New Zealand’s Chevrolet and GMC pickup scene spans a wide range, from C10s and K5 Blazers turning heads at shows, to current-generation Silverados and Sierras pulling their weight in the daily grind. For Vincent Offenbaker and the team at American Pickup Parts, that spread is the job description. We caught up with Vince to talk about where the demand is coming from, why a Chevy part won’t always bolt onto a GMC despite the family resemblance, and what to know before ordering parts.
NZV8: Chevrolet and GMC pickups span a huge range of generations in NZ — from C10s through to the current Silverado and Sierra. Which generations do you get the most demand for parts on, and has that shifted since you took over the business?
“We support Chevrolet and GMC pickups from the classics right through to the latest models, so no two days are ever the same,” Vincent says. “As American pickups continue to grow in popularity in New Zealand, we’re seeing enquiries across the entire model range. Our focus isn’t on one particular generation — it’s on helping customers find the right part for their truck, regardless of its age.”
GM shares much of its componentry across Chevrolet and GMC badges, but there are still model-specific quirks. What are the most common mix-ups people make when sourcing parts, thinking a Chevy part will do the job on a GMC?
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that if two trucks look similar, the parts must be interchangeable. In reality, differences can vary depending on the engine, transmission, drivetrain, trim level, and production date. That’s why we always encourage customers to provide their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or registration details. Correct identification from the start saves time, money, and the frustration of receiving the wrong part.”
Are there particular Chevrolet or GMC parts — mechanical, trim, or glass — that are getting genuinely hard to source now, even from the US?
“As these vehicles get older, some parts inevitably become more difficult to obtain. Manufacturers discontinue products, aftermarket suppliers move on to newer vehicles, and availability changes over time. The key is knowing where to look and understanding the alternatives when an original part is no longer available. That’s where experience really makes a difference.”
With the current-generation Silverado and Sierra now becoming more common on NZ roads, does sourcing for them differ much from the classic C10- and K5-era jobs you’re used to?
“Every generation presents its own challenges. Older trucks often require specialist knowledge because information can be limited, while modern vehicles have far more electronic systems and model variations that make accurate identification essential. Regardless of the vehicle, our approach is always the same — identify the correct part first and make the process as straightforward as possible for the customer.”
For someone running a Chevy or GMC pickup who isn’t sure whether a part is a straightforward import or a real headache, what should they know before they start looking themselves?
“Start with as much information as you can. A VIN, registration number, or clear photos can make all the difference. There are often several versions of what appears to be the same part, and ordering the wrong component from overseas can quickly become expensive. Getting the right advice before placing an order is usually the quickest, most cost-effective option. Our job is to take the guesswork out of the process and help customers get back on the road with confidence.”
It’s the same approach that’s underpinned American Pickup Parts since Vincent took the business over from founder Peter Church: identify first, order once. Whether it’s a K5 Blazer with a part number nobody’s seen in years or a current Silverado with more electronics than a small aircraft, the philosophy doesn’t change.
