ACES, PIES & AI-powered Fitment Engines: Backbone of Auto Parts Aftermarket

The automotive industry is undergoing a major transformation, and auto parts dealers are at the heart of it. With the rise of digital commerce and a growing consumer preference for online purchases, the way auto parts are bought and sold has changed dramatically. But this shift isn’t just about convenience. It’s also about accuracy, efficiency, and ensuring that customers get the right parts without the hassle of returns and mismatches.

For dealers, managing massive volumes of vehicle and parts data has become a critical challenge. From incorrect fitment details to outdated catalogs, data discrepancies can lead to lost sales, unhappy customers, and operational inefficiencies. That’s why structured, standardized data, such as ACES & PIES, has become the backbone of modern auto parts commerce.

In this blog, we’ll explore how automotive dealers can enhance the buying experience by leveraging data standards, AI-driven fitment solutions, and cutting-edge digital commerce strategies. Whether you’re a seasoned dealer or just entering the digital landscape, understanding these key elements will help you stay ahead in a competitive market.

The automotive industry is expanding at an unprecedented rate, with global projections indicating steady growth in vehicle sales and aftermarket parts demand. According to PRNewswire, the global automotive aftermarket is expected to reach $559.9 billion by 2030, fueled by an increasing number of vehicle owners looking for cost-effective maintenance and repairs. As vehicles become more technologically advanced, the demand for precision-fit auto parts is rising, making data accuracy more critical than ever.

However, this rapid growth brings a significant challenge – the overwhelming volume of data. The auto parts industry handles massive datasets involving thousands of makes, models, trims, and configurations. Each vehicle variant requires specific parts, and any discrepancy in this data can lead to incorrect purchases, returns, and customer dissatisfaction.

For auto parts dealers, managing this data efficiently is a major struggle. Inconsistent product descriptions, outdated compatibility information, and non-standardized data formats create roadblocks in inventory management and customer experience. Without a structured approach, dealers risk missed sales opportunities, increased return rates, and frustrated customers who struggle to find the right parts.

This is where ACES & PIES come into play! Standardized data formats that bring clarity, consistency, and efficiency to the auto parts industry. In the next section, we’ll break down these standards and how they can help dealers streamline their operations and improve the buying experience.

As the auto parts industry evolves, so does the complexity of managing fitment data and product information. The challenge? Thousands of vehicles, millions of parts, and multiple data sources – all need to align perfectly. Without a structured system, automotive dealers risk misfit parts, inaccurate listings, and poor customer experiences.

To overcome this, the industry relies on two standardized data management systems:

1. ACES (Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard) – Focuses on vehicle fitment data
2. PIES (Product Information Exchange Standard) – Standardizes product details

Understanding these two systems is critical for automotive dealers who want to streamline operations, enhance customer satisfaction, and boost sales.

What is ACES (Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard)?

ACES is the vehicle fitment data standard that ensures auto parts are accurately mapped to the correct year, make, model, engine, and other vehicle attributes.

In simple terms, ACES acts like a translator, helping manufacturers, distributors, and retailers communicate in the same language when referring to vehicle compatibility.

How ACES Works in Real Life:

Example 1: Brake Pads for a Ford F-150

Imagine a customer looking for brake pads that fit a 2021 Ford F-150 Lariat 3.5L V6. Instead of manually checking compatibility, the dealer’s system, using ACES-coded data, automatically pulls up only the brake pads designed for that specific vehicle.

Example 2: Oil Filter Fitment for Multiple Vehicles

An oil filter manufacturer produces a single filter model that fits multiple cars. ACES allows them to map this filter to various compatible makes and models in a structured format, making it easier for retailers to showcase accurate listings.

The ACES Advantage for Automotive Dealers:

• Fitment errors: Ensures parts match the right vehicles, lowering return rates
• Improves search accuracy: Customers can find the right parts faster
• Creates a universal language: Standardized data across manufacturers, distributors, and retailers

What is PIES (Product Information Exchange Standard)?

While ACES standardizes which part fits which vehicle, PIES standardizes all other product details, ensuring consistency across descriptions, dimensions, weights, pricing, and images.

Think of PIES as a digital product manual that helps customers make informed buying decisions.

