There are some times that you may need or want to buy new auto parts for your car or truck. To help you choose, we’ve asked our automotive service and parts experts some frequently asked questions. This is what they had to say.
OEM auto parts are the “Original Equipment Manufacturer” parts. They are created for the specific car, truck, and SUV models by the OEM. These are the exactly-matching parts that your vehicle has. They include a manufacturer’s warranty. Dealerships use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to find the correct part for your car, truck, or SUV.
These manufacturer branded product parts provide performance and quality.
These automobiles parts come with a manufacturer warranty.
These top of the line auto parts can cost more than comparative aftermarket parts.
Auto Dealers generally order certain parts from the manufacturer. If not already in stock, it may take a few days to get it in.
An aftermarket part is any part for a car, truck, or SUV that is not provided directly from the vehicle’s manufacturer, or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). These auto parts are certainly less-expensive choices for the repair of your car, truck, SUV, or minivan and advancements. Independent, local shops and online retailers generally (though not necessarily) offer a selection of aftermarket car parts. These car parts are created to function similarly to the OEM versions. However, aftermarket automobile parts have their own pros and cons.
Low prices could suggest a lower quality
Aftermarket parts are not warrantied
These automotive parts can be less costly than the manufacturer/OEM parts
Most car-repair shops have these parts readily available
While most basic auto parts range between $150 to $500, some automobile part repairs can break an average typical budget.
Always purchase OEM Manufacturer parts when it comes to collision repair. non-manufacturer car parts may not fit securely when your car has damaged body panels after a accident. Plus, an aftermarket part installation may void your leasing vehicle warranty. Therefore, always use OEM parts for all types of vehicle repairs if you have a leased car.
A comprehensive auto warranty doesn’t cover every single part. Car buyers, however, can generally choose something like an extended warranty, bumper-to-bumper, or factory warranty for the most comprehensive coverage. Even with an extended warranty, all of your car’s parts will likely not be covered. Here is a list of what’s covered and what’s not.
Craigslist is not an auto retailer; but on this online platform, third-party vendors sell automotive parts. For this reason, the quality cannot be guaranteed. If you are buying car parts from this source, make sure to research, verify, and compare before the purchase.
Undoubtedly, Amazon is a reputed online marketplace that provides shoppers with a convenient and easy platform to find quality car parts. While most car and truck parts sold by Amazon are from trusted sources, it can be a challenge to know if you’re getting the correct item for your car since you are not dealing directly with an auto service center.
Yes, you can always order automotive parts at the dealership. Most car and truck dealers only sell standard OEM manufacturer parts. Most of all, they can help you find specific parts for your vehicle with its vehicle identification .
You can always bring your own auto parts to a auto dealership. However, the dealer will not be able to warranty the part you’ve purchased, nor will they be able to guarantee its performance. It is highly recommended to get your vehicle checked by an experienced service center at a local car dealer before purchasing any auto parts for installation. The certified technician will also be able to diagnose the actual problem and order the required replacement part, if needed.
Bring your aftermarket auto part to a local auto dealer for installation. Before installation, a service technician will check the aftermarket auto part to check if it is a match for your vehicle. Even if they install the aftermarket part, however, the auto dealership can only provide a warranty on the labor.
Pros vs Cons Auto Parts: OEM vs Aftermarket Auto Parts FAQ | Kearny Mesa Volkswagen