Dictionairy
Welcome to our Automotive Independent Aftermarket (IAM) Dictionary—your quick reference guide to the terminology, abbreviations, and key concepts used throughout the automotive aftermarket. Whether you’re new to the industry or expanding your knowledge, this dictionary will help you get up to speed quickly. Like every industry, the automotive aftermarket has its own language, and understanding these terms is essential for effective communication and business success. This dictionary is a living document that will be continuously updated as new terms and industry developments emerge. Our goal is to keep it IAM-focused, practical, and concise, providing clear definitions that are easy to understand and relevant to professionals across the automotive aftermarket.
| Phrase | Explanation | Type |
| Accessories | Aftermarket automotive accessories provide practical and styling upgrades, including floor mats, roof racks, seat covers, lighting, and interior enhancements. | Products |
| ACES | Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard – Standard for communicating vehicle fitment data. | IAM cronyms |
| ACES | ACES is the North American standard for exchanging automotive vehicle fitment data between manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. (Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard) | Industry data standards |
| ADAS | ADAS components including cameras, sensors, radars, and calibration parts supporting advanced driver assistance systems. | Common product categories |
| Aftermarket | Aftermarket-The market for replacement parts, accessories, and services used after a vehicle has been sold. | Common used search terms |
| AGM battery | An AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery is a maintenance-free automotive battery designed for start-stop vehicles and high electrical loads, offering superior durability, fast charging, and long service life. | Product |
| AM | Aftermarket – Replacement parts and accessories sold after a vehicle is manufactured. | IAM cronyms |
| API Integration | Connect automotive ERP, DMS, PIM, CRM, inventory, pricing, and eCommerce platforms through secure API integrations for seamless data exchange and business automation. | Digital terms |
| Application Data | Application data maps automotive parts to compatible vehicles, engines, and model variants for part selection. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Auto parts | Auto parts-Replacement components used to repair or maintain a vehicle after the original part has worn out or failed. Spare parts – Replacement parts-Auto parts all mean the same. | Common used search terms |
| Auto Parts Store | An auto parts store is a retail business that sells automotive replacement parts, accessories, and maintenance products, serving both DIY customers and professional repair shops / garages. | Distribution channels |
| Automotive Aftermarket | The automotive aftermarket is the industry that provides all products and services for vehicles after they are sold by the original manufacturer. It covers maintenance, repair, replacement parts, accessories, upgrades, and related services throughout a vehicle’s lifetime. | Market segments |
| Availability Feed | Deliver real-time automotive parts availability across warehouses and distribution centers, enabling dealers, workshops, and customers to order with confidence. | Digital terms |
| B2B | Automotive B2B refers to the sale and distribution of automotive parts, components, and services between businesses, such as manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, and repair workshops. | Distribution channels |
| B2B Ordering | Business-to-business ordering with a platform that enables dealers, distributors, workshops, garages,and wholesalers to place, track, and manage orders efficiently. | Digital terms |
| B2B parts | B2B parts – Automotive parts sold through business-to-business channels, including manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, and workshops. | Common used search terms |
| B2B2C | Automotive B2B2C is a business model where manufacturers or distributors supply automotive parts through retailers, workshops, or online platforms that sell directly to the end customer, connecting the automotive supply chain with consumers. | Distribution channels |
| Back Order | A back order occurs when an automotive part is temporarily out of stock and will be supplied once inventory is replenished. | Commercial terminology |
| Batteries | Automotive batteries for engine starting, electrical performance, and start-stop vehicle systems. | Common product categories |
| Bits and briks | Bits and Briks combines the convenience of online shopping with the trusted service of a local automotive retail store, creating a seamless omnichannel buying experience | Distribution channels |
| Body parts | Replacement body parts including bumpers, mirrors, fenders, doors, grilles, and exterior vehicle panels. | Common product categories |
| Body Shop | A professional auto body shop providing accident repars like dent removal, paintwork, scratch repairs, panel replacement, and vehicle refinishing. | Service providers |
