Find the plate. It reads: E-JZS133W-MDEZF Step 2: Go to a part catalog (like Partsouq or Amayama). Step 3: Enter the code into the "Model" search bar, not the VIN search bar. Step 4: The system returns: JZS133W, 1JZ-GE Engine, Wagon, Automatic, Right-Hand Drive. Step 5: Browse the diagrams. The water pump for a 1JZ-GE is different from the 2JZ-GE. Without the Katashiki, you might buy the wrong pump.
If you have ever ordered parts for a Toyota, you may have noticed that the VIN is sometimes insufficient to guarantee the correct part. Instead, Toyota uses a specialized, highly organized, and efficient coding system known as the (product type code).
Example Core Code: A E 8 6 │ │ └─── Chassis Generation & Variant │ └───── Platform Family (E = Corolla) └─────── Engine Family (A = 4A-GE Series) 1. Engine Family Designator (First Characters)
Indicates the engine series installed from the factory. Example: 2JZ GE engine -> JZ A80 (Supra) Example: 4A -GE engine -> AE 101 (Corolla) Example: 1HD -FTE engine -> HDJ 100 (Land Cruiser)
A Toyota Katashiki code is an alphanumeric string that might look like ZWE211L-DWXNBW or ZRT271L-AEFEPW . This seemingly random string is a structured code where each character represents a specific vehicle attribute. toyota katashiki code
: Look for a white or silver "Manufacturer's Plate" on the B-pillar (the frame visible when you open the driver's side door) .
is a production model designation code. Thousands of vehicles rolling off the assembly line with the exact same specifications will share the identical Katashiki code. Where to Find the Katashiki Code
Australasian market (Australia / New Zealand specification)
For casual drivers, the Katashiki code is a hidden detail. But for enthusiasts, parts suppliers, and mechanics, it is an indispensable tool for several reasons: Find the plate
The word Katashiki (型式) translates directly from Japanese as , "type" , or "formula" .
: It is often listed in official vehicle registration paperwork or service history logs provided by Toyota UK or local dealers . How to Decode the Katashiki
Understanding the code is most useful for the following applications:
= GL / GLI / G Grade X = XL / X Grade V = VX / Grand Touring 5th Letter Engine Specification / Induction Step 4: The system returns: JZS133W, 1JZ-GE Engine,
The suffix characters detail the exact trim, steering position, transmission type, and regional destination. This sequence usually contains 5 to 7 letters. Each position has a specific meaning: What it Represents Common Examples Steering Wheel Position / Market L = Left-Hand Drive (LHD) R = Right-Hand Drive (RHD) 2nd Letter Body Type / Door Count
Here is the breakdown of each segment:
To see how this works in practice, let's decode two legendary Toyota vehicles. Example 1: The Modern Workhorse (Hilux Revo) GUN125R-DTTLXW