OEM Parts vs. Aftermarket Parts | Which is the Better Option?

When your vehicle needs repairs or scheduled maintenance, you have two main options on what parts you will be using for the job. You can choose parts from the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), or you can choose to go with aftermarket parts. If you have trouble deciding which of these options is best for your situation, our service experts at Beaver Toyota of Cumming can help you out.

What’s the Difference Between OEM Parts and Aftermarket Parts?

To help you better understand which auto parts to choose for your vehicle, you need to know the difference between the two. Take a look at the pros and cons of each auto part to help you make your decision.

Pros Of OEM Parts

• OEM parts are made to a specific standard, and you know that you will be getting a well-made part designed specifically for your vehicle.
• OEM parts almost always come with a warranty for at least a year. Some service centers will even warranty their work for as long as the manufacturer’s part warranty lasts.
• It is easier to find OEM parts for your specific vehicle. For example, all you need to do is visit our Toyota service center and tell an expert what parts you need.

Cons Of OEM Parts

• It is challenging to find genuine OEM parts outside of going to a service center at a dealership.
• The service center may not have the parts you are looking for in stock right away. This can take days to order the desired parts you need.
• OEM parts tend to demand a higher price for the quality that they provide.

Pros of Aftermarket Parts

• Aftermarket parts can be easy to find if you drive a mass-produced vehicle or a vehicle seen to be desirable. Your local auto shop may have the parts you need for repair or maintenance readily available instead of having to special order them.
• Aftermarket parts can help you customize your vehicle. Popular vehicles will have healthy aftermarket communities full of parts you can use to upgrade the performance or change the look of your vehicle.
• Aftermarket parts can save you money, and they may be even higher quality than OEM parts. Many times aftermarket parts are specifically designed to fix a flaw in the OEM design.

Cons of Aftermarket Parts

• The quality is not assured. You are taking a high risk with aftermarket parts, especially ones that do not come with a warranty. Some aftermarket parts are made as cheaply as possible because of their mass production, which can lead to premature part failure.
• You need to do extensive research to find quality aftermarket parts manufacturers for your vehicle.
• It is not guaranteed that the aftermarket parts you want for your vehicle are the right match for your vehicle. For example, if you purchase new brake pads, you might notice a screeching sound shortly after leaving the lot. This could indicate that the brake pads are not designed for your specific vehicle and can make you take several trips to find the issue with your car.

When To Use Each Kind of Parts

If you do the research, aftermarket parts can be used for most basic maintenance and repairs. If your vehicle requires repairs for its integral systems, we recommend going with OEM parts. OEM parts are also preferable for bodywork, as the OEM panels will provide the best fit.

Overall, both OEM and aftermarket parts have their place. OEM parts are best used if you want your vehicle to be as dependable as the manufacturer intended. Aftermarket parts can save you money upfront, and they can be used to customize your vehicle.

If you need maintenance or repairs for your vehicle, you can always stop by or contact us at Beaver Toyota of Cumming. Our team of expert technicians will answer all of your questions regarding OEM and aftermarket parts while also guiding you to the parts that best fit your situation.