No matter how well you care for your car, a time will probably come when you need parts. Then, you’re faced with the crucial decision of where to get them from. Generally, you have two choices. You can either buy original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or go for aftermarket alternatives. Making the right choice can have consequences that extend beyond the impact on cost, as it can affect the performance and longevity of your vehicle.
Understanding Original and Aftermarket Parts
Before looking at OEM vs. aftermarket car parts and the advantages and disadvantages of each, it’s good to have an understanding of what exactly we mean by these terms.
What Are OEM Car Parts?
OEM parts are vehicle components made by the same company that provided the vehicle’s parts during assembly. They’re essentially identical to the parts that were installed when the car was first manufactured. For example, components for Chevys made by Chevrolet are OEM parts. These components are made to precise manufacturer specifications, and they often carry the brand of the carmaker as well.
When visiting a dealership service center for maintenance and repairs, the mechanics typically use OEM parts. Our service center uses genuine Chevy parts to ensure they work perfectly with your vehicle. Our technicians are also certified by Chevrolet as experts in repairing and maintaining Chevy vehicles.
What Are Aftermarket Car Parts?
Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers, not the original vehicle manufacturer. These companies specialize in making parts that are compatible with a wide range of vehicle makes and models, rather than being made for a specific car. While this option can open all kinds of doors for parts and features you might have a hard time finding elsewhere, it means these parts are made for your vehicle exactly. Quality can also vary.
OEM or Aftermarket: Comparing the Two
Here are a few key factors to consider when comparing the two options.
Price Differences: Cost Considerations When Choosing Parts
Aftermarket parts are typically the less expensive option. The potential for cost savings is one of the main advantages of aftermarket parts, particularly if you just need them for routine maintenance and repairs on older vehicles. Here, the investment in OEM parts may not be quite as justifiable, or they may be harder to come by.
However, the initial savings presented by aftermarket parts may not always translate into long-term value. OEM parts generally carry a higher price tag for a reason. The price reflects the research, development, and strict quality control standards required to build the parts.\
Quality Analysis: Durability and Performance Expectations
Your choice ultimately adds up to quality. OEM parts are designed to be a perfect match for your vehicle. They’re assured to fit and function optimally, and they’re durable. The manufacturer rigorously tests OEM parts to make sure they meet precise engineering standards, allowing the company to guarantee that they’ll perform exactly as the original vehicle component. You’ll get the highest level of quality and compatibility with OEM parts.
Many aftermarket parts meet similar quality standards to OEM parts, but the main issue with aftermarket parts is variability. The aftermarket industry includes a wide range of manufacturers, some more reputable than others. Using inferior aftermarket parts for repairs and maintenance can compromise the performance and possibly the safety of your vehicle. They might even cause premature wear on other vehicle components, potentially costing you more in the long run despite their more competitive initial price.
Availability and Access: Ease of Sourcing
You generally get OEM parts through authorized dealerships. You can order genuine Chevrolet parts through our parts department, for example. While this might seem restrictive to the supply chain, it ensures you get the right part without extensive searching.
Aftermarket parts are more widely available. You can typically find them at independent auto parts stores, through independent mechanics, and available for sale through online retailers. The convenience of this broad availability is one reason you might choose aftermarket parts for standard maintenance. However, we recommend ordering genuine OEM parts through an official channel for any repairs essential to your car’s safety or function.
Variety and Customization Options: Adding Your Style
Because so many manufacturers produce aftermarket parts, there’s a wide range of options available. Beyond basic replacements, you can find parts that offer possible performance upgrades and aesthetic enhancements. Aftermarket parts are a good choice if you wish to personalize your vehicle. OEM parts are often less flashy, but using them ensures that the replacement will maintain your vehicle’s original integrity and performance.
Warranty and Guarantees: Protection Against Defects
Most automakers back their OEM parts with a warranty. If the part fails due to an unexpected defect during the warranty period, you can easily replace it. This offers an added layer of protection and peace of mind.
Aftermarket parts might not come with a warranty. The warranty terms for these parts can vary wildly depending on the manufacturer, and some uncertified aftermarket parts might not come with a warranty at all.
Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts
Aftermarket parts certainly have advantages in terms of cost and customization. For superficial components, they might make an attractive option.
But if you need to replace any super important vehicle component (we’re talking unique engine components or other parts where you just can’t sacrifice quality), there is no substitute for OEM parts. The guaranteed compatibility, overall reliability, and warranty protection they offer mean OEM parts will always be the recommended choice for any essential repairs and maintenance.
Make the Right Choice for Your Vehicle With Titus-Will Chevrolet
Visit Titus-Will Chevrolet for all your Chevrolet needs. If your vehicle needs some love or even if you just need to schedule that routine oil change, then book an appointment with our expert, Chevrolet-certified technicians. For any other questions, contact us or stop by the dealership in Tacoma, Washington, today. Our friendly team is on hand to discuss our extensive lineup of new and quality used vehicles, our service and parts specials, and to assist you in any way we can.
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