How to Find the Right Part Number for Your European Car

The surest way to buy the right used part is to match its part number. Look for the number printed or stamped on your old part. If you can’t find one, send your VIN (vehicle identification number) to the seller so they can check fitment for you. Two cars of the same model and year can still need different parts, so the part number matters more than the model name.

Why the model name isn’t enough

European manufacturers change parts often within a single model. A facelift halfway through production, a different engine, an optional extra or a change of supplier can each mean a different part. For example, an Audi A4 B8 built in 2010 and one built in 2014 can take different headlights, and a BMW 3 Series headlight may differ between halogen and xenon versions.

Matching the part number avoids paying for a part that looks right but won’t fit or won’t talk to your car’s electronics.

Where to find the number on your old part

Most parts carry their number on a sticker, a printed label or a stamp moulded into the plastic or metal. Common places:

• Lights: on the back of the housing, often on a white or silver label
• Modules and ECUs: on the label on the casing, usually with a barcode
• Plastic trim and panels: moulded into the inside face
• Pumps, sensors and motors: on a metal tag or printed on the body

Take a clear photo of the label before you remove or throw away the old part. If the label is dirty, a little degreaser helps.

How part numbers look on popular European makes

BMW and MINI. Usually 11 digits, for example 61319250734. BMW often prints only the last seven digits on the part itself (9250734 in this example), so search with either. Browse our used BMW parts.

Audi, Volkswagen and Skoda. Letters and numbers, for example 8K0807113F, often written with spaces as 8K0 807 113 F. The first three characters usually identify the model family (8K is the Audi A4 B8). The letter at the end marks a revision. A different final letter can sometimes still fit, but always check before you buy. See our Audi and Volkswagen parts.

Mercedes-Benz. Starts with A followed by 10 digits, for example A2048201723. The three digits after the A often match the model series: 204 is the C-Class W204. Browse our used Mercedes-Benz parts.

Peugeot and Citroën. Often 10 digits, for example 9684934880.

No part number? Use your VIN

If the old part is missing, damaged or has no label, your VIN is the next best thing. It’s a 17-character code unique to your car. You’ll find it:

• on a plate at the base of the windscreen on the driver’s side, visible from outside
• on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame
• on your registration papers

Send us your VIN or rego with a photo of where the part goes, and we’ll check which parts fit your car.

Engine and transmission codes

For engines, gearboxes and many engine parts, the engine code matters more than the model. Examples are ALT and CAXA for VW Group engines, or N47 for BMW diesels. The code is usually stamped on the engine block or printed on a label on the engine cover. It may also be listed in your service book. Every ESP engine listing shows the engine code where we know it.

Finding your part on ESP

1. Type the part number into the search bar at the top of the site. It finds matching listings as you type.
2. Check the “Fits” and “Part also fits” details on the listing.
3. Not sure? Call us on 03 9967 4224 or use our Request a Part form. Not every part we hold is listed online yet.

Quick checklist before you buy

• Part number from the old part, or your VIN, ready
• Engine code for engine and drivetrain parts
• Left or right side confirmed (as you sit in the driver’s seat)
• Build year and any facelift noted
• Photo of the old part to compare

Not sure which part you need? Call 03 9967 4224 (Mon–Fri 8am–5pm), or send us your VIN and we’ll check it fits before you buy. All our used parts come with a 90-day parts warranty and Australia-wide delivery, or pickup from our yard in Pakenham. Shop used European car parts.