The service technician at a used auto parts store may have asked you if you want OEM, aftermarket, or genuine auto parts if you’ve ever looked for a position. Even though the differences are often subtle, there can be a noticeable difference between the quality of each. We describe the differences below and discuss which one will work best for your vehicle.
Are Auto Manufacturers Responsible For Making Their Parts?
Once upon a time, auto manufacturers made every component of their cars. The days of manufacturing parts yourself are long gone, as most manufacturers now contract out production to other companies. Many of these companies create and develop features for specific manufacturers, so this may not necessarily be bad. They are, therefore, set to the same standards.
Genuine Spare Parts
Mechanics used original equipment parts to build your new car. They may be called OEs (original equipment). Regardless of who makes them, they’ll probably come in boxes with the car manufacturer’s logo. These are the safest options because you can be sure what you are buying will fit your car and have a manufacturer’s guarantee. Additionally, your car’s warranty will remain valid if it’s still under the maker’s warranty. The downside is that these parts are usually the most expensive.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
They are often referred to as replacement parts. The parts were made by an external company that supplied parts for that car at some point. OEM parts will be the same, but the company that made the details will be listed on the box. Manufacturing companies such as Bosch, Lucas, or Valeo will have negotiated to sell their parts separately as part of their contract. In addition to being cheaper than OE parts, you may be able to use these without invalidating the car’s warranty. OEM parts are therefore suitable for vehicles that are three to four years old.
Aftermarket Parts
These parts are often called replacement parts or pattern parts, and these parts are fitted to cars as a cheap alternative to OEM parts. Aftermarket companies frequently buy the right to manufacture them using the original manufacturer’s template (pattern).
It isn’t easy to define aftermarket because it encompasses many qualities. Aftermarket parts can perform better than original equipment manufacturer parts. In high-end aftermarket firms, engineers analyze the causes of OEM parts failure and improve the design.
In addition, aftermarket parts may be so poorly made that your mechanic will need to adapt them to fit. They could use sub-standard materials in these parts and wear out in half the time of OEM parts. Alternatively, they could be dangerous since they are kept in sheds in developing countries.
Check for ISO International Organisation for Standardisation stamps on any parts you intend to use. Prices will vary depending on where and how they are made, but they’re generally less expensive than OE or OEM parts. Providing you buy one of good quality, you can use them on older cars.
