How do I find the OEM of my car?
As a car owner, understanding your vehicle's Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) can be incredibly useful. Whether you're looking to purchase replacement parts, verify the authenticity of components, or simply learn more about your car, identifying the OEM is a straightforward process. At Kevin's Autos, we’ve helped countless customers navigate this process, and in this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to find your car’s OEM.
What Is an OEM?
The term "OEM" stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. This refers to the company that originally manufactured the parts or components for your vehicle. For example, if you drive a Toyota, the OEM for most parts is Toyota itself, but some components may be produced by third-party manufacturers contracted by Toyota. Knowing the OEM ensures you’re getting parts that meet the exact specifications of your vehicle.
Steps to Identify Your Car's OEM
Finding the OEM of your car is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to identify it:
- Check Your Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual often contains information about the OEM. Look for sections that discuss parts, warranties, or maintenance recommendations.
- Inspect the Parts Directly: Many car parts have the OEM’s name or logo stamped on them. For example, brake pads, filters, and even tires often display the manufacturer’s branding.
- Look for the OEM Part Number: If you’re replacing a specific part, check the old part for an OEM part number. This number can be cross-referenced with the manufacturer’s database to confirm the OEM.
- Contact Your Dealership: Dealerships have access to detailed information about your car’s components. Provide them with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and they can help identify the OEM.
- Use Online Resources: Many websites allow you to search for OEM parts using your car’s make, model, and year. Be cautious to use reputable sources to avoid counterfeit parts.
Why Knowing Your OEM Matters
Understanding your car’s OEM is important for several reasons:
- Quality Assurance: OEM parts are designed to meet the exact specifications of your vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
- Warranty Compliance: Using OEM parts can help maintain your car’s warranty, as some warranties require the use of original parts.
- Resale Value: Cars with OEM parts often retain higher resale value compared to those with aftermarket components.
Final Thoughts
At Kevin’s Autos, we always recommend using OEM parts whenever possible to ensure the longevity and reliability of your vehicle. If you’re unsure about your car’s OEM or need help sourcing parts, feel free to reach out to us. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’re here to help you keep your car running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to find the OEM of a car?
How to Find the OEM Part Number for Your Car. Your first port of call when looking for a specific part's OEM number should be on the component itself. If you have it to hand, and as long as it's not physically damaged beyond recognition, you should be able to find the number somewhere on the part.
How do I know if a car part is OEM?
The easiest way to determine if a product is aftermarket or OEM is by the brand on the packaging. If the brand is the same as your car manufacturer, there's a good chance it's OEM. That includes brands owned by a parent company like MOPAR parts for Stellantis brands.
Who is the manufacturer of my car?
Take a look at the second spot on the VIN. That tells you who the manufacturer is. The 11th spot on the VIN tells you what plant your vehicle is from.
How do I find my OE tracking number?
If you went to optometry school in the US, you were most likely assigned an OE TRACKER number when you took the National Board Exams. If you don't know your OE TRACKER number, you can call ARBO at 866-869-6852 to find out what your number is and set up a username and password to access your account.
What is the OEM number on a car?
This OEM number is assigned by the original equipment manufacturer to precisely identify and differentiate specific parts . For example, the OEM part number 6L3Z-3280-B is suitable for the FORD F150 4WD model produced from 2004 to 2008.
Is AutoZone OEM?
AutoZone's 7,140 retail outlets as of August 26, 2023 throughout the United States, Mexico and Brazil stock a variety of aftermarket parts as well as some OEM parts.
How do I find the manufacturer of my car?
One of the easiest ways to determine a car's origin is by looking at the window sticker or Monroney label. This provides essential information about the vehicle, including its manufacturer, country of origin, engine specifications, and fuel economy ratings.
How do I find out my OE number?
Where can I find these numbers? Each original part is provided with the respective OE number. These are usually engraved or printed. Some parts are installed in the vehicle in such a way that the OE number can be read without dismantling, but there are also many parts that are not easily accessible or visible.
Do dealerships sell OEM parts?
Yes. The dealership is one of the best places to purchase auto parts. Most auto dealerships only sell standard OEM manufacturer parts. Best of all, they can use your VIN number to find the correct part for your car or truck.
How do I find the factory options of my car by VIN number?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website offers a free VIN decoder that reveals specs such as the factory it was made at, how many airbags it has, engine displacement, horsepower and more.
