Is it a good idea to buy aftermarket, or is it better to play it safe and go for OEM parts? Often, when debating this question, an important factor is weighing up how long this part will last, and that will help determine the outcome, but there are many other factors that need to be considered. Below, we will look largely at buying aftermarket parts and what you should consider before doing so.
What should you choose, OEM or aftermarket parts?
There are two sides to consider here. On the one hand, the original equipment manufacturer’s parts are built to meet the same standards as the parts in the car from when they were built. So, you’re assured that the parts will work properly, that they will fit, and that they will last. However, OEM parts’ downsides are that they are typically more expensive than aftermarket parts because they come from the original manufacturer. So, if you value consistency and assured quality, the OEM parts are ideal.
On the other hand, aftermarket spares may be just as good in terms of quality. Aftermarket spares are car parts manufactured by third-party manufacturers who design their parts by using the blueprints of OEM parts. While some of these parts are great, the number of after-market suppliers can make finding quality parts challenging.
The risk with aftermarket parts is you may buy parts that are below quality standards. As a result, these parts might wear and tear sooner, leaving you in the same position as you were in a month or two before. If you find an aftermarket manufacturer known for producing quality parts with a warranty, then aftermarket parts are a good idea for you. The best part of aftermarket spares is that they are also more reasonably priced.
The advantages of buying aftermarket parts
We may have touched on a few reasons to invest in aftermarket spares above, but here is a deeper look at why buying aftermarket parts may benefit you.
1. Widely available
One of the reasons car owners normally prefer aftermarket spares is that they are widely available. You may have numerous brands manufacturing the same parts at different prices, offering you a wider variety of choices and prices to match each person’s budget. Additionally, availability means you may get the parts sooner if stuck without a car for a day or two.
In general, if you want immediate access to OEM parts, you must take your car to a certified mechanic for your vehicle brand. Even then, they may need to order the product, causing you to wait. However, because aftermarket parts are more available, you might find it easier to find parts and have them delivered to you sooner.
2. Opportunity to customise
With OEM parts, what you see is what you get. Fortunately, with aftermarket parts, you can buy spares that improve or limit your vehicle performance, allowing you a level of customizability that OEM parts don’t allow you to do.
3. Range of quality
We’ve mentioned this briefly, but aftermarket parts come in various qualities, which often correspond with price differences, too. Those with a tight budget and need their vehicle daily can opt for lower-priced spares at a lower cost. This makes spares more accessible to people with different financial backgrounds.
4. More access to features
Again, OEM parts limit you to the features that come with their car. You must get what the manufacturer offers if you want an OEM infotainment system. However, many aftermarket alternatives are far better, more advanced, and fancier than you could have installed into your car. For example, this may include reverse cameras, sensors, and infotainment systems with Apple car play or Android Auto or mechanical parts that allow you to improve your car’s performance, too.
Key considerations to make when buying aftermarket parts
When it comes down to choosing aftermarket spares, one does need to practice some discernment. Some parts may be bad quality. So, to ensure you make a good purchase, here are some considerations you need to make:
- Is the part fully compatible with your car?
- Does it come with a warranty?
- What is the manufacturer’s customer service like?
- Does using this part of an impact on your insurance in any way?
Buying from the right supplier
One of the biggest advantages of the last decade and a half has been the improvements to online shopping. Buying the right parts has always been important, but you often have to go into a shop to do it yourself or have someone do it for you. Nowadays, online aftermarket car parts from stores like My Auto Parts allow you to purchase what you want or need without the hassle of going through a mechanic, often saving you time and money.
Final thoughts
When buying car parts, you want to buy them right the first time. With the range of aftermarket parts on the market, they’re often easier to get, and you have a variety of prices to consider. While it’s great having options, it also increases your potential to make a bad purchase. With the points above, you can navigate buying car spares online or from your local retailer without hassles.
