Does Ford use GM parts?
Direct answer: Ford does not use GM-branded parts in its production vehicles, and each automaker maintains its own parts catalogs and supplier networks.
Across the auto industry, parts sourcing is a global and complex process. While brands compete for market share, they can share certain suppliers or rely on generic components, and there are occasional collaborations on non-core technologies. This article explores what that means for Ford and General Motors in everyday manufacturing and service.
How Ford and GM source parts
Automakers rely on a vast network of Tier 1 suppliers that assemble modules for multiple brands. Each brand assigns its own part numbers, warranties, and service documentation. While some components may come from the same supplier, they are usually not interchangeable as GM parts in a Ford catalog, and vice versa. Below is a snapshot of the dynamics at play.
Here are the main ways cross-brand overlap can occur in the auto industry.
- Shared Tier 1 suppliers: Some suppliers provide components to multiple automakers. The same physical part may appear in different brands, but under different part numbers and brand-specific warranties.
- Generic components and common architectures: Fasteners, sensors, electrical connectors, and other standards-based parts can be used across brands without being branded GM or Ford.
- Aftermarket and remanufactured parts: Service and replacement parts sold outside the official brand catalogs often cross brands in the sense that independent shops or aftermarket suppliers stock compatible parts.
- Non-core collaboration on technology: In areas such as software platforms, battery development, or other non-vehicle-assembly technologies, brands may collaborate, but this does not imply sharing GM-branded parts in Ford vehicles.
In practice, these factors mean there can be overlap at the supplier level and in generic components, but Ford vehicles are not built from GM-branded parts, and GM vehicles do not use Ford-branded parts in their official catalogs.
Notable exceptions and historical context
Industry observers note that cross-brand overlap is more common at the level of suppliers and generic components than as direct interchange of brand-specific parts. There have not been prominent, publicly disclosed programs in which Ford vehicles were manufactured with GM-branded parts, and Ford’s and GM’s official documentation maintains separate part numbers, warranty terms, and service procedures for their respective vehicles.
Two key ideas to keep in mind:
- Shared suppliers mean some components may be similar across brands, but each OEM preserves its own catalog and reputation controls.
- Non-vehicle collaborations in software, platforms, and R&D may occur, yet these do not equate to Ford using GM parts in its cars.
Ultimately, the arrangement reflects common industry practice: collaboration on efficiency and technology where it makes sense, while maintaining brand-specific parts ecosystems for manufacturing, service, and warranty purposes.
What customers should know
For consumers, the practical takeaway is that when you shop for Ford parts or GM parts, you’ll encounter distinct part numbers and dealers for each brand. If you’re seeking replacements or upgrades, it’s best to use the correct brand-specific parts or approved aftermarket equivalents designed for your vehicle.
Summary
In short, Ford does not use GM-branded parts in its vehicles, and GM does not use Ford-branded parts in its vehicles. The auto industry’s reality is a layered ecosystem: brand-specific catalogs and warranties coexist with shared suppliers, generic components, and selective collaborations on non-core technology. For most consumers, this means sticking to manufacturer-approved parts and service channels remains the safest path for reliability and warranty coverage.
Does Ford work with GM?
The Ford–GM 10-speed automatic transmission is part of a joint venture between Ford Motor Company and General Motors to design and engineer two transmissions: a longitudinal 10-speed transmission and a transverse 9-speed trans-axle.
What brand does Ford use for parts?
The main brands for Ford parts are Motorcraft and Ford Genuine Parts. Motorcraft is a competitively priced, high-quality brand recommended by Ford for its vehicles, while Ford Genuine Parts are designed to exact specifications for a perfect fit and finish. Ford also offers Omnicraft, which provides quality parts for non-Ford vehicles.
Motorcraft
- What it is: A high-quality, competitively priced brand recommended by Ford Motor Company.
- What it's for: All Ford vehicles.
- Warranty: Many parts include a 24-month, unlimited-mileage warranty.
Ford Genuine Parts
- What it is: Also known as Ford OEM parts, these are manufactured to precise specifications.
- What it's for: Primarily for Ford, Lincoln, and other major brands, ensuring a perfect fit for safety and reliability.
- Branding: May be labeled "Ford Genuine Parts" and are often manufactured by Motorcraft for sale through dealerships.
Omnicraft
- What it is: A newer brand from Ford offering premium parts for non-Ford/Lincoln vehicles.
- What it's for: Non-Ford vehicles, with products including filters, brake parts, and electrical components.
- Branding: Ford-backed parts designed for quality in other brands' vehicles.
Does GM own part of Ford?
Ford Motor Co.
(U.S.) owns Ford and Lincoln. General Motors (U.S.) owns Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC. Hummer is now a GMC sub-brand. GM has a formal partnership with Honda to co-develop EVs.
What brands use GM parts?
GM Brands: Chevrolet, GMC, Buick & Cadillac.
