OEM vs Aftermarket Parts: Spotting The Difference

When it comes to the world of cars, deciding whether to buy an OEM or aftermarket part will always be an issue. This is because while you want to get a good replacement part for your car, you also don’t want to go overboard with your spending.

Thankfully, here at Smart Replacement Parts (SRP), we can help you clear the air on this issue.

So in getting a replacement part, should you get OEM or an aftermarket parts for your car? This article on OEM vs Aftermarket parts will help you make a better and more informed decision.

OEM Equivalent Parts

In simple terms, OEM equivalent parts, also called aftermarket parts, are parts that are not OEM. The acronym OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer parts. These parts are different from genuine parts. While both are from the car’s manufacturer, genuine parts are branded while OEM parts are not. This is the difference between the two.

Contrary to popular belief that OEMs are the best, aftermarket parts are just as good and sometimes even better than OEMs. What’s more, they are easy on the pocket.

What Is An OEM And Aftermarket Part?

OEM parts are parts made by the manufacturer of the vehicle you are seeking a replacement for. These parts, however, do not carry the logo of the car manufacturer.

Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, are replacement parts made by other companies, different from the vehicle’s manufacturer. They are made to function like the original parts but may look or function differently as well. They are also made to fit many cars, not just one particular car model.

Now while this is so, it does not mean that they compromise quality. With aftermarket parts, you can get replacement parts that may even be better than an OEM, depending on the manufacturer and how much you’re willing to spend. And the good thing is no matter how expensive an aftermarket part is, they generally cost less than an OEM.

This brings us to the pros and cons of OEMs and Aftermarket parts. Remember that making the best choice largely depends on confirming from the right source and consulting with a good mechanic. At SRP we will help you find exactly the right part you need and give you confidence in your online purchase.

Pros And Cons Of OEMs and Aftermarket Parts

Both OEMs and aftermarket car parts have their benefits and disadvantages.

For OEM parts, the pros include:

Quality

One standard advantage of an OEM part is quality because the vehicle’s manufacturer makes them. OEM parts are usually made to fit the vehicle’s specifications and perform the same function as the part that needs replacing.

Warranty

Most OEM parts come with a one year warranty by the manufacturer.

Despite the advantages, OEM parts still have their downsides, including:

Expensive

OEM parts are generally very expensive and this is a major reason car owners would rather opt for aftermarket parts.

Inferior quality

It’s not always that an OEM part is superior in quality to an aftermarket part. This is because an aftermarket part may include some improvements or upgrades that the OEM part does not have.

On the other hand, the pros of aftermarket parts are:

Affordability

Aftermarket car parts are generally more affordable than OEM parts. It is the best money-saving option.

Variety

Aftermarket parts offer a wide variety of parts at different prices and qualities. This is because different companies make them, so you can shop around and find the part you need that fits your budget.

Improved quality

An aftermarket part does not have to be of inferior quality to an OEM part. Sometimes, aftermarket parts come with improvements to the original, making them better and more reliable than OEM parts.

Warranty

You can also get a warranty for your aftermarket part, of one year.

Availability

Aftermarket parts are readily available. You can easily walk into any auto shop and find what you need for your car.

Cons of aftermarket car parts:

Varying quality

With aftermarket parts, the quality varies. If you choose to go for lower quality, you’ll still end up spending more to get a new one later on when it gets faulty.

SRP is the best place for aftermarket car parts online as many local Ford Dealers around Australia use our products to service their customers when they are no longer able to supply OEM.

Too many options

Having so many options to choose from can create confusion such that choosing a replacement for a simple part becomes a big chore.

However, with SRP, this problem can be taken care of easily because you are guaranteed only good quality replacement and we can advise you on which parts are best for your vehicle if you’re unsure.

So if you’re wondering whether to buy aftermarket car parts, know that aftermarket parts or OEM equivalent parts are just as good as OEM parts. Often, even better.

Getting an aftermarket part does not affect your car’s original warranty. Sometimes your insurance will provide for the type of part replacement to use. This usually determines which part to go for. Most insurance policies opt for aftermarket replacements because they are as good as OEM parts and cost less.

Where Can I Buy Aftermarket Parts?

You can buy top quality aftermarket parts online at Smart Replacement Parts (SRP). At SRP, you get that extra level of protection and assurance with every part you purchase. We sell aftermarket parts online that are designed to meet, and even beat, the standard quality set by the original manufacturer.

We will help you deal with the guesswork by recommending just what your car needs. Mechanical workshops across the country trust us to deliver only the best replacement parts and even car dealerships and mechanics trust our parts when they can no longer supply OEM.

So contact us today for smart parts replacements and check out our array of aftermarket car parts online.