Choosing between Used and OEM Auto Parts
As car parts fail or wear down, they obviously need to be replaced. Some components, such as alternators, must be replaced immediately to keep your vehicle on the road. On the other hand, buying replacements tires and brake pads can be postponed, even if doing so is a bad idea.
When you take your car for repairs to the dealership’s service department, you know you’re getting Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) car parts. However, if you take your car to an independent shop, you’ll most likely get aftermarket car parts.
What is the real difference? Does a less expensive part mean a poorer-quality part? Is there anything wrong with that? How do you choose between Used and OEM auto Parts? You need to know the real difference between Used or Aftermarket Auto Parts and OEM auto parts to make your decision.
Aftermarket Auto Parts and OEM Auto Parts
An aftermarket part is an auto part that is not sourced from the car’s maker. If the parts are direct replacement parts then they will not affect your car’s warranty. A number of companies make parts designed to function the same, or in some cases even better than the original part.
Aftermarket Auto Parts offer many advantages. Usually used auto Parts are relatively less expensive. There are hundreds of companies that make aftermarket parts. Greater variety means greater selection and a wider range of prices. In some cases, the aftermarket auto parts may turn out to be of better quality. You can walk into any gas station, auto parts store or local mechanic, and they’re bound to have a part that fits your car. This gives you more options on where to take your car for service. Due to these reasons, Aftermarket Parts may be a good choice for your car.
On the contrary, there may be many occasions where OEM auto Parts are the only choice for your vehicle. The OEM Parts match the parts that came with your vehicle when it rolled off the assembly line. Most automakers back up their OEM car parts with a one-year warranty. It is what the vehicle was manufactured with and provides a peace of mind in its familiarity and performance.
The greatest drawback of OEM auto Parts is they are relatively more expensive. The best place to buy your OEM automobile Parts is going to a dealership to buy their car parts. You can request OEM car parts from your local mechanic, but it may take longer to get your vehicle repaired since the parts must be ordered.
When should you go for OEM Auto parts?
As there are merits and drawbacks for both Aftermarket Parts and OEM Parts, you might wonder when you must go for OEM Parts. If you lease your car, there are also economic considerations. Since aftermarket parts decrease a vehicle’s book value, using them to repair your vehicle’s body may cost you part or all of your security deposit. When it comes to collision repairs, make sure you are getting OEM auto parts, since aftermarket body panels may not fit properly or have proper crumple zones for crash safety. In such situations it is better to use OEM car Parts.
On the contrary, if you intend to sell it in a few months, it may not be worthwhile to invest in an expensive OEM replacement.
Is the extra cost of OEM parts worth it?
When you purchase OEM Parts at a high cost, you may wonder whether it is really worthwhile. OEM Auto Parts may be your best pick if you wish to retain your vehicle for many years. Again, if you intend to get rid of your car within a few months, save money and purchase less-expensive components. As long as they last until you can retire your vehicle, they will suffice. It would be wiser to purchase Aftermarket Parts if you are on a budget. Budget items are also worth considering if you seldom drive your vehicle.
