There Are Benefits to Choosing Either OEM or Aftermarket Parts

When it comes to repairing one's own vehicle or having a repair shop do so, there's usually always an option between OEM and aftermarket parts. Unless one has spent a little time doing the research about automotive repairs, these terms may seem a bit fresh. Understanding the difference between the two and the individual benefits each brings to the table can assist one in making a knowledgeable decision about which type of part to use.

OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. OEM parts are those that are made specifically by the vehicle manufacturer. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, are similar to OEM parts. However, they are not made by the vehicle's manufacturer. So, when one is looking for vehicle parts directly from the manufacturer, they should opt for OEM parts. Contrarily, if one doesn't necessarily desire a part to be made by the vehicle's manufacturer, they can opt for an aftermarket part.

Reasons to Choose OEM Parts

OEM parts tend to be a go-to for those looking for top-quality automotive parts. When one gets an OEM part, they can be assured that the part was made directly by the manufacturer and to their intended specifications. Most OEM parts will come with a manufacturer's warranty to showcase their commitment to producing good-quality auto parts.

When it comes to warranties, one must pay close attention to their vehicle's warranty. Some vehicle manufacturers do not allow non-OEM parts to be installed on the vehicle. If one does, they immediately void the vehicle's warranty. It's vital that one understands what their vehicle's warranty entails and never use non-OEM parts if it voids out their existing vehicle's warranty.

One very nice attribute about OEM parts is that they're guaranteed to fit perfectly. When one purchases aftermarket parts, they're not guaranteed to fit just right. This is because aftermarket parts are not designed by the vehicle manufacturer who has the vehicle specifications. OEM parts are designed according to the vehicle's original part specifications.

OEM parts are widely available for vehicle owners. Most can simply grab the part from their local car dealerships. Others can grab their OEM parts online directly from the vehicle manufacturer. The vehicle manufacturer is required by U.S. Federal Law to manufacture parts for their vehicles for at least 10 full years. Most vehicle manufacturers will continue to produce OEM parts well after this period for their top-selling models.

Reasons to Choose Aftermarket Parts

Aftermarket parts are widely popular because they ring in at about 40 percent of the purchase price of the same OEM part. As with most things, car manufacturers and their respective dealerships tend to market up prices for car owners. The truth is that aftermarket parts can be just as good as OEM parts and save the vehicle owner a ton of money in the process.

If one usually takes their vehicle to an auto mechanic that is not a car dealership, they don't usually stock OEM parts for vehicles. Rather, they must order the OEM part directly from the dealership. However, most auto repair shops have easy and quick access to an aftermarket parts seller. This means that they can get the aftermarket part much quicker and can have the vehicle back on the road much sooner.

Aftermarket parts are produced by a number of companies. This allows any vehicle owner the ability to choose between which aftermarket company they want to get their parts from. In addition, when it comes to variety, aftermarket parts are available at a wider number of stores than OEM parts. If one store is facing a shortage of a particular part, the vehicle owner is likely to find another aftermarket part at a different auto parts store.

When it comes to upgrading a vehicle to enhance an individual aspect, aftermarket parts are the way to go. Many vehicle owners will upgrade their OEM parts to find better performance from their vehicles. Aftermarket parts allow vehicle owners the choice of using a particular part, such as an exhaust system, that was specifically designed to enhance power gains. Most vehicle manufacturers try to strike a balance between performance, safety, and durability. Many don't offer unique parts that work to enhance one specific attribute of the vehicle.