How PIES Works in Real Life:

Example 1: A Headlight Assembly for a Toyota Camry

Let’s say a dealership sells aftermarket LED headlight assemblies for a Toyota Camry. Using PIES, they can ensure each product listing includes:

Brand: XYZ Auto Parts

Part Number: HL-56789

Bulb Type: LED

Dimensions: 8″ x 4″ x 3″

Weight: 2.5 lbs

UPC Code: 123456789012

Country of Origin: USA

Warranty: 2 years

This detailed, standardized format eliminates ambiguity and builds customer confidence.

Example 2: Engine Oil Listings on an eCommerce Platform

If a store sells multiple brands of engine oil, PIES ensures each product includes:

• Viscosity rating (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40)
• Volume options (e.g., 1 quart, 5 quarts)
• Certification standards (API SN, ILSAC GF-6)
• Intended use (Gasoline, Diesel, Hybrid)

The PIES Advantage for Automotive Dealers:

Provides rich product descriptions: More information = More confident buyers

Minimizes confusion: Customers know exactly what they’re purchasing

Standardizes data across platforms: Consistency in online and offline channels

Why ACES & PIES Matter More Than Ever?

As millennials and DIY auto enthusiasts increasingly turn to eCommerce for auto parts, the need for accurate fitment data (ACES) and detailed product descriptions (PIES) has never been greater.

Without these standards, dealers risk selling incorrect parts, increasing return rates, and frustrating customers, ultimately losing business to competitors who provide a smoother buying experience.

In the next section, we’ll explore how the rise of DIY culture and online auto parts shopping is driving the demand for ACES & PIES-compliant data.

The auto parts industry is undergoing a major shift thanks to changing consumer behavior, digital transformation, and the rise of DIY (Do-It-Yourself) culture. More customers, especially millennials and Gen Z, are skipping traditional auto shops and turning to eCommerce platforms to find and purchase parts on their own.

This shift presents both opportunities and challenges for automotive dealers. Let’s explore some key trends and statistics that highlight why online platforms and standardized data (ACES & PIES) are more crucial than ever.

1. The Exploding Growth of the Automotive Aftermarket

The global automotive aftermarket is expected to reach $559.9 billion by 2030, growing at a 3.4% CAGR from 2022 to 2030. In the U.S. alone, the auto parts and accessories market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 5.60%, reaching a value of USD 21.3 billion by 2030. As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, the need for specialized aftermarket parts will grow, highlighting just how important accurate vehicle fitment data (ACES) is!

2. Millennials Becoming Spenders & Leading the DIY Movement

Millennials are more likely to buy auto parts online than previous generations, with 45% of millennials using a tablet or smartphone during the car-shopping process, establishing the rise of online platform usage. Additionally, in the next 10 years, 40% of all new vehicles will be sold to Millennials, who will buy cars and own them for the rest of the 21st century.

According to AutoCare, DIY (Do-It-Yourself) car repairs are gaining traction. Most auto parts buyers attempt their own repairs instead of visiting mechanics. Social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok have fueled this DIY culture. Millions of users watch tutorials on changing oil, replacing brake pads, and upgrading car accessories. In addition, the DIY segment was surpassed at USD 189.57 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.60% during the forecast period.

What does this mean for dealers?

• Dealers must simplify the parts-buying experience with clear, structured fitment data (ACES) and detailed product information (PIES) to help DIY customers find the right parts effortlessly.
• Digital Commerce-ready product listings with high-quality images, installation videos, and compatibility filters are now a must-have.

3. The Shift Towards Digital Auto Parts Shopping

The U.S. Commerce Department estimated the Automotive Parts & Accessories category brought in $133.24 billion in 2023. That’s up 7% from $123.83 billion a year earlier.

Amazon and eBay dominate the online auto parts space, but specialty automotive digital commerce platforms like RockAuto, CarParts.com, and AutoZone’s digital store are gaining significant market share.

Consumers who shop for auto parts online are increasingly mobile. They research products, reviews, and pricing, with 43% using mobile devices to compare prices, 43% looking up product reviews and 41% reading product details.

What does this mean for dealers?

