Commercial Imports – April 19, 2025
How to Identify the Right Replacement Part for Your Vehicle
No more guesswork — just the right part, first time.
If you’ve ever been halfway through a repair only to find the part doesn’t fit — you’re not alone.
When it comes to European trucks, buses, and passenger vehicles, even a few millimetres off can mean wasted time, delays, and a frustrated customer.
At Commercial Imports, we’ve been matching parts to vehicles for over four decades — and we’ve seen it all. From VIN mix-ups to mislabelled aftermarket units, here’s how to make sure you’re getting the right part every time.
1. Start with the VIN
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is your best friend. It’s like a fingerprint for the vehicle — unique and precise.
📍 You’ll usually find it:
- On the driver-side dashboard (visible through the windscreen)
- On the compliance plate
- On registration or logbook paperwork
🔎 Always double-check the VIN before ordering. It helps us cross-reference the exact spec and build of your vehicle.
2. Know the OE Number (Original Equipment Number)
This is the gold standard when matching parts.
The OE number is the specific code assigned to a part by the vehicle or component manufacturer (e.g. ZF, WABCO, Bosch).
If you have this, we can almost always guarantee a correct match.
🧾 Find it:
- On the old part itself (stamped or engraved)
- In the manufacturer’s parts catalogue
- Sometimes printed on invoices or service history
3. Take Clear Photos
When in doubt — snap it. A clear photo of the old part from a few angles can help us identify the:
- Mounting points
- Plugs or connectors
- Physical shape and dimensions
We’ve ID’d thousands of parts from photos alone — just don’t forget to include a ruler or something for scale.
4. Know Your Make, Model & Year
Seems obvious, but it’s surprising how many parts differ within a single model year — especially across European brands.
âś… Provide:
- Make & Model (e.g. Mercedes Actros, Iveco Eurocargo)
- Year of manufacture
- Engine type or capacity (if relevant)
- Body/Chassis type (e.g. tipper, coach, dual cab)
This helps us narrow it down fast — especially for commonly replaced parts like brake components, suspension kits, or turbos.
5. Let the Pros Handle It
Still unsure? Don’t stress — that’s what we’re here for.
At Commercial Imports, we manually verify parts every day for workshops, fleets, and owner-operators across Australia.
We’re not just order-takers — we know our stuff, and we’ll work with you to get it right the first time.
Final Tip
The more info you give, the quicker we can help.
When in doubt, send us:
- The VIN
- Any OE number
- A clear photo
- Your contact details
We’ll do the rest.
Need Help Finding a Part?
Get in touch with our expert team — we source Genuine, OEM, and quality Aftermarket parts across Europe’s biggest brands, with weekly shipments and hard-to-find stock at the ready.
📞 Let’s get you sorted.
Contact us today for fast, accurate service.
