Whether you're restoring an AE86, fixing a Skyline or keeping an MX-5 on the road, the quickest way to get the right part is to know its genuine part number. With the number, a part can be checked, priced and bought anywhere in the world, including Japan, where many discontinued parts are still sitting on shelves.
Step 1: Find your frame (chassis) number
Japanese-market cars don't use a 17-digit VIN. They use a frame number made up of the model code and a serial, for example AE86-0123456 or BNR32-012345. You'll find it:
- stamped on the firewall or strut tower
- on the Japanese export certificate or de-registration paper
- on the compliance or import plate on many imported cars.
Australian-delivered cars usually have a VIN plus a model code. The model code (for example HJ61, NC1, S15) narrows the catalogue down.
Step 2: Use an online parts catalogue (EPC)
Online electronic parts catalogues let you enter a frame number or model and browse exploded diagrams by section: engine, body, interior, electrical and so on. Click the part on the diagram and you'll get its genuine number, often with the production date range it applies to.
Tips:
- Choose the Japanese market catalogue if you have a JDM car. Parts can differ from the export versions.
- Check production date splits. Many parts changed mid-model.
- Note any left/right or colour code suffixes for trim parts.
Step 3: Understand the number format
| Make | Typical format | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota / Lexus | 5 digits – 5 characters | 75370-60020 |
| Nissan | 5 characters – 5 characters | Group number, then variant |
| Honda | 5 digits – 3 characters – 3 characters | Group, model, variant |
| Mazda / Subaru | Varies by make and model | Copy exactly as shown |
Always copy numbers exactly, including dashes and letters. A single wrong character can mean a different part.
Step 4: Check for supersessions
Manufacturers regularly replace old numbers with new ones when a part is updated. The catalogue may list the original number while the dealer system only recognises the newer one. For example, our LandCruiser 60 Series emblems are 75370-60020, which supersedes 75370-90A02. Searching the old number alone can make a part look discontinued when it isn't.
Step 5: Check availability in Japan
Once you have the number:
- New genuine parts: Japanese dealer networks and genuine parts suppliers can often supply parts that are discontinued in Australia.
- New old stock and used parts: Japanese auction and marketplace sites list huge numbers of original parts. See how to buy from Yahoo! Auctions, Mercari and Monotaro.
What to send us
If you'd like us to source the part in Japan, send us:
- the part number(s) and quantity
- your frame number or model code and build date
- a photo of the old part, if you have it.
We'll check availability and price, buy it in Japan and ship it to you in Australia or New Zealand. See how our Japan sourcing service works.
Examples of parts we've sourced
- Genuine Mazda MX-5 NC 6-speed shifter repair kit, plus our shifter fix guide with the part numbers
- Genuine Spoon Sports oil filler cap
- Commonly worn Skyline, AE86 and Supra parts. See our guide to buying genuine JDM parts.
FAQ
Is a Japanese-market part the same as the Australian one?
Often, but not always. Right-hand-drive parts usually match, but emissions, lighting and trim can differ. Matching the part number is the safest check.
I can't find the number. Can you still help?
Yes. Send clear photos and your frame number and we'll do our best to identify it.