| Braking | Braking components like brake pads, discs, calipers, and hydraulics like hoses, cylinders. | Common product categories |
| BrandAAIAID | BrandAAIAID is a unique industry identifier assigned to automotive brands for standardized cataloging and product data exchange. Maintained by the Autocare association. | Industry data standards |
| Buying Group | An Automotive IAM Buying Group is an organization that brings together independent automotive parts distributors and retailers to increase purchasing power, negotiate better supplier terms, and improve access to aftermarket parts and services. | Distribution channels |
| Captive parts | Automotive captive parts are proprietary vehicle articles designed and manufactured exclusively for a specific automotive brand or model. These products are only produced by OEM’s, there are no aftermarket alternatives. | Market segments |
| Car Parc | Car parc is the total population of registered vehicles in operation in a specific market or region. | Commercial terminology |
| Car parts | Car parts-Replacement components used to repair or maintain a vehicle after the original part has worn out or failed. Spare parts – Replacement parts-Auto parts all mean the same. | Common used search terms |
| Category manager | A Category Manager manages a group of automotive products, optimizing assortment, pricing, promotions, and supplier performance to maximize sales and profitability. | IAM organisation |
| Chemicals | Automotive chemicals including cleaners, additives, sealants, adhesives, and maintenance products. | Common product categories |
| Clutch | Clutch kits, flywheels, release bearings, and hydraulic components for power transmission | Common product categories |
| Collision Repair Center | A professional collision repair center providing accident repars like dent removal, paintwork, scratch repairs, panel replacement, and vehicle refinishing. | Service providers |
| Commercial Vehicle Operator | Commercial vehicle operators manage trucks, buses, vans, and other business vehicles, ensuring reliable transportation, regulatory compliance, and efficient fleet performance. | Customer types |
| Commercial vehicles | Commercial vehicles include trucks, vans, buses, and other business-use vehicles designed for transporting goods or passengers. | Market segments |
| Compatibility | Compatibility data confirms whether an automotive part fits a specific vehicle or matches another equivalent component. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Consumables | Automotive consumables including engine oils, lubricants, coolants, brake fluid, additives, and workshop supplies. | Products |
| Cooling | Radiators, water pumps, thermostats, fans, and cooling system components | Common product categories |
| Core Charge | A core charge is a refundable deposit paid when purchasing remanufactured automotive parts, returned upon exchanging the old component. | Commercial terminology |
| Cross Number | A cross number links equivalent part numbers from different manufacturers, enabling accurate replacement part identification. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Cross Reference | Cross-reference data matches equivalent automotive parts across different manufacturers, brands, and OEM numbers. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Cross reference | Cross reference-A method of matching equivalent part numbers across different manufacturers, brands, or suppliers. Most common is o.e number cross within the o.e. supersession. | Common used search terms |
| Dealer | Automotive dealers sell genuine vehicles, parts, and accessories while providing warranty, maintenance, repair, and customer support through authorized service networks. | Customer types |
| DIFM (Do-It-For-Me) | DIFM customers rely on professional service providers to install, repair, or maintain automotive parts, | Customer types |
| Digital Catalog | A digital catalog delivers real-time product information, specifications, pricing, and availability, making it easy to browse and purchase automotive parts online. | Digital terms |
| Digital pure player | A digital-first business that sells automotive products or services exclusively online. | Distribution channels |
| Distribution Order Management (DOM) | Optimize automotive parts fulfillment by intelligently routing orders to the best warehouse or distributor based on inventory availability, price, location, and delivery timelines. | Digital terms |
| Distributor | Distributor – A company that purchases automotive parts from manufacturers and supplies wholesalers, retailers, or workshops. | Common used search terms |
| DIY (Do-It-Yourself) | DIY customers purchase automotive parts and accessories to repair, maintain, or upgrade their own vehicles | Customer types |
| Driveline | Driveshafts, CV joints, axles, and driveline components for power transfer to the wheels | Common product categories |
| E-Catalog | An e-catalog is a digital parts catalog that helps users search, identify, and order automotive products with accurate fitment and technical information. | Digital terms |
