As complex mechanical devices, compressors are composed of many different parts. Most of the parts can be found and replaced with relative ease. Damage to parts such as the gas tank or pistons will usually require complete replacement.

Exterior compressor parts (parts that can easily be seen with the eye) are the gas tank, the frame, and the air/gas compression module. Optional external compressor parts can be wheels, handlebars, and electricity cables. Although these parts are the most exposed, they are also the least likely to be replaced. This is because normal operation of the compressor will not cause any problems to these parts even after long periods of time have passed.

Interior compressor parts are mostly located within the compression module. These parts include the rotary screw, rotary vane, portable pistons, springs, shocks, forks, metallic or plastic rims, and stands.

Compressor parts may need to be replaced for three reasons. The first is bad usage. This includes physical damage caused to any part of the compressor because of improper usage.

The second cause for replacement is incorrect or insufficient oil usage. If bad oil is used or if no oil is used, then sooner or later, an oil-lubricated compressor is guaranteed to malfunction.

Finally, as time passes and compressors operate heavily, some of the internal parts (pistons, for example) get damaged slowly over time. This wear and tear is completely normal, and it happens to the majority of mechanic devices.

As the pistons are put in use day after day, they reach a stage where they are no longer usable and need to be replaced. Usually, a dramatic decrease in the compressor's performance indicates that some parts need to be replaced.