CHASSIS-PARTS GLOSSARY
OE Number
Also called: OEM number, OEM part number, original part number, genuine part number, OE reference, OE code. A superseded number is one the vehicle maker has replaced with a newer number for the same position.
What it is
An OE number (original-equipment number) is the part number a vehicle manufacturer gives to a component fitted to its cars at the factory. It identifies one part design exactly, so buyers, distributors and aftermarket manufacturers use it as the common key when they order a replacement with the same dimensions, threads and mounting points. Aftermarket brands publish their own part numbers and cross-reference them to the OE numbers they replace. Searching by OE number is therefore the most reliable way to find a part that fits, especially across languages and markets where part names differ.
How it works
How an OE number is built
Each vehicle maker uses its own format; there is no industry-wide standard. Japanese and Korean makers often use two groups of five characters, while Honda uses three groups such as 53560-TLA-A01. The first group usually identifies the part family and the later groups the model and version.
Cross-referencing
Aftermarket manufacturers and parts catalogues map each of their part numbers to one or more OE numbers. Searching an OE number returns every replacement listed for it, and one aftermarket part can cover several OE numbers when the vehicle maker used the same design on different models.
Normalising the number
The same OE number is printed with spaces, dashes or no separators at all, for example 53560TLAA01 or 53560 TLA A01. Search tools compare numbers after removing the separators; SLOOPZONE displays them in upper case with dashes.
Frequently asked
What is the difference between an OE number and an OEM number?
In parts trading both usually mean the vehicle maker's own part number. Strictly, OE refers to the part fitted on the production line, while OEM names the company that made it, which may be a supplier rather than the car brand.
How do I find the OE number of a part?
Look it up in the vehicle maker's parts catalogue with the VIN or frame number, read it from a dealer invoice, or read it from the old part when it is stamped or labelled. An aftermarket number can also be cross-referenced back to its OE number.
Can I find an OE number from the chassis (VIN) number?
Yes. The VIN or frame number identifies the exact vehicle build, and the vehicle maker's parts catalogue lists the OE numbers fitted to that build. Dealers and catalogue services do this lookup; SLOOPZONE is searched by OE number, not by VIN.
What does it mean when an OE number is superseded?
The vehicle maker has replaced the old number with a new one, usually after a design or supplier change. The new number is used wherever the old one was unless the catalogue states a restriction, so a cross-reference should list both.
Why do left and right parts have different OE numbers?
Mirror-image parts, such as many tie rod ends, control arms and stabilizer links, are different designs for each side, so each side has its own number. Ordering by OE number avoids receiving two parts for the same side.
Does an aftermarket part listed for an OE number fit the same way?
It is made to fit and function in place of the part with that OE number: same mounting points, threads and geometry. Always check the cross-reference for the exact OE number and vehicle, because one OE number can map to several aftermarket parts and the reverse.
External references
Independent technical sources (in English) for further reading. SLOOPZONE is not affiliated with these publishers.
- Part number Wikipedia
- Original equipment manufacturer Wikipedia