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OEM Tag | Aftermarket Body Parts

Mar 17
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Do Aftermarket Car Parts Have the Same Quality as OEM Parts?

By Aftermarket, OEM

When you go to the dealer for a car repair, you’ll almost always get parts from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). On the other hand, visiting an independent car repair shop will give you a choice between OEM and aftermarket parts. 

Picking between these parts requires careful consideration of the benefits and drawbacks of each option.

OEM Parts

The same manufacturer who made the original part also makes the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) vehicle parts. Many car and truck companies offer several tiers of the parts, including the highest quality ones that only they make.

These parts carry a warranty, usually for twelve months or 12,000 to 50,000 miles, and vehicle owners can purchase them directly from the manufacturer or a car dealer. OEM parts are designed to fit the vehicle, and the car’s computer system recognizes them automatically.

Aftermarket Parts

Aftermarket car body parts serve to fit a number of vehicles and are not made by the same car manufacturer. For example, a different manufacturer or a company that reverse-engineered a part that the car uses can make these parts. 

These are usually less expensive than OEM parts, and some aftermarket parts are quite similar to OEM parts in appearance, fit, and function. However, you need to be careful about scrutinizing the quality of aftermarket parts as it varies widely. 

A study commissioned by the Department of Transportation found that nearly half of all recalls were for aftermarket parts in some cases. In other words, aftermarket parts are not always a good choice for your car. 

Some examples of aftermarket parts include:

  • Brake shoes
  • Sensors
  • Alternators
  • Belts and hoses
  • Headlight bulbs
  • Air filters
  • Valvetrain components
  • Drive axles
  • Fuel pumps

What Makes Aftermarket Parts Different?

Several factors make aftermarket parts different from OEM parts. Aftermarket parts are not always designed to fit the vehicle. Auto manufacturers often use parts designed to fit a wide range of cars, which results in problems if the aftermarket part doesn’t fit your specific vehicle. 

In addition, aftermarket part manufacturers don’t have to go through the rigorous testing that OEM parts must pass to be certified as safe and legal for use.

For these reasons, aftermarket parts are not always as safe as OEM parts, and they are not always made of high-quality materials. Sometimes, aftermarket parts don’t last as long as the original parts.

How to Choose between OEM and Aftermarket Parts

If you are faced with choosing between an aftermarket and OEM part, you must weigh the quality and cost of the parts and decide whether it is worth the gamble to select an aftermarket option. You can do this by considering a few things:

  • Look into the Warranty

OEM parts usually come with a warranty. As long as it is within the warranty period, you can get the part replaced if it is defective. 

For example, if your alternator breaks, you can get a new one from the manufacturer under warranty. On the other hand, aftermarket parts usually do not carry a warranty. If you receive a part that doesn’t work, you have no recourse for a refund or replacement.

  • Consider the Difference in Quality

OEM parts usually have higher quality than aftermarket parts. In some cases, aftermarket parts are as high quality as OEM parts. In general, however, it makes sense to choose OEM parts unless you have a specific reason to go with aftermarket ones.

How to Know if Parts Are OEM or Aftermarket

Unfortunately, there are no reliable ways to distinguish between OEM and aftermarket parts. In some cases, the parts are labeled as either OEM or aftermarket. For example, aftermarket fuel pumps are often marked on the box. However, in other circumstances, there is no way to tell what you are getting.

Conclusion

In most situations, it is best to go with OEM parts. This can help you ensure that the part will fit your vehicle and last for a long time. On the other hand, you can also opt for aftermarket car parts because of their benefits. In this case, make sure you choose a supplier with reliable service and an outstanding reputation. If you need aftermarket auto body parts in Los Angeles, go to Kar Parts Direct. We are your one-stop-shop for CAPA and aftermarket body parts. Check out our products today!

Dec 13
Love0

Aftermarket Parts VS OEM, Which to Choose

By Aftermarket

When your car is in dire need of an update or repair, you have the choice over the source of its parts: from the original manufacturer parts (OEM), aftermarket, or salvaged. OEM refers to the exact copy of the parts in your car, while salvaged parts are pieces that were recycled from another car. We’re here to shed more light on the most commonly overlooked component: the aftermarket auto parts.

What are Aftermarket Parts?

As the moniker suggests, aftermarket parts are replacement pieces for your car that are sourced from third parties instead of the original equipment manufacturer. Similar to generic pharmaceuticals, aftermarket parts are generally cost-friendlier while offering similar quality and effectiveness.

These parts are meant for replacing damaged parts in automobiles, though it may tweak the coverage of an insured item. Fortunately, you can easily follow a guideline set by the Certified Automobile Parts Association (CAPA). They establish the golden standard regarding aftermarket parts to ensure safety and high performance after installations.

What are the Benefits of Aftermarket Parts?

The amount of money you can save by utilizing aftermarket parts make it highly favorable among insurance companies and body shops when repairing vehicles. That means in case you need to update or repair your vehicle, aftermarket parts ensure that you and your insurance provider can save money down the line.

Consequently, insurance companies that maximize the cost-effectiveness of aftermarket parts can also reduce their losses and payout less in claims. Other benefits include the following:

● Aftermarket parts are more cost-effective than OEM for all parties involved.
● Aftermarket parts are easily accessible and readily available.
● Aftermarket parts offer reliable and longer-lasting warranties than OEM or salvaged parts.

What are Your Rights Regarding Aftermarket Parts?

The laws and regulations concerning aftermarket parts vary from state-to-state. Depending on the insurance industry in your area, some allow the use of generic or aftermarket parts without acquiring the consent of consumers. Other states require the insurance provider to notify the consumer if non-OEM parts were used when repairing or upgrading their vehicle.

How Does Aftermarket Parts Work?

Depending on the state, repair shops use competitive replacement or aftermarket parts to save on the costs of the repair without compromising its quality. This includes custom paint jobs, installation of different wheel rims, upgrading stereo systems, detailing, and more.
Moving forward, insurance companies can alter the policy’s coverage. It covers the custom parts and equipment provision, which provides financial aid for any damages to the aftermarket parts.

Why Some Choose Aftermarket Parts Over OEM

Many people are hesitant to opt for aftermarket parts due to questions regarding their quality, though auto experts prove that most parts are on par with OEM. With that in mind, drivers and vehicle owners may prefer aftermarket parts due to its host of benefits.

In addition to being the more cost-effective choice, sometimes it is the only option. Older models of cars have limited parts for repair, but aftermarket parts solve the problem as they are more readily accessible than OEM parts.

If you are looking for aftermarket auto body parts in Los Angeles, get in touch with us today! We’re happy to help.

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