An OEM number is the shortest and least error-prone way to look up a spare part. A search by make, model and year usually returns several near-identical variants; the right OEM reference points at exactly one part.
Where Is the OEM Number Printed?
The most reliable source is the removed part itself; on plastic clips and fasteners the number is usually moulded into the inner face of the body or under the head. If the part is too worn to read, service records, a previous invoice or the original packaging are the second source.
Number Formats and Common Mistakes
OEM numbers are written differently by each manufacturer: some separate groups with spaces, some with hyphens, and in some the leading zeros matter. Stripping spaces and hyphens and searching on letters and digits alone removes most matching failures.
The second common mistake is a number the manufacturer has since superseded. The old number still appears in catalogues but has been replaced by a new reference, so it is worth searching both.
One Part Can Carry Several OEM Numbers
The same clip or fastener is listed under different numbers by brands that share a platform. The flanged wheel bolt in our catalogue carries Citroën, DS, Fiat and Opel references together; the chrome wheel nut matches Hyundai, Kia, Mazda and Toyota numbers.
So if the number you hold returns nothing on the first search, trying the number used by the vehicle’s platform siblings often works.
Matching Without an OEM Number
When the number is unreadable, three measurements are usually enough: shaft diameter, head diameter and the depth of the mounting hole. Add the make, model and production year and the match becomes near certain. A sharp photo of the removed part next to a ruler carries as much information as the measurements, especially where clip geometry is involved.
Searching by OEM in the MTJ Catalogue
Most products in our catalogue carry an OEM reference, and the site search covers those numbers too — typing the number into the search box is enough. If nothing comes back, send us the number together with your measurements or vehicle details and we will do the matching.
