Who makes Fords parts?
Most of Ford's parts come from a global network of external suppliers, with Ford Motor Company itself assembling and certifying components as well. In practice, parts are produced by Ford and by a broad array of Tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers that design, weld, mold, and assemble subsystems used in Ford vehicles.
Understanding who makes Ford's parts helps explain vehicle pricing, maintenance, and the reliability of modern cars, as well as the way Ford manages quality, recalls, and warranties across markets.
How Ford's supply chain is structured
Ford organizes procurement through a tiered supplier network. Tier 1 suppliers deliver complete subsystems; Tier 2 supply components to Tier 1; Tier 3 provide raw materials and subcomponents. Ford also maintains in-house production for certain parts at its own plants and through joint ventures or contract manufacturers. The result is a sprawling, global network spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond.
Before listing the main supplier categories, note that the system is designed to balance cost, quality, and lead times, with Ford applying strict supplier performance standards and regular audits to ensure reliability and recall readiness.
The following categories cover the major sources of Ford parts in the supply chain:
- Engines, transmissions, and other powertrain components supplied by Tier 1 partners or produced in Ford's own plants.
- Chassis, braking, steering, and suspension subsystems delivered by Tier 1 suppliers that specialize in these systems.
- Electrical, electronic control units, wiring, dashboards, and software modules provided by large electronics-focused Tier 1 firms.
- Interior components such as seats, trim, and instrument panels sourced from specialized seating and interior suppliers.
- Exterior components, body panels, lighting, and related assemblies produced by external manufacturers and sometimes by Ford's own plants.
- Infotainment, connectivity, sensors, and telematics modules supplied by firms that specialize in vehicle communications and user interfaces.
- Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers that provide raw materials, subassemblies, and specialized components used by Tier 1 suppliers to build finished parts.
In summary, Ford's parts originate from both in-house production and a vast, global network of external suppliers, all coordinated to maintain quality and meet production timelines.
Ford Parts for customers and service
When consumers replace parts through Ford’s official channels, the parts come from the same OEM network, routed through Ford-approved dealers and distributors. This ensures compatibility and adherence to Ford’s quality and warranty standards for maintenance and repairs.
Summary
Ford relies on a diversified, global supply chain that blends in-house manufacturing with a broad ecosystem of Tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers. This structure supports the production of new vehicles, the availability of genuine replacement parts, and ongoing service across markets worldwide, while enabling Ford to manage cost, quality, and reliability for its customers.
Does Mazda still use Ford parts?
No, Mazda does not still use Ford parts because the two companies' partnership ended completely by 2015. Ford began selling off its shares in Mazda in 2008 after the global financial crisis, and by 2015, Mazda was fully independent again. This means that vehicles made after this period, such as the third-generation Mazda3 (2014-2018), no longer share platforms or major joint ventures with Ford.
- Partnership breakdown: The partnership between Mazda and Ford, which started in the 1970s, ended as Ford sold off its stake from 2008 to 2015.
- Independent development: With full independence, Mazda has focused on its own designs and engineering, launching its 'Kodo' design language and developing its own unique vehicles.
- Legacy models: While older models, particularly those made before 2015, did share platforms or components with Ford vehicles, modern Mazdas are built independently. For example, the NC generation of the MX-5 Miata (2006-2015) included several parts from Ford, such as a belt tensioner from a Ford Focus and a water pump from a Ford Ranger, but newer models do not.
Who manufactures parts for Ford?
Motorcraft manufactures various parts for several different car companies, including Ford. In fact, Motorcraft is the official parts brand of Ford and has been since its inception in the 1950s.
Are Motorcraft and Ford parts the same?
Motorcraft parts and "Ford" or "Genuine Ford Parts" are essentially the same, as Motorcraft is a division of Ford Motor Company that provides both Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts and high-quality aftermarket parts for Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles. The distinction often comes down to the specific part's branding, with some high-demand or specialized parts being marketed exclusively as "Ford Genuine Parts" while others are branded "Motorcraft". Both options are backed by Ford and are recommended for their quality, reliability, and fit.
Motorcraft
- A division of Ford: Created to provide both the parts that come in new vehicles (OEM) and a wider range of replacement parts.
- Premium quality: Marketed as a premium brand for replacement parts, recommended by Ford Motor Company.
- Warranty: Motorcraft parts typically come with a 24-month, unlimited mileage warranty, which can include labor for certain parts.
- Widely available: Often found in service departments and online, including a variety of consumables and filters.
Genuine Ford Parts
- OEM parts: These are the exact parts that are installed in new vehicles from the factory.
- Engineered for fit: Designed to meet Ford's exact specifications for optimal performance, reliability, and a perfect fit.
- Backed by Ford: They offer the assurance of being officially backed and endorsed by Ford.
Are Ford OEM parts made in China?
Although it remains an American car brand, many parts are not exclusively manufactured in the country. The automaker also produces and markets vehicles overseas. Some plants manufacture Ford parts in countries like Mexico, Canada, and China.
