Manufacturer part numbers (MPNs) are often compact. Small suffixes can mean a revision, a coating, a packaging change, or a different supplier code.
What to look for
- Base number: The core reference shared across compatible applications.
- Suffixes: Often at the end (e.g. A, B, /12, -V) indicating a version.
- Prefixes: Can denote brand families, lines, or plant codes.
- Batch codes: Usually separate (print/label) and rarely part of the MPN.
Practical tips
- Match the exact MPN to your vehicle (year/model/engine).
- When in doubt, compare both old and new numbers side by side.
- Supersessions happen — if a number changed, the new one usually replaces the old one.