What is a Car Parts Number?

car parts number

Car Parts Number

Most parts have a code etched or written into them during manufacturing or in some cases on the actual car part itself. This code is used to conduct a spare parts search. If you have this car part number or can get a picture of it (as it might be illegible due to age and use, dirt or just plain wear) you can do an online spare parts search at most reputable parts stores. This will show you a list of available parts and a list of parts with similar fitment.

The first three or more characters of the part number identify which vehicle type it was designed for (either the engine, transmission or body style variation). In most cases these are used to restrict the number to only that specific model. However, some parts are intended to be fitted to several vehicles and therefore the part number doesn’t necessarily imply which vehicle it is meant for. The last set of numbers are the part subgroup number and often these contain hyphens to separate 3 digit groups. The last digit indicates what side of the car the part is for (even = right, odd is left).

Some parts have further identification marks such as a service or casting number. These are usually used when the part is being produced during manufacturing and are not intended for replacement or aftermarket applications. These identification marks are normally not included in the standard part number and can be confusing.