Comparison
TecDoc vs year-make-model fitment apps.
Two ways to add vehicle fitment to a Shopify parts store. Here is how they differ, and when each one makes sense.
Side by side
| Criterion | Year-make-model apps | Mecaparts (TecDoc) |
|---|---|---|
| Source of fitment data | Spreadsheets you write, import and maintain | Your TecDoc licence |
| Vehicle identification | Year, make, model (sometimes engine) | Make–model–engine (KType), VIN, KBA |
| Precision | As precise as the data you enter | Engine code, power and build years |
| OE & cross-references | Usually not included | Searchable in your store |
| Product content | Written by you | Criteria, images and PDFs from TecDoc |
| Updates | Manual, for every new vehicle or part | Follows TecDoc |
| Best market fit | North America (ACES/PIES data) | Europe and TecDoc-covered markets |
| Extra cost | Data preparation time | A TecDoc licence |
When a year-make-model app is enough
- You sell mostly universal parts or accessories with few vehicle-specific fits.
- Your market is North America and your suppliers deliver ACES/PIES data.
- Your catalogue is small and rarely changes.
When TecDoc is the better choice
- You sell vehicle-specific parts in Europe, where TecDoc is the reference.
- Your catalogue has thousands of parts and keeps growing.
- Your buyers search by VIN, by KBA (Germany) or by OE number.
- Returns caused by wrong fitment are costing you money.
Switching from a year-make-model app
- 01
Keep your article numbers
Export your product list with brand and article numbers, prices and stock.
- 02
Import into Mecaparts
Each article is matched to TecDoc and gets its fitment automatically — no fitment file to migrate.
- 03
Swap the finder
Replace the old vehicle selector with the Mecaparts finder in your theme, then uninstall the old app.
Questions about switching.
Q.01Can I keep my existing products?
Yes. Mecaparts matches your existing article numbers to TecDoc and adds fitment to them; your prices and stock stay yours.
Q.02Do I need both apps?
No. Mecaparts includes the vehicle finder, the fitment on product pages and the catalogue tools.
Q.03Is TecDoc only for Europe?
TecDoc is the reference of the European aftermarket and also covers other markets. Coverage depends on the brands and vehicles in your licence.