What do the letters mean in Ford part numbers?
If you're a car enthusiast or a DIY mechanic, you've likely encountered Ford part numbers on various components of your vehicle. These alphanumeric codes can seem cryptic at first, but they actually contain valuable information about the part's specifications and origins. In this article, we'll dive into the meaning behind the letters in Ford part numbers, helping you better understand your vehicle's inner workings.
Understanding the Ford Part Number Structure
Ford part numbers typically follow a standardized format, consisting of a combination of letters and numbers. The letters in these codes often represent specific information about the part, such as its function, material, or manufacturing process. By deciphering the meaning behind these letters, you can gain a deeper understanding of the part and its role in your Ford vehicle.
Common Letter Codes in Ford Part Numbers
- A - Indicates the part is an accessory or aftermarket component
- B - Denotes a brake-related part
- C - Signifies a chassis or suspension component
- E - Represents an electrical or electronic part
- F - Indicates a fuel system component
- H - Denotes a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) part
- M - Signifies a powertrain or engine-related component
- P - Represents a part related to the powertrain or engine
- S - Denotes a steering or suspension component
- T - Indicates a transmission-related part
These are just a few examples of the common letter codes used in Ford part numbers. The specific meaning of each letter can vary depending on the context and the particular Ford model or component.
Decoding Ford Part Numbers in Practice
Let's take a look at an example Ford part number: F8AZ-6C315-AA. Breaking this down:
- F8AZ - The first four characters indicate the part's model year and engineering change level. In this case, "F8" represents the 2008 model year, and "AZ" represents a specific engineering change.
- 6C315 - The next five characters represent the part's unique identification number, which is used to track the part's specifications and manufacturing details.
- AA - The final two characters indicate the part's revision level, which is used to track any changes or updates made to the part over time.
By understanding the meaning behind the letters and numbers in this Ford part number, you can gain valuable insights into the part's function, origin, and any relevant changes or updates that have been made to it.
Applying Your Knowledge
Knowing how to interpret Ford part numbers can be incredibly useful when ordering replacement parts, troubleshooting issues, or simply understanding the inner workings of your Ford vehicle. By familiarizing yourself with the common letter codes and the overall structure of these part numbers, you can become a more informed and empowered car owner or mechanic.
What does the first letter in Ford part number mean?
The 1st digit of the Prefix is the decade, for example: A = 1940s, B = 1950s, C =1960s, D = 1970s, etc. 2. The 2nd digit of the Prefix is the year within the decade, for example: 1 = 1st year, 2 = 2nd year, etc.
How do I decode my Ford serial number?
Each Section of a Ford Vehicle Identification Number
- First Character: Indicates the country of the manufacturer. 1, 4, 5: United States. 2: Canada.
- Second Character: Identifies the manufacturer. For Ford, this is typically “F”
- Third Character: Specifies the vehicle type or manufacturing division. A: passenger car. B: bus.
What is the code to my Ford?
You will need the original five-digit keyless entry code. You can find it printed on the owner's wallet card in the glove compartment or through one of the other methods here.
How do I identify my Ford parts?
How Do I Find a Part Number?
- Check your Owner's Manual. You can find part numbers for some components such as battery, spark plugs, or windshield wiper blades, in your Owner's Manual under Capacities and Specifications > Motorcraft Parts.
- Visit the Ford Parts website.
- Check with your Ford Dealer.
What do Ford order codes mean?
Ford has a range of codes: 1-9: Ford assigns. 10-19: Customer orders. 20-80: Dealer stock. 99: “Do Not Build”
What is the OEM part number?
Every OEM auto part has a unique identification number, similar to an ID card. 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.
What family is the 385 engine in?
The Ford 385 engine family (also called "Lima") is a series of "big block" overhead valve (OHV) V8 engines designed and manufactured by Ford Motor Company. The family derives its 385 name from the 3.85-inch (98 mm) stroke of the 460 cubic-inch V8 introduced in 1968.
How do you decode a Ford part number?
How To Interpret Ford Part Numbers
- First Digit: Decade – C5ZZ5560D.
- Second Digit: Year within the decade – C5ZZ5560D.
- Third Digit: Model – C5ZZ5560D.
- Fourth Digit: Design Engineering Office – C5ZZ5560D.
- Still using Service Part Number C5ZZ5560D.
- The Suffix denotes the change level – C5ZZ5560D.
How do you decode a serial number?
Serial Number Format
The MFG date code starts at the fifth digit and follows the MFG date code “YYWW”. The last five digits “xxxxx” is the sequential number. Other “o” digits are manufacturing and control codes.
How do you decode Ford Casting numbers?
A = 1940s, B = 1950s, C = 1960s, D = 1970s, E = 1980s, F = 1990s. The second digit will be a numeral, and will represent the year within that decade (i.e. C2 = 1962; E7 = 1987). The third digit is usually another letter, but can also be a numeral in rare cases, and it signifies the vehicle the part was designed for.
