practical way to access essential information about your vehicle. Here’s why it matters:
✅ Confirm Engine Specifications – Knowing your engine type helps when ordering replacement parts or performing maintenance.
✅ Verify Vehicle Authenticity – When purchasing a used Dodge, decoding the VIN ensures the engine matches factory specifications.
✅ Assess Performance and Towing Capacity – Understanding horsepower and displacement helps determine your vehicle’s capabilities.
✅ Assist with Insurance and Registration – Some insurance providers and DMV offices require detailed vehicle information, which can be retrieved using the VIN.
Final Thoughts
Decoding a Dodge VIN to identify your engine type is a valuable skill for any Dodge owner or enthusiast. By focusing on the eighth digit of your VIN, you can determine your engine’s displacement, horsepower, and other important specifications. Whether you do it manually or use an online VIN decoder, this information can help you make informed decisions about repairs, upgrades, and purchases.
If you’re looking to verify your Dodge’s engine details, grab your VIN and start decoding today!