| E-catalog | Parts catalog-A frontend (user interface) with a searchable database containing automotive parts, fitment information, specifications, and part numbers. Same as a parts catalog | Common used search terms |
| E-commerce Parts Retailer | An e-commerce parts retailer sells automotive parts, accessories, and maintenance products through online platforms, marketplaces and websites. | Distribution channels |
| EFB accu | An EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) is an upgraded lead-acid battery designed for entry-level start-stop vehicles, providing improved cycling performance and longer life than conventional batteries. | Product |
| Electrical | Automotive electrical components including alternators, starters, relays, switches, and wiring solutions. | Common product categories |
| Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC) | A electronic parts catalog supported by a digital search engine helps users find the correct automotive parts by vehicle, category, brand, name or part number. Often supported with technical information and other services | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Engine Management | Engine management sensors, ECUs, and fuel / ignition system components | Common product categories |
| EPC | Electronic Parts Catalog – Digital catalog used to identify vehicle parts by model or VIN. | IAM cronyms |
| Exhaust | Exhaust systems, catalytic converters, mufflers, and emission control components. | Common product categories |
| Fill Rate | Fill rate measures the percentage of customer orders fulfilled immediately from available automotive parts inventory. | Commercial terminology |
| Filtration | Air, oil, fuel, and cabin filters | Common product categories |
| First-Time Fit | First-time fit refers to automotive parts installed during original vehicle manufacturing as original equipment (OE). | Commercial terminology |
| Fitment | Fitment-The compatibility of a specific part with a particular vehicle based on make, model, engine, or VIN. | Common used search terms |
| Fitment Data | Fitment data ensures automotive parts match the correct vehicle applications based on technical compatibility. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Fitment Database | A fitment database maps automotive parts to compatible vehicles, ensuring accurate part selection and installation. | Industry data standards |
| Fleet maintenance | Fleet maintenance – The planned servicing, inspection, and repair of multiple commercial or company vehicles. | Common used search terms |
| Fleet Maintenance Provider | A fleet maintenance provider delivering preventive maintenance, repairs, inspections, and fleet management services to keep commercial / leasing vehicles on the road. | Service providers |
| Fleet Operator | Fleet operators manage multiple vehicles for business operations, focusing on vehicle maintenance, parts availability, uptime, and cost-efficient fleet management. | Customer types |
| Fluids | Essential automotive fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid. | Common product categories |
| GAP | Products | |
| GAP tooling | Identify missing vehicle applications, fitment data, and product coverage gaps to improve automotive parts catalogs, increase sales opportunities, and enhance customer experience. | Digital terms |
| Garage | Garage-A facility where vehicles are inspected, serviced, maintained, and repaired by automotive technicians. Workshop-Garage-Repair shop all mean the same. | Common used search terms |
| Garage concept | A garage concept is a branded network of independent automotive workshops that share standardized services, technical expertise, training, and marketing while maintaining independent ownership. | Distribution channels |
| Garage concept | A Garage concept is a branded network of independent garages that provides members with technical support, training, marketing, purchasing benefits, and business services while maintaining independent ownership. | IAM organisation |
| Gel battery | A Gel battery is a sealed lead-acid battery that uses a gel electrolyte, offering excellent vibration resistance, deep-cycle performance, and maintenance-free operation for automotive and specialty applications. | Product |
| Genuine Parts | Genuine parts are original components supplied or approved by the vehicle manufacturer. Designed to factory specifications. | Market segments |
| HVAC | Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning components. | Common product categories |
| IAM | Independent Aftermarket – Companies selling automotive parts outside vehicle manufacturers’ networks. | IAM cronyms |
| IAM (Independent Aftermarket) | The automotive IAM (Independent Aftermarket) is the ecosystem of companies that manufacture, distribute, sell, and install automotive replacement parts and services outside the vehicle manufacturer’s (OEM) authorized dealer network. | Market segments |
| Ignition | Ignition parts including spark plugs, ignition coils, and ignition leads | Common product categories |
