Opting between OEM vs aftermarket parts can be rather difficult for many car owners who need parts for their vehicles.
Many of the owners do not even know what OEM means and how it is different from aftermarket. This is why in this article, we simplify car parts OEM vs aftermarket, so you are able to learn which route to go!
Differences Between Factory and Aftermarket Car Parts
What Are OEM Parts?
OEM is an abbreviation that stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. What this means is the fact that these parts are produced by the same company that supplies the manufacturer with parts for assembly.
Whenever you get OEM parts, you get components that are exactly like the ones your manufacturer recommends. This is why, when considering OEM parts vs aftermarket parts, OEM should have a priority.
What Are Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, come from third-party manufacturers. For example, a factory in China, not the original parts supplier.
These parts are basically fine copies that are designed to fit and replace your original OEM components. However, they can vary in terms of materials, quality, and fitment.
This is why when it comes to aftermarket vs OEM parts, aftermarket can be a bit problematic if you don’t choose well.
Pros and Cons of OEM Parts
Advantages of OEM Parts
OEM parts, as we noted, come from the original supplier for your OEM. These parts are a guaranteed fit. They match the original specs and there is no guesswork.
These parts are also designed to meet the strict quality standards of your automaker. If your car is under warranty, using OEM components will help you maintain coverage.
Dealers and certified shops rely only on OEM components when it comes to regular maintenance and repair.
Disadvantages of OEM Parts
There are also some disadvantages when it comes to OEM parts. Specifically, their cost. These parts cost a lot of money compared to aftermarket components.
This is what makes aftermarket vs OEM parts comparable because many buyers want to get a good deal and not overspend on OEM components.
Pros and Cons of Aftermarket Parts
Advantages of Aftermarket Parts
Aftermarket parts have many advantages over OEM. Especially their low price compared to OEM options. You can find parts that offer the same or even better performance than OEM.
Let’s take an example, brake pads, rotors, and air filters. For these components, there are always high-end aftermarket alternatives that perform much better than OEM. So, when it comes to aftermarket parts vs OEM, this is the aspect where the aftermarket has the advantage.
Disadvantages of Aftermarket Parts
There are great aftermarket parts that outpace OEM by a great extent, but there are also low-quality parts that do not even meet the basic requirements and fit very poorly.
So, this is the aspect where research is mandatory. You need to go through many brands to determine which one is good enough for your needs.
OEM vs Aftermarket Parts: Which Is Better for You?
Factors to Consider Before Choosing
What you should do is consider some factors before choosing between OEM parts vs aftermarket. These include the type of repair, your car’s age, your budget, and the warranty coverage.
If your car is new, then you definitely need OEM parts, you don’t want to void your warranty. If you have an older vehicle, then choosing aftermarket parts is a no-brainer decision because you get much cheaper parts.
When OEM Is the Better Choice
OEM parts make a lot of sense if your car is still under warranty and you don’t want to lose the warranty coverage. Many dealers could void your warranty if they notice aftermarket parts on your car.
Also, OEM parts are good if you want to preserve the value of your car. Let’s say that this is a classic vehicle and you want to make the car basically the same as the day it rolled from the production line.
Lastly, if you want to always have a perfect fitment. Aftermarket parts vs OEM are different in some cases when it comes to fitment. OEM ones can fit a lot better compared to cheap aftermarket parts.
When Aftermarket Parts Make More Sense
Aftermarket parts make more sense if you want to save money. These parts are much cheaper than OEM.
What is also worth noting is the fact that there are also some aftermarket parts that are far more expensive than OEM. These components surpass the OEM requirements and deliver more performance. For example, aftermarket brake components like pads and rotors, and aftermarket suspension with custom coilovers.
All of these modifications basically outpace the OEM. So, if you consider auto parts OEM vs aftermarket to increase the performance, then always go for aftermarket.
Tips for Buying Car Parts OEM vs Aftermarket
Always Compare Quality and Warranty
Before buying any car part, compare OEM vs aftermarket offerings. Check the quality and warranty that you get for the money.
Good aftermarket brands will give you solid warranty coverage. Then, compare this to an OEM offering. OEM parts also include warranty coverage in many cases.
Use a Factory Service Manual for Compatibility Checks
If you are unsure about the fitment and function, you should always consult the factory service manual. Having a manual is essential if you are a car owner. This way, you will always get the right parts for your model.
Buy From Reputable Sources Only
When it comes to auto parts, you should always purchase from established retailers. You should avoid some deals that seem too good to be true. Especially if there are some unknown Chinese brands that want to sell you parts online from some unknown Facebook and Instagram pages. Many of these parts do not even meet the basic OEM requirements.
Conclusion
When it comes to OEM vs aftermarket parts, both routes have their strengths and weaknesses. If you have a new car, always go for an OEM, unless you want to lose your warranty coverage.
If you have an older vehicle, you can choose aftermarket parts instead of OEM ones. Remember always that there are good and bad aftermarket parts. Always choose parts from reputable brands in order to avoid problems with fitment and quality.
Always do good research before you make a purchase. Read reviews online and learn what people have to say about a certain brand. This way, you will have good input on other opinions and see if this brand is good enough for you.
If you want to alter your vehicle’s performance with aftermarket components, choose reputable brands like Brembo, Billstein, K&N, and other companies that make high-end components that come with long warranties.