How to find the right used car part for your car.

Are you unsure about which part you need for your car? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

Whether you’re trying to fix a broken wing mirror or replace a cracked headlight, buying any used car parts online can be confusing. Luckily, with a few simple steps, you can easily identify the correct part yourself without a garage visit.

In our guide, we walk you through how to find the right second-hand part for your vehicle using just your phone, your vehicle’s registration number, and a few key details. It’s fast, free, and helpful for all UK drivers.

Table of Contents
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car parts at Scrap Local

Step 1: Start with your registration plate

The easiest way to identify the correct part for your car is to use your registration number.

At Scrap Local, we can match your reg to the exact make, model, trim, and year of your car.

This helps us rule out similar-looking parts that won’t fit properly.

Simply message us your car’s details via Facebook and we’ll do the rest.

 

Step 2: Check the Part Code or OEM Number

Most car parts have an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) number stamped on them and is the most accurate way to find parts.

Where you’ll find it:

  • On the back or underside of the part
  • On the packaging (if it’s a previous replacement)
  • In the service manual (rarely)

 

Tip: If you’re replacing an electrical part, double-check the part number, especially for things like the ECU, alternators, and sensors.

 

 

car parts from Scrap Local

Step 3: Take Clear Photos from multiple angles

If you’ve already removed the part or the damaged one, it’s still on the car; take a few clear photos.

We recommend:

  • A straight-on photo.
  • A close-up of any codes or markings.
  • A side angle to show depth or connectors.

 

This helps our parts team quickly identify what we’ve got in stock or find a match from one of our new vehicles.

used parts at Scrap Local

Step 4: Understanding the differences that matter

Some car parts may look identical, but they’re not.

These small differences will affect the part:

  • 3-door vs 5-door models
  • Facelift vs pre-facelift versions
  • Manual vs automatic gearboxes
  • Petrol vs diesel engines

 

If you’re in doubt, drop us a message and we’ll cross check it for you. It’s better to ask than order the wrong part!

 

Step 5: Check Out Our eBay or Facebook Listings

We list hundreds of quality used car parts on eBay, but not everything makes it online before it’s sold.

That’s why we also upload daily stock to Facebook.

Follow us to: 

  • See the parts we’ve just removed
  • Reserve them before they go live
  • Ask about parts you can’t find yet

 

We get new cars in every day, so it’s worth checking regularly.

powerhand taking apart cars
What to ask when messaging us about parts

Whether you’re replying to one of our TikTok videos or sending a message on Facebook, the more details you give us upfront, the quicker we can help.

If you’re not messaging about a specific listing, here’s what we’ll need from you:

Basic vehicle information:

  • make and model
  • year of registration
  • Body style
  • Fuel type and engine size
  • Colour code (Every car has an exact paint code)

 

Exterior part: 

  • Which side of the vehicle?
  • Manual or electric part?
  • Any sensors or features?

 

Interior part:

  • Fabric or leather?
  • Manual or electric seat?
  • What trim level or extras does the vehicle have?

 

The more information we have, the faster we can check our stock, avoiding delays or incorrect parts being sent.

Nobody wants to receive the wrong bumper, or shade of grey. Giving us the full details helps us get it right the first time!

mid land overlook
Final checks before buying

Before ordering your part, make sure to:

  • Confirm the year and engine size of your car.
  • Compare your part’s connector types or brackets.
  • Ask about warranty, returns, or condition.

 

Used doesn’t mean poor quality! Our parts are fully tested and come from low-mileage breakers.

 

Even if you’re not 100% sure, our team can help identify what you need.

Simply message us on facebook and we can confirm the part you need, we’ll check our stock and let you know if it’s the right one for you!

FAQs: Finding the right used car part
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