| Independent Aftermarket | The Independent Aftermarket (IAM) is the part of the automotive aftermarket that operates independently of vehicle manufacturers (OEMs) and their authorized dealer networks. It provides replacement parts, maintenance, repair, diagnostics, and related services for vehicles throughout their service life. | Market segments |
| Independent Distributor | An automotive IAM (Independent Aftermarket) distributor sources and supplies aftermarket parts from multiple manufacturers to retailers, workshops, and wholesalers. | Distribution channels |
| Independent garage | A vehicle repair business that operates independently from vehicle manufacturers and dealer networks. | Common used search terms |
| Independent Garage (Independent Repair Shop) | An independent garage providing vehicle servicing, repairs, diagnostics, MOTs, and maintenance for all makes and models. | Service providers |
| Independent Workshop | Independent workshops are non-dealership automotive repair businesses that provide maintenance, diagnostics, and repair services | Customer types |
| Installed Base | The installed base represents vehicles or automotive components currently in use, driving aftermarket parts and service demand. | Commercial terminology |
| Interchange | Parts interchange data identifies compatible replacement parts that can be used across multiple vehicle applications and brands. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Inventory optimization | Inventory optimization is the process of maintaining the right balance of automotive parts inventory to maximize product availability, reduce stockouts and excess stock, and improve supply chain efficiency and profitability. | IAM organisation |
| Inventory Synchronization | Synchronize automotive parts inventory across ERP systems, warehouses, distributors, dealerships, and eCommerce platforms with ( real-time) stock updates and accurate availability. | Digital terms |
| Jobber | A jobber is a local automotive parts distributor that supplies repair shops, garages, and service centers with aftermarket and replacement parts. Jobbers provide fast delivery, technical support, and access to a wide range of automotive components. | Distribution channels |
| K-type | K-type is TecDoc’s unique vehicle identifier, used across Europe to accurately match automotive parts to specific vehicle configurations. | Industry data standards |
| Last mile | Last-mile logistics is the final and most expensive stage of automotive parts distribution, delivering products from a distribution center or local warehouse to workshops, retailers, or end customers. | Logistics |
| Last mile routing optimization | Last-mile routing optimization is the process of planning the most efficient delivery routes for automotive parts, reducing delivery times, fuel costs, and transportation expenses while improving service levels and on-time deliveries. | Logistics |
| Lighting | Automotive lighting products including headlights, bulbs, LED lights, tail lamps, and signal lights | Common product categories |
| Lighttruck | Light trucks are versatile vehicles such as pickup trucks, cargo vans, and small utility trucks used for commercial and personal transportation. | Market segments |
| Long life maintenance | Long-life maintenance is a vehicle service strategy that uses extended service intervals based on manufacturer specifications, high-quality replacement parts, and long-life engine oils to reduce maintenance costs while maintaining optimal vehicle performance. However, due to increasing concerns about internal engine carbon buildup associated with extended service intervals, many vehicle owners are choosing to follow a standard maintenance schedule with more frequent servicing. | Product |
| Lubricants | Engine oils, transmission oils, greases, coolants and lubricants that protect components. | Common product categories |
| Marketplace | An online marketplace is a digital platform where multiple sellers offer automotive parts, accessories, and vehicle products in one place. It connects buyers with a wide selection of replacement parts across brands, suppliers, and price ranges. | Distribution channels |
| Milk run | Milk run is a logistics strategy where a single vehicle follows a fixed route to deliver automotive parts and collect returns to multiple workshops, this can be up to 8 times a day. | Logistics |
| Mobile Mechanic | A mobile mechanic providing on-site vehicle diagnostics, servicing, repairs, battery replacement, and emergency roadside assistance at your location. | Service providers |
| N-type | N-type is TecDoc’s commercial vehicle identifier, used to accurately classify trucks, buses, and other heavy-duty vehicle applications. | Industry data standards |
| OE (Original Equipment) | Original Equipment (OE) refers to the genuine parts and components installed in a vehicle during factory assembly. OE parts are manufactured to the original specifications. | Market segments |
| OE Number | An OE number is the original equipment manufacturer’s reference number used to identify genuine automotive parts. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| OEM | Original Equipment Manufacturer – Company that manufactures parts supplied to vehicle manufacturers. | IAM cronyms |
| OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) | An OEM is a company that manufactures original equipment and components to exact factory specifications for automotive and industrial applications. OEM manifactures the finished vehicle, like VAG, BMW, etc. | Market segments |
| OES | Original Equipment Supplier – Supplier that produces OE parts and also sells equivalent parts to the aftermarket. | IAM cronyms |
| OES (Original Equipment Supplier) | A company that manufactures parts or components supplied directly to vehicle or equipment manufacturers, producing items that match the original specifications and quality standards used in factory assembly. Like Bosch, Valeo, etc. | Market segments |
| Online lead generation | Get instant repair and maintenance estimates , make an appointment and find nearby automotive workshops for reliable service. | Digital terms |
| Order Management systems (OMS) | Streamline automotive order processing with an Order Management System (OMS) that manages parts orders, inventory allocation, shipping, returns, and customer communications across all sales channels. | Digital terms |
| Part Number | A part number is the unique identifier assigned to an automotive component for accurate identification and ordering. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Parts Catalog | A parts catalog supported by a digital search engine helps users find the correct automotive parts by vehicle, category, brand, name or part number. Often supported with technical information and other services | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Parts catalog | Parts catalog-A frontend (user interface) with a searchable database containing automotive parts, fitment information, specifications, and part numbers. Same as an E-catalog | Common used search terms |
| Parts Distributor | A parts distributor sources and supplies automotive parts from multiple manufacturers to wholesalers, retailers, and repair shops. They help ensure broad product availability, reliable delivery, and access to replacement parts across vehicle brands. | Distribution channels |
| Parts Lookup | Identify the right automotive parts using VRM, VIN, vehicle make, model, or part number for accurate ordering and reduced returns. | Digital terms |
| Passenger car | Passenger cars are vehicles designed primarily for personal transportation, including sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and coupes. | Market segments |
| PCdb (Product Classification Database) | PCdb is a standardized product classification database that organizes automotive parts into consistent product categories. Maintaned by Auto Care supporting PIES | Industry data standards |
| PIES | Product Information Exchange Standard – Standard for exchanging product attributes, descriptions, and digital assets. | IAM cronyms |
| Pizza run | Pizza run is a last-mile delivery strategy in the automotive aftermarket where one vehicle delivers ad hoc on direct demand to one or several workshops or customers. High cost & low efficiency but the highest service level possible for the workshop. You order, we drive direct. | Logistics |
| PR code | PR code – A VAG manufacturer-specific model code used to identify a vehicle’s factory-installed equipment and determine the correct replacement parts. | Common used search terms |
| Price File | Maintain accurate automotive parts pricing with centralized price files that support customer-specific pricing, distributor discounts, promotions, and multi-channel sales. | Digital terms |
| Private Label Parts | Private label parts are aftermarket products manufactured by third-party suppliers and sold under a distributor’s or retailer’s brand. | Market segments |
| Product manager | A Product Manager oversees the lifecycle of automotive parts or product lines, managing product strategy, pricing, market positioning, and supplier relationships to meet customer and business needs. | IAM organisation |
| Professional Installer | Professional installers are certified technicians or repair specialists who install, diagnose, and service automotive parts for customers | Customer types |
| Punchout Catalog | Enable automotive B2B buyers to access your parts catalog directly from their procurement system with PunchOut Catalog integration, ensuring accurate pricing and seamless purchasing. | Digital terms |
| Quick Service / Fast Fit | A fast-fit automotive service center specializing in oil changes, tire fitting, brakes, batteries, and same-day vehicle maintenance. | Service providers |
| R&M | Repair & Maintenance – Services and replacement parts used to maintain or repair vehicles. Mostly connected with lease and fleet maintenance. | IAM cronyms |
| Rebuilt Parts | Rebuilt automotive parts are repaired by replacing only failed or worn components, restoring functionality while retaining reusable original parts. | Products |
| Reconditioned Parts | Very similar to Refurbished Parts. Reconditioned parts are cleaned, inspected, repaired as needed, and restored to a functional condition, but they are not necessarily rebuilt to original manufacturer specifications. | Products |
