OEM parts vs. Aftermarket parts

When you take your car to the dealership's service department for repairs, you know you're getting Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) car parts. However, if you take your car to an independent shop, you'll most likely get aftermarket car parts. Is there anything wrong with that? Does a less expensive part mean a poorer-quality part? And in what situations should you use only OEM parts?
To answer these questions, we've created a list of pros and cons to help you make a more informed decision when choosing what parts go into your car. In this way, you can strike a balance between cost and quality.
Aftermarket PartsAn aftermarket part is any part for a vehicle that is not sourced from the car's maker. A number of companies make parts designed to function the same, or in some cases even better than the original.
PROS
Less expensive:
Quality can be equal to or greater than OEM:
More variety:
Better availability: You can walk into any gas station, auto parts store or local mechanic, and they're bound to have a part that fits your car. This gives you more options on where to take your car for service. There are hundreds of companies that make aftermarket parts. Some specialize in specific parts, and other companies, like In some cases, you may end up with a better part than you started with. For example, when an automaker designs its brake pads, it has to strike a balance between cost, durability, noise levels and performance. If you want better performance and don't mind some extra brake noise (some brake pads squeak even though they are stopping the car effectively), an aftermarket pad may be your best choice. Aftermarket parts are usually less expensive than OEM parts; how much you save varies by brand. CONS
Quality varies greatly:
Overwhelming selection: If you're not familiar with aftermarket brands, the selection could be overwhelming, and there's some chance you may get a bad quality part. Even a part as simple as a spark plug can be made by dozens of different companies and comes in numerous variations. Consult your mechanic for advice or simply stick with the OEM part when the price difference isn't significant. The saying "you get what you pay for" rings true here. Some aftermarket parts are inferior because of the use of lower-quality materials. Stick with aftermarket brands you're familiar with or are recommended by a mechanic you trust, even if these parts cost a bit more. OEM PartsOEM parts are made by the vehicle's manufacturer. These match the parts that came with your vehicle when it rolled off the assembly line.
PROS
Easier to choose your part:
Greater assurance of quality: The OEM part should work exactly as the one you are replacing. It is what the vehicle was manufactured with and provides a peace of mind in its familiarity and performance. If you go to the parts counter at a dealership and ask for any part, you'll usually get one type. You don't have to worry about assessing the quality of different brands and prices. CONS
More expensive:
Need to be bought at the dealership: Even though there are other ways of buying OEM parts (eBay, online wholesalers), most people will go to a dealership to buy their car parts. You can request OEM parts from your local mechanic, but it may take longer to get your vehicle repaired since the parts must be ordered. OEM parts will usually cost more than an aftermarket part. Which Is the Best Way To Go?All aftermarket parts are not created equal — but all OEM parts are. This creates its own set of advantages and disadvantages. If you're familiar with a number of brands or work on your own car, aftermarket parts can save you a lot of money. If you're not familiar with aftermarket brands and don't mind paying a bit extra for that peace of mind, OEM is a good choice for you.


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