Has anyone noticed when shopping for and purchasing accessories on any (US) dealer website that you can't select a model year Defender newer than 2020. I'm trying to order mud flaps and side steps but can't make the vehicle year 2023. My assumption is there are no structural difference between a 2020 and a 2023 on either of those accessories, i.e. I can just order the 2020 parts and they'll fit my 2023 no problems?

 

Between 2020s on the US lots and 2022s was a very very compressed timeframe. It would be unlikely there is any difference IMO. 2023 I would hesitate slightly to say but I'd be surprised if there's any difference. Not much is changing on these things, If anything they've lost an option or two for 2023 but structure-wise I doubt there's a difference. When I bought my deep-sided rubber mat set it was for 2020 model year and I have a 2022.

 

Each year there's like a 1 MY gap in their on-line ordering. No idea if that's a software limitation or a strategic plan. Given their track record with vehicle updates (some of which are nearly life-threatening), I suspect the former. Whatever the reason, 'tis what it is: 1 year lag. For trim and body stuff, I wouldn't sweat it. However, some items do change over time (such as the e-differential) so when in doubt, just call a Parts Department. Personally, the only thing I would call in for would be electronics and things that make the Defender go or stop.

 

yeah, i've tried searching around and always notice this too. best thing to do (as GrouseK9 said above) is just to call parts department of local or trusted dealer to confirm anything in their system (i assume they have access to latest info and what public can search online is indeed lagging.)