How To Use VIN To Determine the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Parts

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are specifically designed to fit and work with a particular vehicle. They are necessary for appropriate vehicle maintenance and repair because they guarantee the highest quality fit and function, thus ensuring peak performance and longevity. Using parts specifically designed for your car can also preserve its resale value, unlike aftermarket parts, which may not meet the same quality and compatibility standards.

A vehicle identification number (VIN) helps to identify OEM parts because it is, essentially, a car's fingerprint, which identifies the car's make, model, year, and other features. Using the VIN to identify OEM parts ensures that only compatible parts are ordered and installed, preventing potential issues with fit or functionality when replacing vehicle components.

Read on to learn how to find an OEM part number by VIN.

VIN and OEM Parts

The VIN is a unique 17-character code that identifies a vehicle. It can be used to:

• Check for recalls
• Track registrations
• Process warranty claims
• Track thefts
• Determine insurance coverage
• Learn about the car's history
• Schedule a service
• Order parts

When choosing parts for vehicle repair and maintenance, you may choose either OEM parts or aftermarket parts. While OEM parts are made by the same company that manufactured the vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit because they are designed specifically for the car model, aftermarket parts are produced by third-party companies. They are often designed to fit multiple vehicle makes and models, potentially resulting in varied quality and fit compared to OEM parts. Aftermarket parts are usually cheaper than OEM parts.

Locating Your Vehicle's VIN

The VIN can be found on a small metal plate on the dashboard, a sticker on the driver's side doorjamb, a window sticker, the title, or the registration. If you cannot locate it, check your owner's manual or use an online VIN check tool provided by your vehicle's manufacturer or government agencies.

Decoding the VIN to Identify Manufacturer Details

The 17-character VIN provides the following information about the vehicle:

• Country of origin: The first character represents where the car was built
• Manufacturer: The second character represents the manufacturer
• Vehicle type: The third character represents the type of vehicle
• Model year: The tenth character represents the model year
• Plant name: The eleventh character represents the plant that assembled the car
• Serial number: The last six characters represent the vehicle's production number

A VIN helps identify OEM parts specific to the vehicle by detailing its make, model, year, and particular features, allowing a supplier to accurately match replacement parts to the original factory equipment based on the unique vehicle details encoded in the VIN.

The World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI)

The first three characters of a VIN represent the World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI), which is used to identify the vehicle's manufacturer and country of origin, as follows:

• 1st character: Represents the country where the car was built.
• 2nd character: Represents the manufacturer.
• 3rd character: Combined with the first two, identifies the specific division or type of vehicle.

Vehicle Attributes and Model Information

The next 4 to 8 characters in the VIN make up the vehicle descriptor section of this unique identifier. This section contains information about the vehicle's model, body style, engine type, and other details, directly impacting which OEM parts are needed. The 10th character in the VIN represents the vehicle's model year, which helps ensure parts are compatible with that year's specific design and features.

Using VIN to Access OEM Parts Catalogs

Accessing OEM parts catalogs using a VIN is straightforward, allowing you to find an OEM number by VIN. Go to the manufacturer's website or other dedicated online parts platform and enter your vehicle's VIN. The system should automatically pull up the correct parts catalog specific to your car's model and configuration, allowing you to browse and identify the parts you need based on your vehicle's unique details. Having the correct VIN ensures you have access to the most accurate part available for your vehicle's continued performance and longevity.

How To Cross-Reference VIN with OEM Parts Numbers

To cross-reference a VIN with OEM numbers, you can use online VIN decoders on manufacturer websites or third-party platforms. The process is as simple as entering your VIN and then accessing the detailed vehicle information, which includes corresponding OEM part numbers for specific components. Most vehicle manufacturers provide VIN lookup tools on their websites allowing users to find the exact parts needed based on their vehicle's unique identification number.

Benefits of Using VIN for OEM Parts Identification

Finding the right auto parts by VIN offers significant benefits to vehicle owners, including:

• Precision compatibility and error reduction
• Inventory efficiency and optimization
• Warranty compliance

Limitations and Considerations When Using VIN for OEM Parts

While a VIN is a powerful tool for identifying the correct OEM parts for a vehicle, its limitations lie in not capturing all vehicle details, particularly optional equipment or accessories added after manufacturing. Therefore, it may not always provide the most precise information for specific parts needed, especially if they were added later at the dealership or aftermarket level. It is always advisable to verify part numbers and consult a professional when necessary.

Ensuring Accuracy with VIN-Based OEM Parts Identification

Using your car's VIN to identify and order OEM parts is the best way to ensure a perfect fit, optimal performance, and long-term durability. By decoding the VIN, you can gain access to critical details about your vehicle, including its make, model, and unique specifications. This can help avoid any compatibility issues associated with using aftermarket parts.

While VIN-based OEM part identification is a highly accurate process, it is important to always cross-reference OEM part numbers and consult manufacturer's resources, as well as industry professionals, especially when custom modifications or optional add-ons exist. By using your vehicle's VIN to identify the right OEM part, you can be confident that you are taking the proper steps to maintain the integrity of the vehicle, its performance, and its retail value.