Car components are essential but they have a certain limit after which they might require replacement for better functionality. When it comes to buying car parts, OEM and aftermarket car parts are two of the most common options. OEM stands for original equipment manufacturers who produce original parts for replacement in their manufactured cars. Meanwhile, aftermarket car parts refer to the manufacturing of replacement parts and accessories by a third-party company for multiple car makes and models.
Here’s a complete guide that will help you distinguish between OEM and aftermarket car parts and choose the right parts and accessories to enhance vehicle performance.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN OEM AND AFTERMARKET PARTS?
OEM parts are produced by the same company that manufactured your car. For instance, Toyota manufactures parts for replacement in Toyota models. However, aftermarket car parts are designed to be compatible with quite a few models from different makes. You can notice differences in price, performance and warranty of the OEM and aftermarket car parts.
For instance, you can find different types of headlights in service shops or dealerships or online stores. Among these, you can look out for OEM headlights or aftermarket ones according to your vehicle model and budget. Moreover, it will be similar for other parts such as brake pads replacement. You can find both types of parts in service shops and dealerships but there may be slight differences in quality and price.
Although it is hard to find any difference in OEM or aftermarket parts, here are some factors that will help you distinguish between them:
PRICE
One of the key differences you’ll notice when buying OEM or aftermarket parts is the price. Aftermarket car parts cost less than the OEMs. Some OEMs have contracts with third-party part manufacturers but the prices of OEM parts are still high due to the OEM markups.
QUALITY
Whether you buy OEM or aftermarket car parts, quality is always the top priority. OEM car parts have better quality and work as great as the original part you mean to replace. Meanwhile, teh quality of aftermarket car parts can vary. Some may be as good as the OEM, others not so much. The low quality of car parts may be due to the mixture of lower-quality materials.
Besides, you can find high-quality parts from the service shops that stock aftermarket ones. You can also look out for high-quality original and aftermarket used car parts and accessories in the UAE.
WARRANTY
OEMs can provide a warranty for their manufactured car parts because the OEM car parts such as bumpers, fenders or other parts go through all the required tests like a crash test. These parts tend to be more resilient and lasting. With aftermarket parts, there is generally no warranty.
OEM OR AFTERMARKET – WHICH ONE IS BEST FOR YOU?
The decision is a tricky one. OEMs are preferred for quality but it’s not impossible to find a high-quality aftermarket part. With aftermarket parts, you can find one within your budget but the quality is not something to compromise on. Some parts are essential for safety. Therefore, you should select the ones with good quality that better fit your vehicle. Moreover, OEM parts are more costly than the aftermarket ones but you can find a perfect fit and match for your car.
Furthermore, when choosing between OEM or aftermarket car parts, you should always consider your car warranty. If you have a car that is still under the warranty of the manufacturer then always choose OEM parts. Not replacing the damaged car components with OEM ones may void your warranty.
Moreover, there is the option to go for vehicle special order to avoid usage of aftermarket parts in the first place.
Besides, whether you buy parts manufactured by OEM or aftermarket, always equip the one with the better quality in your used car in the UAE. You can also find these car parts and components for off-road modifications in your vehicle.
Keep following the UAE’s leading auto blog for more information on automotive parts and accessories.
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