| Refurbished Parts | Very similar to Reconditioned Parts. Reconditioned parts are cleaned, inspected, repaired as needed, and restored to a functional condition, but they are not necessarily rebuilt to original manufacturer specifications. | Products |
| Reman | Often used acronym, stands for remanufactured parts. Remanufactured automotive parts are fully disassembled, inspected, and rebuilt to meet OEM specifications, replacing worn components and restoring like-new performance | Products |
| Remanufactured | Remanufactured – Remanufactured automotive parts are fully disassembled, inspected, and rebuilt to meet OEM specifications, replacing worn components and restoring like-new performance | Common used search terms |
| Remanufactured Parts | Remanufactured automotive parts are fully disassembled, inspected, and rebuilt to meet OEM specifications, replacing worn components and restoring like-new performance | Products |
| Repair shop | Repair shop-A facility where vehicles are inspected, serviced, maintained, and repaired by automotive technicians. Workshop-Garage-Repair shop all mean the same. | Common used search terms |
| Replacement parts | Replacement parts-Replacement components used to repair or maintain a vehicle after the original part has worn out or failed. Spare parts – Replacement parts-Auto parts all mean the same. | Common used search terms |
| Replacement Parts Market | The replacement parts market is the segment of the automotive industry focused on supplying parts that replace original vehicle components because of wear, damage, failure, or scheduled maintenance. | Market segments |
| Replenishment | Replenishment is the process of restocking automotive parts and inventory to maintain optimal stock levels and ensure product availability. | IAM organisation |
| Retail Chain | An automotive retail chain is a network of stores or garages that sells or mounts aftermarket and replacement auto parts, accessories, and vehicle maintenance products. | Distribution channels |
| Retail Customer | Retail customers purchase automotive parts, accessories, and services for personal vehicles through dealerships, retailers, or online automotive marketplaces. | Customer types |
| Returns (RMA) | A Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) is a process that allows customers to return defective, damaged, or incorrect products for repair, replacement, or refund after receiving approval from the manufacturer or supplier. | Commercial terminology |
| RMA | Return Merchandise Authorization – Process or authorization required for returning products | IAM cronyms |
| Sell-In | Sell-in is the buying of automotive parts | Commercial terminology |
| Sell-Out | Sell-out is the is the selling of automotive parts | Commercial terminology |
| Service Center (certified) | A certified automotive service center delivering scheduled maintenance, inspections, diagnostics, and manufacturer-recommended vehicle servicing. | Service providers |
| Service Lifecycle | The service lifecycle covers a vehicle’s maintenance, repairs, and parts replacement throughout its operational life. | Commercial terminology |
| Service parts | Service parts – Components routinely replaced during scheduled vehicle maintenance, including filters, spark plugs, belts, and fluids. | Common used search terms |
| SKU | A Stock Keeping Unit (SKU) is a unique identifier used to manage, track, and organize automotive parts inventory. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Spare Parts | Automotive spare parts for vehicle repairs, maintenance, and replacement across all makes and models. | Products |
| Spare parts | Spare parts-Replacement components used to repair or maintain a vehicle after the original part has worn out or failed. Spare parts – Replacement parts-Auto parts all mean the same. | Common used search terms |
| Start stop system | A Start-stop system automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it when driving resumes, reducing fuel consumption, emissions, and engine idling time. | Product |
| Steering | Steering systems and components such as tie rods, steering racks, and pumps. | Common product categories |
| Stock Availability | Stock availability indicates whether automotive parts are in inventory and ready for immediate delivery or collection. | Commercial terminology |
| Supersession | This is connected to the o.e. number. An OE number supersession is the process where an automotive manufacturer replaces an original equipment (OE) part number with a newer one. Supersession helps identify the latest valid OE number and ensures the correct replacement part is selected for vehicle repair and maintenance. | Digital terms |
| Suspension | Suspension components including shocks, struts, springs, and control arms. | Common product categories |
| TecDoc | TecDoc is the leading automotive aftermarket parts database, providing standardized vehicle fitment, product, and OE reference data. | Industry data standards |
