Ford Engine Code by VIN: 8th Digit Chart for F-150

The 8th character of the VIN is the engine code on Ford cars, SUVs and light trucks. On a 2022 F-150, for example, a 5 in that position means the 5.0L V8, a P means the 2.7L EcoBoost and a G or 8 means the 3.5L EcoBoost.

That one character also tells you whether a Super Duty is a gas truck or a Power Stroke diesel, before you pay a diesel premium.

Every code in this guide comes from NHTSA's vPIC database, which holds Ford's own VIN filings. We queried it directly in October 2026. For any specific vehicle, the fastest route is our Ford VIN decoder, which returns the engine along with the model, plant and recalls.

Which digit of a Ford VIN is the engine?

Count to the 8th character. In the VIN 1FTFW1E51NF100001, it is 5, the 5.0L V8.

The full position-by-position explanation is in our guide on how to read a VIN. GM uses the same 8th position; see the Chevy engine code by VIN chart.

Common Ford engine codes (2020s)

Several of Ford's recent models share these 8th-character codes, but always read the code with the model and model year. D, for example, is the 2.3L EcoBoost on a 2022 Mustang and the 3.5L hybrid on a 2022 F-150. These codes are what vPIC returns for 2022–2024 models:

For the Mustang, vPIC lists D or H for the 2.3L EcoBoost, F or 0 for the 5.0L V8 and J (or Z on 2020 models) for the 5.2L V8, as shown on our Ford VIN decoder page.

F-150 engine codes by generation

F-150 codes changed with each generation, so match the model year (10th character) first.

2004–2008 (example: 2008 F-150)

2011–2014 (example: 2013 F-150)

2018–2020 (example: 2019 F-150)

2021–2024 (examples: 2022 and 2024 F-150)

The F-150 Lightning is electric. Its VIN uses separate 8th-character codes for the battery and motor configuration, which our decoder shows as a battery electric vehicle.

Super Duty engine codes (F-250, F-350)

1999–2003 Super Duty

2005 Super Duty (2003–2007 generation)

2017–2019 Super Duty

2023-and-later Super Duty

The 8th character is the first thing to check on a Super Duty listed as a "Power Stroke". Badges are not VIN evidence, so decode the full VIN.

Explorer, Bronco, Expedition, Escape, Ranger and Maverick

These are the codes vPIC returns for the model years shown. We include only engines Ford offered in each one; always decode with the complete VIN and the correct model year.

Other model years and plug-in hybrid versions can use different codes. If the 8th character is not on this list, decode the full VIN.

How to check the engine on a used Ford

1. Read the VIN from the truck, not from the listing. Use the windshield plate or the door-jamb label. Our VIN location guide shows where to look.
2. Find the 8th character and match it to the chart for that model year (10th character).
3. Decode the full VIN with our Ford VIN decoder to confirm the engine, drive type and plant in one step.
4. Look at the engine itself. Engine covers and badges can be swapped. Inspect the engine and ask for service records, and have a Ford dealer or qualified technician confirm it if in doubt.
5. Ask about a replacement. A replacement engine may affect emissions compliance, warranty coverage and resale, so check your state rules and the warranty terms, and ask for the paperwork.
6. Get the original options. The engine is in the VIN, but packages such as Max Trailer Tow are not. Try Ford's free lookup for the original window sticker by VIN. Availability varies by vehicle; contact Ford or a Ford dealer if the lookup has nothing.
7. Check recalls. Our decoder lists NHTSA recalls for the model and year. Then run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup to see open recalls on that exact truck.