• Dealers without a digital presence risk losing business to online marketplaces.
• Having ACES & PIES-compliant product data ensures listings are optimized for search, easy to navigate, and trusted by buyers.

4. The Need for Standardized Data in Online Marketplaces

Most online auto parts returns happen due to incorrect fitment, a direct result of incomplete or inconsistent product data. Further, to understand the need for standardized data, customers have become increasingly aware of the need for product details. Customers are more likely to complete a purchase if the product listing includes detailed specifications, images, and fitment confirmation, all powered by ACES & PIES. 

What does this mean for dealers?

• Standardizing data with ACES & PIES eliminates errors, improves customer trust, and reduces costly returns.
• Dealers who implement AI-powered fitment search tools can increase sales.

The automotive industry is rapidly shifting towards eCommerce and digital-first experiences. Consumers, especially younger generations, expect seamless, accurate, and hassle-free online shopping experiences for their auto parts.

To stay competitive, automotive dealers must adapt by:

• Ensuring ACES & PIES compliance to provide accurate and standardized product data
• Enhancing online shopping experiences with AI-powered fitment search engines
• Meeting DIY and eCommerce demands with rich product information and compatibility filters

In the next section, we’ll explore the risks and challenges dealers face if they don’t adopt ACES & PIES standards and how inaccurate data can impact customer trust and revenue.

As the automotive aftermarket becomes more digital, having accurate and well-structured product data is not only a competitive advantage but an essential requirement. Without ACES & PIES-compliant data, automotive dealers face serious challenges that impact their bottom line, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

Let’s break down the key issues that arise when dealers operate without standardized fitment and product data.

1. High Return Rates Due to Incorrect Fitment

One of the biggest pain points for auto parts dealers is high return rates caused by incorrect fitment. The primary reason why all online auto parts returns occur can be because the parts don’t fit the customer’s vehicle. This is a costly issue, as returns result in shipping fees, restocking costs, and lost revenue. Additionally, processing a single return can cost a business a fortune!

Without ACES-compliant data, customers have to manually verify vehicle compatibility, increasing the likelihood of ordering the wrong part. This not only affects customer trust but also puts a financial burden on dealerships due to frequent returns and refunds.

2. Lost Sales Opportunities Due to Poor Product Data

Online shoppers expect detailed and accurate product information when buying auto parts. According to RetailDive, 30% of online shoppers abandon purchases if product details are unclear or incomplete. Without PIES-compliant data, dealerships often fail to provide essential product details like dimensions, materials, and compatibility, making it harder for customers to make informed purchasing decisions.

The lack of proper product descriptions, images, and specifications leads to customer hesitation, ultimately driving them to competitors who offer better-organized and more informative listings. Dealers who do not prioritize structured product data risk losing a significant portion of their potential online sales.

3. Limited Access to Online Marketplaces (Amazon, eBay, Walmart, etc.)

Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart require structured and standardized data for listing auto parts. Without ACES & PIES compliance, dealerships struggle to meet these data formatting requirements, making it difficult to list and sell products on such platforms.

For example, Amazon’s Part Finder tool relies on ACES data to allow customers to filter auto parts based on their vehicle specifications. If a dealer’s product data isn’t structured correctly, their listings may get delisted, ranked lower, or even rejected, leading to lost visibility and revenue.

4. Inefficiencies in Inventory and Data Management

Many auto parts dealers manually update their inventory and product information, leading to errors, inconsistencies, and wasted time. A report by McKinsey & Company states that manual data management can slow down operational efficiency. For auto parts dealers, it affects order fulfillment and increases the chances of selling incompatible parts.

Without automated and standardized data formats, managing inventory across multiple channels becomes a time-consuming and error-prone process. Dealers often end up with duplicate or conflicting data, which results in customer confusion and operational bottlenecks.

5. Poor Customer Experience and Increased Support Costs

A lack of ACES & PIES-compliant data also leads to an increased burden on customer support teams. When product listings do not provide clear fitment details, images, and specifications, customers are forced to contact support for clarification. This increases wait times, customer frustration, and operational costs for dealers.

A detailed statistic report by Help Scout found that 80% of customers are willing to switch to competitors if they face difficulties in finding details. Dealers without structured ACES & PIES data end up overwhelming their customer support teams, leading to higher workloads, delayed responses, and dissatisfied customers.

