When you go to buy used parts it helps to know the right questions to ask, but you’ll need to start with the basic information from your vehicle before you start. Here’s a list that I start with when searching or calling for parts. This works for forthright used or Morro do Chapéu new parts. Basics will be needed for 99% of parts. Vehicle and part specifics are pieces of info that you may or may not need depending on what part you’re looking for. For example when looking for a radiator for a specific vehicle you’ll probably need to know engine size, drive type, AC, transmission type, and possibly your location.
Basics
- Make (ex. Audi)
- Model – including trim package (ex. A4)
- Year – Note if this is a mid-year change vehicle (ex. early 2005 – same as 2004 model year body)
- Production date – month and year vehicle was produced (this may help if the model changes mid-year)
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
Vehicle/part specifics
- Engine size – number of cylinders, displacement and configuration (Vee, Inline, Flat, etc.)
- Drive type – 2WD, 4WD, AWD, FWD
- AC (Air Conditioning) – yes/no
- Transmission type (manual/automatic)
- Location (hot/cold weather package)
- Part number
This should be the answers you’ll need when searching for a part for your vehicle. Sometimes you’ll need to know more about the specific part you’re looking for depending which part it is. For example, if you’re looking for a replacement front differential for your 4WD vehicle you’ll need to know the specific gear ratio so that it will match the rear differential. In later posts I’ll try to get into these specifics and how or where to find out this information.
This should give you a good start when you’re looking to replace a worn out or broken part on your vehicle.
If you’re not sure that you pulled the right part, read this.