When making repairs to your vehicle, you have two options available to you, OEM parts and aftermarket. Auto enthusiasts have long debated OEM vs. aftermarket parts and which is the right option, and the truth is that it depends. Before purchasing parts for your car, get to know the differences between OEM and aftermarket parts and build an understanding of when each option is best for your situation.
What Are OEM Parts?
OEM parts are the products that come standard on your vehicle off the factory line. Many people wonder what is OEM parts and why they are often recommended. These parts have been carefully tested and verified to be compatible with your vehicle. When using OEM parts, no research is necessary when you get the right matching product because it's the only OEM option available for your vehicle.
OEM components must meet industry standards, and they are built for durability. By investing in OEM components, you get parts that behave and look exactly like the originals. This is a good thing if you don't understand how to judge parts' quality yourself, but OEM components often come with a higher price tag than aftermarket products do.
What Are Aftermarket Car Parts?
An aftermarket car part is a component that's made by a company other than the original car manufacturer. These components are produced by hundreds of different manufacturers and offered at a wide range of quality levels. Many are more affordable than OEM parts are, and some offer a lower cost while meeting the same quality as the OEM components.
It's important to realize that aftermarket components aren't as closely regulated as OEM parts are. Many of these parts are high quality, but some are inferior to their OEM alternatives. When working with aftermarket components, you must be careful to research the brand and learn about the specific products as well. By relying on aftermarket parts from proven providers, you get access to components that will enhance your vehicle.
When looking at different aftermarket components, consider the warranty offered for the product as well as the specific features and the materials used. If you're willing to spend the time to do this research, you can identify high-quality components that will work well on your vehicle.
Deciding Which Parts Are Right For Your Circumstance
OEM components are the right choice in some circumstances and aftermarket parts are better in others. Depending on your auto repair or upgrade situation, you will have to decide which option is best.
OEM Parts are Best for Accident Repair
Most insurance companies prefer that drivers and garages use OEM components when making repairs to a vehicle that's covered by insurance. This is especially important when having repairs done on an accident that wasn't your fault. Insurance companies generally prefer OEM components because they are more closely regulated, and they aren't considered as much of a risk as aftermarket components are. Even though OEM parts are generally required for insurance repairs, you can ask about aftermarket parts and use an accident as a way to upgrade your vehicle in some cases.
Consider OEM for Simplicity
If you don't know which aftermarket parts brands to trust and you aren't sure about which parts specifications are best for your vehicle, investing in OEM parts is the simple solution. When you get these components, you know you're getting the original quality that your vehicle started with. These components are more carefully regulated, and you don't have to worry about reducing the quality of your vehicle.
Save Money with Aftermarket Components
One of the best ways to reduce the cost of a vehicle repair is to invest in an aftermarket component instead. If you're careful to choose a product from a well-regarded brand that's made of similar materials and that offers a respectable warranty, you can save money while fixing your vehicle. Be careful to avoid parts from companies with a poor reputation. Also, avoid working with companies that don't warranty their products at all. If you are careful when choosing the source of your aftermarket components, you can avoid the most common problems while saving money on your repairs.
Make Repairs Sooner with Aftermarket Products
OEM components are generally more difficult to obtain than aftermarket parts. This is because OEM products are made by a single manufacturer, and aftermarket parts are made by dozens of different companies. With so many different suppliers available to choose from, it's easier to obtain repair parts faster when you opt for aftermarket components. Many OEM parts come with a delay when they're ordered, and some may be back ordered or difficult to obtain at all.
Enhance Performance or Durability Using Aftermarket Parts
An aftermarket car part isn't just a way to save money on a vehicle upgrade; it's a way to enhance the quality of your ride as well. Whether you're outfitting your vehicle for intense off-roading or you want performance improvements on your sports car, aftermarket parts can outperform OEM components. There are many aftermarket components made from better materials and engineered to perform at a higher level than the OEM component.
Many of these superior aftermarket components come at a higher cost than the OEM component, but they often come with better warranties, superior materials, and a better-engineered design. Getting familiar with companies that stand behind their products and deliver on peak performance will help you get the best results when you opt to go with aftermarket parts.
Both OEM and aftermarket automotive components can work well in specific situations. Neither is best for every circumstance, so it's important to understand the benefits and downsides of each. Now that you know, you can choose the right parts for your situation each time. Consider your budget, when you need to repair, and the availability of parts before deciding whether you want OEM or aftermarket parts.
When searching for high-quality aftermarket upgrades for your vehicle, JEGS offers high-performance products. JEGS parts are warranted and built to last. Obtain upgraded components through the online store and catalog for convenience.