6. Compliance and Regulatory Challenges

The automotive industry is subject to evolving compliance standards and regulations. Many regions require accurate and standardized auto parts data for safety and legal reasons. Dealers without ACES & PIES compliance may struggle with regulatory requirements, risking potential fines or operational setbacks.

For example, California’s Air Resources Board (CARB) mandates that vehicle emissions-related parts must include accurate specifications to meet environmental regulations. Without structured data, dealers may fail to comply with such requirements, limiting their ability to sell parts in regulated markets.

Now that we’ve seen the challenges of not using ACES & PIES let’s explore how implementing these data standards can transform auto parts dealerships. The automotive industry is moving towards a data-driven ecosystem, and ACES & PIES compliance provides the foundation for efficiency, accuracy, and scalability in the digital marketplace.

Here’s how ACES & PIES-compliant data helps automotive dealers:

1. Reduced Return Rates and Higher Customer Satisfaction

Returns due to incorrect fitment cost the industry billions of dollars each year. According to Shopify, the cost to process a return can be anywhere from 20%–65% of the item’s original value, affecting both revenue and customer experience. By using ACES-compliant data, dealers ensure that every auto part listing is mapped to the right year, make, model, and submodel, significantly reducing the risk of customers ordering incompatible parts.

2. Enhanced Online Visibility and Sales on Marketplaces

Digital commerce is now a key driver of auto parts sales, with the market projected to reach USD 343.13 billion by 2032. Major marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart require standardized data formats to list products. Dealers with ACES & PIES-compliant product data can seamlessly integrate with these platforms, ensuring their listings meet marketplace standards and appear in search filters and fitment tools.

For example, Amazon’s Part Finder Tool allows users to input their vehicle details and get a filtered list of compatible parts, a process driven by ACES-compliant data. Dealers who follow standardized data formats can increase their discoverability, conversions, and sales on these high-traffic platforms.

3. Improved Inventory and Catalog Management

Managing an extensive inventory of auto parts can be a nightmare without structured product data. Dealerships that digitize and standardize their inventory data experience a significant improvement in operational efficiency.

With PIES-compliant product data, dealers can:

• Automate product updates across multiple sales channels
• Ensure consistent product details (price, dimensions, materials, compatibility)
• Reduce manual errors in inventory management

This leads to faster product listings, better stock management, and seamless omnichannel operations.

4. More Informed Customers, Higher Conversion Rates

Modern shoppers demand comprehensive product details before making a purchase. A study by Convert Cart found that 53% of online shoppers won’t buy a product if they don’t find enough information about it.

With ACES & PIES-compliant data, dealers can provide:

• Accurate fitment details (reducing uncertainty in buying decisions)
• High-quality product descriptions & specifications
• Clear, standardized images that boost buyer confidence

By improving product transparency and accuracy, dealers build customer trust, leading to higher conversions and repeat business.

5. Faster and More Cost-Effective Order Processing

Standardized product data reduces the need for manual intervention, allowing dealers to process orders faster. Businesses using ACES & PIES see a significant increase in order fulfillment efficiency due to automation.

By implementing these standards, dealerships can:

• Speed up order processing & fulfillment
• Minimize human errors in data entry
• Optimize warehouse management & logistics

This results in faster deliveries, happier customers, and increased revenue.

For automotive dealers, ensuring that customers find the right auto parts quickly and accurately is critical to driving sales and customer satisfaction. However, with thousands of SKUs and varying compatibility factors, searching for the correct parts can be a complex and time-consuming process. This is where AI-powered fitment engines come into play, transforming the auto parts search experience into something seamless, intuitive, and efficient.

Let’s explore how AI-powered fitment engines are redefining the auto parts buying journey for both businesses and customers.

The Challenge with Traditional Fitment Search

Before AI-powered solutions, searching for auto parts was a tedious process that often led to frustration, incorrect purchases, and high return rates. Traditional systems relied on manual data entry, static databases, and basic search functions, which:

• Required customers to sift through multiple catalogs and compatibility charts
• Often failed to filter parts accurately for specific vehicle models
• Led to mismatches in part compatibility, resulting in costly returns
• Created inefficiencies for dealers, increasing order processing time

As consumer expectations evolved, it became clear that traditional search methods were no longer sufficient for the fast-paced, digital-driven auto parts industry.

