What Is an OEM Part Number? How to Find It for Your Chinese EV

Short answer: an OEM part number is the reference code the vehicle manufacturer gives to a specific part. Quoting it is the most reliable way to get the right part for a Chinese EV, because many models use different parts for different years, trims and markets. You can usually find it on the old part's label, on dealer invoices, or in the dealer's parts catalogue using your VIN.

Last updated: 30 September 2026.

What "OEM part number" means

OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. The OEM part number identifies one exact part as the carmaker designed it: its shape, connectors, software version and fitment. Two parts that look identical can carry different numbers because one belongs to a facelift model, a different trim or a different market.

Aftermarket suppliers use the same number to show which original part their product replaces. That is why a single OEM number lets you compare genuine and aftermarket options side by side.

Why it matters more on Chinese EVs

• Fast model updates. Chinese EV makers update their cars often: facelifts, mid-year hardware changes and new trims. A part for an early-production car may not fit a later one, even under the same model name.
• China-market vs export versions. Cars sold in China and cars exported to other markets can differ. A clear example is the charging socket: China uses the GB/T standard, while European versions use CCS2.
• Electronics paired with software. Screens, cameras, radar units and control modules often need the exact hardware revision to work with the car's software.

Ordering by name alone ("front radar" or "charging port") leaves room for error. Ordering by OEM number removes most of it.

Five places to find the OEM number

1. On the part itself

Most parts carry the number on a printed label or sticker, moulded into the plastic, or stamped into metal. Electronic modules usually have a label with the part number, a barcode and sometimes a hardware and software version. Clean the area gently and take a clear photo in good light.

2. On the original packaging

If you kept the box from a previous replacement, the label on it normally shows the part number.

3. On invoices and service records

Dealer and workshop invoices usually list the part numbers used in a repair or service. Check your service history before removing anything.

4. In the dealer parts catalogue (EPC)

Dealers and many workshops use the manufacturer's electronic parts catalogue, which looks up the correct part from your VIN. A workshop can often read it for you in a few minutes.

5. Ask your supplier

If you cannot find the number, send your VIN plus clear photos of the part, its label and its connectors. That is usually enough to identify the correct part.

What the number looks like

Formats vary by manufacturer. Some numbers are digits only, some mix letters and digits, and some include a supplier or version code. Copy it exactly, including dashes and letters, and do not confuse it with a barcode, serial number or date code printed nearby.

Superseded part numbers

Manufacturers sometimes revise a part and give the new version a new number. The old number is then "superseded" by the new one. Both still point to the same position on the car, and a good supplier cross-references them for you. If the number on your old part is not found, the part may simply have been superseded.

OEM vs aftermarket: which should you choose?

• OEM parts are the carmaker's original specification and the safest choice for safety systems, high-voltage components and software-paired electronics.
• Aftermarket parts are made by other manufacturers to fit and are often good value for routine items such as filters, wipers and brake components.

Either way, the OEM number is how you confirm the part matches your car.

Using the OEM number on EV Crate

• Search by number: the search page accepts part names and OEM numbers.
• Browse your model: model pages show OEM numbers where available. Start from the full list of brands and models.
• Check your car first: decode your VIN with the VIN tool on the homepage.
• Still stuck? Send your VIN and photos by WhatsApp (+371 278 49361), WeChat (+86 177 7587 0528) or email (evcrate@globaltradehubltd.com), or use "Request a Part" on the homepage.

Checklist before you order

• Brand, model and model year
• VIN (17 characters)
• OEM part number, copied exactly
• Photos of the part, its label and connectors
• Trim or version (for example EV or range extender, standard or long range)
• Left-hand or right-hand drive

Frequently asked questions

Is the OEM part number the same as the VIN? No. The VIN identifies your car; the OEM part number identifies one part. The VIN helps find the correct part number.

Can two different OEM numbers fit the same car? Yes. A part may have been superseded by a newer number, or the car may accept more than one variant. Your supplier should confirm this before you order.

Can I order without the OEM number? Yes. Send your VIN and clear photos of the part and its label, and the correct part can usually be identified. See also how long delivery takes.