Japanese automobile concern Mazda occupies one of the leading places among car brands, which are popular among motorists of our country. But, after a certain period of time, any driver will encounter a breakdown, which will require a replacement auto part.
How to choose spare parts for Mazda
When a Mazda car breaks down, replacing parts for it will affect the budget because of the expensive cost of the vehicle, compared to Russian car brands. Approach the choice of parts seriously, relying on some rules:
- First of all, look for original components, because you can meet a pleasant cost - a little more than the used option;
- before you make a purchase, make sure that the part is suitable for your car brand;
- study the information about your car, its features and available list of options, so that, in case you need a replacement, you can navigate and ask the right questions to the sellers;
- After purchase, keep all receipts and warranty cards, so you can avoid disputes.
How to choose a part by car make and model
Before buying a used part through an online store or a quality car service, you need to make sure that it is suitable. To do this you need to study the data on the make and model of the car. If the part is selected through the electronic catalog, you need to specify the following data:
- manufacturer;
- make and model of the car;
- modification data: engine displacement, type, transmission and which side is the steering wheel.
Then, the search will highlight the components with their diagrams. Remember, the more technically complex the car, the harder it is to find a replacement part.
How do I know my Mazda part number (code)?
Each part of any car brand has its own specific number or code that can help you when replacing them. It is interesting that the number of the original element, OEM and analogue are not the same. The necessary code is stamped by mechanical means on the part itself, cast or stamped.
If it is difficult to find the part, and it will require a thorough disassembly of the machine, it is better to use other methods that will help you make the right choice. Keep in mind that even if you find the part number and start searching online to buy it, you may not find the information you need. This happens in 2 cases:
- The car is too old and there has been a number change;
- A new model, and the parts for it just don't exist yet.
In this case, it is better to trust a specialist and go to a car service.
What can be found out with the help of VIN-code?
VIN is available for almost all car brands, except for right-hand drive Japanese cars, which use body number in such situations. With the help of special software on the data of VIN determine:
- engine information;
- gearbox type;
- Date of production of the car;
- type of equipment, etc.
The VIN data can be found in the registration documents and passport of the car or in the car purchase agreement. Sometimes the code is also put under the windshield, on the body and driver's side door or under the passenger seat.
Which parts are better: analog or original?
Motorists more often order original components when the car has been purchased relatively recently. If the car has already covered a lot of mileage, the original component may turn out to be close to the price of the car, which means that the purchase is unprofitable. Note that this type of component will be exactly matched to your car, but the price can be significantly higher than the analog. But manufacturers strictly monitor the quality of components, which is important.
Analogues are sometimes almost as good as the original auto parts, and are produced not only in China, but also in many other countries. Features of this type of parts:
- low price;
- may not fit during installation (gaps, holes, etc. will not match);
- no warranty;
- The quality can be good or bad - depending on your luck.
How can you distinguish genuine Mazda parts from their analogous parts?
The main differences between original auto part and analog auto part are:
- differences in packaging and label: the original has a code and a "Mazda Genuine Parts" mark;
- By serial number: the concern's web site has information on all parts and suppliers, so you can verify if the item in front of you is genuine or fake.
What is an OEM number?
The meaning of the OEM number confirms the originality of the auto part, because this number is applied to the factory components. Automotive concerns turn to factories to create original parts that are not produced in their own production. Then the manufacturer's supplier sells them, with the marking of the OEM number. The special thing about OEM parts is that they can be made from cheaper materials than the original parts shipped from the concern.