All car parts are subject to adverse effects: wear, friction, temperature changes, untimely oil changes, the destructive effects of salts, and corrosion. And now comes the moment when you need to replace or repair components and a natural question arises: which parts are better to choose, so that they are perfectly compatible and help to increase the life of the car.
It would seem that the solution is obvious: take the original parts and do not doubt their quality. However, their price is quite high. And if the car warranty has expired, does it make sense to buy expensive parts from an authorized dealer? Or look for an alternative that will not be inferior to the original in quality?
We suggest you understand the difference between two alternatives: the original equipment and the aftermarket - and make your choice.
OEM Parts
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is defined as all the components of the car, of which it is assembled on a conveyor belt by the manufacturer. In addition, there are original fluids and oils... Most importantly, does this mean that all components were made by the car manufacturer? Surprisingly, the answer to this question is no.
Spare parts for the manufacturer are provided by third-party suppliers who, by order and engineering drawings, make the necessary part. In the process of obtaining components, the automaker's quality control department checks the components, puts a factory mark on them, and places them in the original packaging.
After several years of making a car the automaker allows suppliers to produce the same parts that went to the assembly line but under their own brands.
Thus, sometimes the only main difference between the original part and the aftermarket part is their unique packaging from the automobile concern. When choosing a replacement part for your vehicle, you can be confident that it will ideally fit your vehicle and will serve reliably.
Original Equipment replacement parts are often used during the warranty period of the vehicle. This is due to the manufacturer's instructions since the manufacturer is ready to fulfill his warranty obligations only if the owner of the car uses original spare parts.
Aftermarket Parts
This class includes components manufactured at the factory of the supplier of original parts. The factory supplies part of its products to authorized dealers, and sells the other part freely.
It should be known that often manufacturers of non-original spare parts are official suppliers of components for the original manufacturer. For example, in an auto parts store there may be a sensor for your car in the original packaging with original part markings. But, at the same time you may find the same part on a separate shelf that had been made in the same factory, but this time in aftermarket branded packaging with a much lower price.
Why is there such a large difference in price? The automaker often seeks to make money on consumables and components during the warranty period. Therefore, it adds a substantial margin to the supplier price. Contrary to a popular myth, using aftermarket parts does not void the car's warranty if they are direct replacements. Many aftermarket parts function just as well as, or even better than, the OEM version.
If you want to save money, it is advisable to purchase aftermarket parts for your vehicle after the end of the warranty period. At the same time, the cost of aftermarket parts are at least 20% lower. Thus, the purchase of aftermarket parts can reduce the cost of operating equipment in the post-warranty period without compromising its reliability and durability.
Should I use Aftermarket parts, or is it better to rely on the original? This question remains open. The final choice aftermarket or OEM is up to the consumer.