How AI-Powered Fitment Engines Solve These Challenges

AI-powered fitment engines leverage machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), and predictive analytics to deliver a highly refined and personalized search experience. Here’s how they revolutionize the auto parts search process:

1. Precision-Based Search for Accurate Fitment

Unlike basic keyword searches, AI-powered fitment engines understand vehicle specifications down to the finest details, ensuring customers get precisely matched parts for their specific vehicle model.

For example, instead of a customer manually filtering for a “brake pad for a 2018 Toyota Camry XLE,” an AI-powered system can automatically suggest the correct brake pad options based on the vehicle’s make, model, sub-model, engine type, and trim level.

This eliminates guesswork, reduces errors in ordering, and enhances customer confidence in their purchases.

2. Real-Time Data Processing and Updates

AI-powered systems integrate with ACES & PIES-compliant data sources, ensuring that fitment information is always up to date. Unlike traditional static databases, these engines:

• Continuously sync with manufacturer updates to reflect the latest vehicle models
• Adjust recommendations based on inventory availability and customer preferences
• Detect part supersessions and replacements, ensuring customers don’t buy outdated or discontinued products

This ensures that dealers and customers always have access to the most accurate and current fitment information.

3. Personalized Search and Smart Recommendations

AI-powered fitment engines go beyond simple searches by understanding customer behavior and preferences. Through machine learning algorithms, they can:

• Offer personalized product recommendations based on past searches and purchases
• Provide alternative part suggestions if the primary choice is out of stock
• Highlight popular or highly rated products for similar vehicle models

This enhanced personalization not only boosts sales but also improves the overall customer experience, making it easier for buyers to find exactly what they need.

4. Image Recognition and Visual Search

Some AI-powered fitment engines incorporate image recognition technology, allowing users to:

• Upload a picture of a part and receive instant recommendations for compatible replacements
• Identify hard-to-find parts simply by scanning them with a smartphone

This feature is especially useful for mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and dealerships, reducing the need for manual searches and technical specifications.

5. Voice-Enabled Search for Hands-Free Navigation

With the rise of voice assistants like Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant, AI-powered fitment engines are now integrating voice search capabilities. Customers can simply speak their vehicle details and part requirements, and the system will generate the best options instantly.

For example, a customer could say, “Find me brake pads for my 2020 Honda Accord Sport,” and the system would return the exact match within seconds.

This hands-free experience makes auto parts shopping more accessible, convenient, and user-friendly.

Why AI-Powered Fitment Engines Are a Game-Changer?

• Faster and more accurate searches: Eliminates frustration and increases conversions
• Improved customer satisfaction: Ensures buyers get exactly what they need the first time
• Reduced returns and refunds: Saves time and money for both customers and dealers
• Efficient inventory management: Helps dealers optimize stock levels and availability
• Seamless integration with digital commerce platforms: Enhances the online shopping experience

As the automotive industry continues to embrace digital transformation, AI-powered fitment engines are becoming a necessity rather than a luxury. Dealers who adopt smart, AI-driven solutions will not only stay ahead of the competition but also offer their customers a frictionless, modern shopping experience.

The auto parts industry has long struggled with fitment accuracy, leading to high return rates, frustrated customers, and inefficiencies in inventory management. However, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) stepping into the scene, auto parts fitment is undergoing a massive transformation. These technologies bring data-driven precision, automation, and predictive capabilities, ensuring that customers get the right parts without the hassle of trial and error.

Let’s explore how AI and ML are revolutionizing auto parts fitment, making it smarter, faster, and more reliable.

1. AI-Powered Fitment Validation for 100% Accuracy

One of the biggest challenges for auto parts dealers is ensuring that the right part matches the right vehicle. Traditionally, fitment data relied on manual entry and static catalogs, making it prone to errors. AI-powered systems now automatically validate fitment accuracy by:

• Cross-referencing manufacturer specifications with real-time data
• Detecting inconsistencies in part numbers and descriptions
• Automatically correcting errors before they impact the customer

For example, if a dealer incorrectly lists a 2022 Toyota Corolla brake pad under a 2021 model, an AI-driven system can flag the error and correct it, preventing potential misfits and returns.

