Automotive Parts FAQ – OEM vs Aftermarket
There may be some instances in which you want or need to buy new auto parts for your car or truck. To help you out, we’ve asked our automotive service and parts gurus a few frequently asked questions. This is what they said.
Should I Buy OEM Parts?
OEM auto parts is how we talk about the “Original Equipment Manufacturer” parts. They are created for specific car or truck models by the OEM. These are the exactly-matching parts that your vehicle has. They come with a manufacturer’s warranty. Dealerships use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to find the correct part for your car, truck, or SUV.
- Quality: These manufacturer branded product parts insure reliable quality and performance.
- Warranty: These automobiles parts come with a warranty.
- Price: These top of the line parts can cost more than comparative aftermarket products.
- Availability: Certified Parts Centers typically order certain parts from the manufacturer. This can take a few days if it is not already in stock.
Should I Get Aftermarket Auto Parts?
An aftermarket part is any car or truck part that does not come directly from the vehicle’s maker, or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). These car parts are certainly less-expensive for your vehicle’s repair and mechanical advancements. Online retailers and independent, local shops generally (though not necessarily) offer a wide variety of aftermarket car parts. These parts are made to function similarly as the OEM versions. Aftermarket automotive parts, however, have their own pros and cons.
- Quality: Low prices often suggest a lack of quality
- Warranty: Aftermarket parts don’t come with a warranty
- Price: These automobile parts can be less costly than manufacturer parts
- Availability: Most car-repair shops have these parts readily available
Which Parts Are Most Expensive to Repair?
While basic automotive part costs range from $150 to $500, some auto part repairs can actually break an average typical budget.
The automobile parts most expensive to service are:
- Hybrid battery – $6,000 and up
- Cylinders – Up to $10,000
- Transmissions – $4,000 to $5,000
- Suspensions – Up to $3,000
- Brake Lines – $1,000
When Should You Request OEM Parts?
Always purchase OEM parts for collision repairs. Aftermarket automotive parts may not fit securely when your car has damaged body panels after a accident. Plus, installing aftermarket parts may void your leasing vehicle warranty. Therefore, always use manufacturer parts for all lease vehicle repairs.
Who Installs Aftermarket Parts?
Bring your aftermarket auto part to a local car dealership to get it installed. Before installation, a service technician at the service center will check the aftermarket auto part to check if it is a match for your car. Even if they install the aftermarket auto part, however, the auto dealer can only warranty the labor.
What Car Parts Are Covered or Not Covered By Warranty?
A comprehensive auto manufacturer’s warranty necessarily doesn’t cover all auto parts. Car buyers, however, can generally choose something like a factory warranty, an extended warranty, or bumper-to-bumper for the most comprehensive coverage. Even for an extended warranty, all your car’s parts may not be covered. Here is a list of what’s covered and what’s not.
Covered Under Powertrain Warranty
- Transmission
- Gaskets
- Engine
- Transfer Case
- Axles
Covered Under Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty
- All major vehicle systems
- AC and heating
- Safety features
- High-tech systems
Covered By Extended Warranty
Extends coverage of all items under original Factory Warranty
Not Covered Under Warranty
- Accidental damage
- Body panel or exterior damage
- Scheduled maintenance
- Environmental damage
- Wear and tear items
- Interior damage
Is Amazon a Good Place to Get Car Parts?
Undoubtedly, Amazon is a reputed online marketplace that provides shoppers with an easy and convenient place to find quality auto parts. While most auto parts sold by Amazon are from reliable sources, it can be a challenge for you to know if you’re getting the right product for your vehicle since you are not dealing directly with an auto expert.
Is Craigslist a Reliable Place to Order Auto Parts?
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.
Can You Buy Vehicle Parts at The Auto Dealer?
Yes. The car dealer is one of the best places to order car parts. Most car and truck dealerships only sell standard OEM manufacturer parts. Most of all, they can help you find specific parts for your vehicle with its VIN .