| Technical data provider | Technical Data Provider – A company that collects, validates, and supplies standardized automotive technical information, such as vehicle specifications, repair procedures, diagnostics, maintenance schedules, and parts fitment data, to support aftermarket businesses, workshops, distributors, and software platforms. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Tire Center | A tire center specializing in tire sales, fitting, wheel alignment, balancing, puncture repairs, and seasonal tire services. | Service providers |
| Tires | Car, SUV, and commercial vehicle tires, winter, summer and all-season tires | Common product categories |
| Trade Portal | A trade portal provides dealers, distributors, and business customers with access to product catalogs, pricing, inventory, orders, and account management. | Digital terms |
| Transmission | Transmission parts and components for manual and automatic gearboxes, | Common product categories |
| Universal parts | Universal parts are those that do not have a specific vehicle fitment. As example a roof box, brake cleaner, snow chains etc. | Products |
| VCdb (Vehicle Configuration Database) | VCdb is the standardized vehicle database used by ACES to define vehicle applications, configurations, and fitment information. | Industry data standards |
| Vehicle Fitment | Vehicle fitment data identifies the correct parts compatible with specific vehicle makes, models, years, and engine variants. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Vehicle Parc | Vehicle parc data provides insights into the number, age, and distribution of vehicles operating within a specific market or region. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| Vehicle-in-Operation (VIO) | Vehicles-in-Operation (VIO) measures the number of registered vehicles actively operating within a specific market or region. | Commercial terminology |
| VIN | Vehicle Identification Number – Unique 17-character code identifying a specific vehicle. | IAM cronyms |
| VIN Decoder | A VIN decoder interprets a Vehicle Identification Number to reveal vehicle specifications, equipment, engine, and production details. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| VIN Lookup | VIN lookup identifies a vehicle and retrieves accurate parts, specifications, and fitment information using the Vehicle Identification Number. | Catalog and fitment terminology |
| VIN lookup | VIN lookup-A search process that uses a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to identify the correct vehicle and compatible parts. Can be with a external vin api request or VIN decoder. | Common used search terms |
| VIN service (api) | Catalog and fitment terminology | |
| VIO | Vehicles in Operation – Number of vehicles currently registered and in use in a region or market. | IAM cronyms |
| VRM | Vehicle Registration Mark – Vehicle license plate number used to identify a vehicle in some markets. | IAM cronyms |
| Warehouse Distributor (WD) | A Warehouse Distributor (WD) is a large-scale automotive aftermarket distributor that stocks and supplies replacement parts in bulk to jobbers, retailers, and repair shops. WDs ensure efficient inventory management, broad product availability, and fast regional distribution. | Distribution channels |
| Warranty Claim | A warranty claim is a request to repair, replace, or reimburse a defective product covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. It helps customers receive service for eligible products at no additional cost. | Commercial terminology |
| Wear parts | Components that naturally wear out through normal use, such as brake pads, clutches, wiper blades, and tires. | Common used search terms |
| White Box Parts | White box parts are unbranded or generic aftermarket automotive parts sold without a manufacturer’s brand name. They provide a cost-effective alternative for vehicle repair and maintenance while meeting standard replacement requirements. | Market segments |
| White label parts | Whitelabel parts are unbranded or generic aftermarket automotive parts sold without a manufacturer’s brand name. They provide a cost-effective alternative for vehicle repair and maintenance while meeting standard replacement requirements. | Market segments |
| Wholesale Distributor | A wholesale distributor purchases automotive parts in bulk from manufacturers and supplies them to retailers, workshops, and resellers. They play a key role in the automotive aftermarket supply chain by ensuring product availability and efficient distribution. | Distribution channels |
| Wholesaler | Wholesaler – A business that buys automotive parts in bulk and sells them to retailers, workshops, or distributors. Often used interchangeably with distributor, although distributors may represent manufacturers directly. | Common used search terms |
| Wipers | Wiper blades, arms, motors, and washer components | Common product categories |
| Workshop | Workshop-A facility where vehicles are inspected, serviced, maintained, and repaired by automotive technicians. Workshop-Garage-Repair shop all mean the same. | Common used search terms |
| Workshop concept | A workshop concept is a branded network of independent automotive workshops that share standardized services, technical expertise, training, and marketing while maintaining independent ownership. | Distribution channels |
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