2. Predictive Analytics for Smarter Recommendations

ML algorithms analyze historical purchase data, customer behavior, and seasonal trends to offer highly accurate part recommendations. These recommendations aren’t just generic suggestions; they’re intelligent predictions based on multiple factors, such as:

• Vehicle history (e.g., commonly replaced parts for a specific model)
• Driving patterns (e.g., parts that wear out faster in urban vs. rural areas)
• Past purchases and returns (e.g., frequently bought parts together)

For instance, if a customer buys a set of brake pads, the AI system might suggest rotors and brake fluid, based on a pattern where 80% of similar customers bought those together.

This personalized approach improves the shopping experience and increases cross-selling opportunities for dealers.

3. AI-Driven Image Recognition for Easy Part Identification

Many customers struggle to identify the exact part they need, especially when the original part numbers are missing or unclear. AI-powered image recognition simplifies this by allowing users to:

• Take a photo of the old part and get instant recommendations for a replacement
• Scan barcodes or QR codes to pull up exact product details
• Match visually similar parts using AI-driven pattern recognition

For example, if a customer has a worn-out air filter but doesn’t know its model number, they can upload an image to the dealer’s website. AI instantly scans its database and suggests the correct replacement part, eliminating the need for manual searches or expert intervention.

4. Automated Fitment Mapping to Reduce Manual Effort

Traditionally, mapping vehicle fitment data required extensive manual work. Dealers had to:

• Manually update part numbers for every new vehicle release
• Cross-check multiple sources to maintain fitment accuracy
• Re-enter data into eCommerce platforms and inventory systems

With AI, this process is fully automated. Fitment engines map, update, and validate vehicle compatibility data in real time, ensuring that every part listing is:

• Correctly categorized based on make, model, year, and engine type
• Synchronized across multiple platforms (eCommerce, ERP, inventory)
• Updated automatically when manufacturers release new fitment data

This saves countless hours of manual work, reduces human errors, and ensures that dealers always have the latest fitment data at their fingertips.

5. AI-Powered Chatbots and Virtual Assistants for Customer Support

One of the biggest pain points in auto parts eCommerce is customer uncertainty—buyers often have questions about compatibility, pricing, and installation. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants provide real-time guidance by:

• Answering customer queries 24/7 with AI-driven responses
• Guiding users through the fitment selection process
• Suggesting the best parts based on vehicle history
• Processing orders and tracking shipments

For example, a customer looking for a battery for a 2019 Ford F-150 can ask the chatbot: “Which battery fits my truck?”

The AI assistant will instantly pull the best-fit options based on the vehicle’s specifications, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free shopping experience.

6. AI-Enhanced Inventory Management for Better Stock Control

AI doesn’t just help customers find the right parts. It also helps dealers optimize their inventory. AI-powered inventory management systems:

• Predict demand patterns to ensure the right stock levels
• Identify slow-moving parts and recommend discount strategies
• Reduce overstock and understock issues using real-time data insights

For example, if AI detects a high demand for winter tires in October, it can automatically suggest stocking up in advance. Similarly, if certain parts aren’t selling, AI might recommend bundling them with high-demand items to clear out inventory.

This data-driven approach improves profitability and reduces wasted stock.

Navigating the evolving landscape of the automotive parts industry requires a well-defined digital strategy and expert guidance. This is where our Strategy & Consulting services come into play.

With two decades of experience in digital transformation, we have helped automotive dealers and distributors optimize their supply chain, data management, and customer experience. Whether you’re struggling to understand ACES & PIES compliance, AI-powered fitment solutions, or digital commerce expansion, we provide tailored strategies to enhance operational efficiency and accelerate growth.

Our automotive industry solutions are designed to address the unique challenges of auto parts retailers, marketplaces, and OEMs, ensuring seamless system integration and market adaptability.

Looking to future-proof your business? Let us help you develop a scalable, insights-driven strategy that drives long-term success.