Finding Spare Parts with AI – How Klaus Got His Scooter Running Again
Klaus, 52, a mechanic, is repairing an old scooter but can’t find the right spare part. Instead of browsing countless shops, he describes the part to an AI. The AI identifies it, searches across vendors, and instantly returns three purchase options – complete with prices and availability.
Problem
Older vehicles often lack clear documentation. OEM numbers are missing or unreadable, online catalogs outdated, and many listings show incompatible parts. Searching manually takes hours.
AI Solution
Klaus describes the part naturally, for example: “I need the carburetor cover for a Piaggio ZIP 50, year 1998 – aluminum, round, two screws.”
The AI uses text analysis and optional image recognition to identify the component. It scans shop APIs, forums, and price‑comparison databases to deliver:
- Three concrete results with link, price, and delivery time,
- Compatibility check for model, year, and serial,
- Alternative parts when originals are unavailable,
- Extra info on shipping, reviews, and return policy.
Example Output
- Shop A – Original – €48.90 – 3 days delivery
- Shop B – Aftermarket – €36.00 – in stock
- Shop C – Used – €29.50 – 1‑year warranty
Outcome
Within minutes, Klaus finds the right part at a fair price. He saves time, avoids mistakes, and finishes the repair the same weekend.
Benefits
- Time‑saving: Automated search and comparison.
- Accuracy: AI identifies components even without part numbers.
- Convenience: Links, availability, and reviews in one view.
Limitations
- Depends on data freshness – availability and prices can change.
- Images must be clear and scaled correctly to avoid mismatches.
- Check payment and shipping details manually.
Conclusion: AI saves mechanics hours when searching for spare parts – using text understanding, image recognition, and automatic price comparison. More wrenching, less searching.
Tools used
Perplexity AI
Perplexity AI, Inc.
AI search assistant for research, answers, summaries and deep information.
Claude AI
Anthropic PBC
AI assistant for writing, analysis, coding and complex tasks.
Google Lens
Google LLC
AI tool for visual search, object detection, and image analysis.
Notion AI
Notion Labs, Inc.
AI assistant for writing, organizing, summarizing, and knowledge management.
ChatGPT
OpenAI
Versatile AI assistant for text, code, and analysis.