Guides for parts professionals
Plain-English explainers on EPC catalogs, VINs, OEM parts and choosing the right tools.
What is an EPC (Electronic Parts Catalog)?
An EPC (Electronic Parts Catalog) is the manufacturer's own parts database. Learn what it contains, how VIN lookup works, and why it beats aftermarket cross-references.
Read guideHow to Read a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
A VIN is a 17-character code that identifies a vehicle exactly. Learn what each section means (WMI, VDS, VIS) and how EPCs use it to find the right parts.
Read guideOEM vs Aftermarket Parts: What's the Difference?
OEM, genuine, OE-quality and aftermarket parts are not the same thing. Understand the differences and how to identify the correct part either way using an EPC.
Read guideWhat is a Parts Supersession (and Why It Matters)
A supersession is when a manufacturer replaces one part number with another. Learn why supersession chains matter and how EPCs keep them current.
Read guideHow to Choose an Online Parts Catalog
Comparing online EPC platforms? Here are the criteria that matter: brand coverage, VIN accuracy, supersessions, pricing model, and device support.
Read guideEPC Catalogs for Chinese Car Brands: Chery, Geely, BYD, GWM
Chinese brands are growing fast worldwide. Learn where to find genuine parts catalogs for Chery, Geely, BYD, Great Wall/Haval and MG.
Read guideETKA Explained: The VW Group Parts Catalog
ETKA is the official electronic parts catalog for the VW Group — Volkswagen, Audi, Škoda, SEAT and more. Learn what it covers and how to access it online.
Read guideMobis EPC Explained: Hyundai, Kia & Genesis
Mobis EPC is the official parts catalog for Hyundai, Kia and Genesis. Learn what it covers and how to look up genuine Korean OEM parts online by VIN.
Read guideMicrocat Explained: Ford's Electronic Parts Catalog
Microcat is the EPC platform used by Ford and many other brands. Learn what Microcat is, what it covers, and how to access Ford parts data online.
Read guideHow to Find a Genuine Car Part Number
The reliable way to find a genuine OEM part number is by VIN through an EPC. Here is the step-by-step, and the mistakes that cause wrong-part returns.
Read guideVIN vs Chassis (Frame) Number: What's the Difference?
VIN and chassis/frame number are often confused. Learn the difference, where each appears, and which one EPCs use to identify parts.
Read guideEPC Catalogs for Electric Vehicles (Tesla, BYD & More)
EVs need different parts data: high-voltage modules, inverters and thermal systems. Learn how EPC catalogs cover electric vehicles like Tesla and BYD.
Read guideHow to Cut Wrong-Part Returns in Your Workshop
Wrong-part returns quietly eat workshop margin. Here are the practical causes and how VIN-accurate parts identification removes most of them.
Read guideOnline vs Installed EPC Software: Which Is Right for You?
Should you use browser-based EPC access or installed dealer software? Compare cost, updates, devices and brand coverage for your workshop.
Read guideAuto Parts Glossary: Key Terms Explained
A plain-English glossary of auto parts and catalog terms: EPC, VIN, OEM, supersession, OE-quality, WMI and more — for parts professionals and buyers.
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