The auto spare part market can be daunting to navigate if you are a newbie.
You can find four types: OEM, Aftermarket, Recycled, and Remanufactured auto parts.
Each of these has its pros and cons.
Consequently, your choice of auto parts can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance, safety, longevity, and cost of ownership.
This article will provide a concise overview of each of them and help you make an informed decision about fixing your car.
Let’s begin!
What Are OEM Parts?
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. They are made by the same manufacturer that produced the original parts for the vehicle when it was first built.
These parts are often sold through authorized dealerships or repair shops and are generally considered the highest-quality replacements available. When deciding between aftermarket vs OEM parts, car owners will have to weigh the cost savings of aftermarket parts against the higher quality and reliability of OEM parts.
OEM Pros
- OEM parts are usually backed by a manufacturer’s warranty, which can give vehicle owners peace of mind knowing that the part is covered if it fails.
- OEM parts are typically considered the safest option because they are designed to work specifically with your vehicle.
OEM Cons
- The primary downside of OEM parts is their cost, which can be significantly higher than aftermarket or recycled parts.
- Because OEM parts only come from the real maker, they may be more difficult to find if they no longer produce them.
What Are Aftermarket Auto Parts? Pros and Cons
Aftermarket auto parts are made by third-party manufacturers, not the original equipment manufacturer. These parts are designed to fit and function in the same way as OEM parts, but they may have some differences in quality, design, or materials.
Aftermarket Auto Parts Pros
- Aftermarket parts are often less expensive than OEM parts, making them a more budget-friendly option for vehicle owners.
- Because aftermarket plants are not bound by the same restrictions as OEM manufacturers, they may be able to produce higher quality or more specialized parts.
Aftermarket Auto Parts Cons
- Aftermarket parts quality can vary greatly depending on the maker. Some manufacturers may cut corners to reduce costs, resulting in lower quality or less durable products.
- Aftermarket parts may not be designed specifically for your vehicle; there is a greater risk of not fitting or functioning properly. This can lead to poor performance, reduced safety, and even damage to your vehicle.
If you choose to use aftermarket parts, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable manufacturer to ensure you get a quality product that meets your needs.
What Are Recycled Auto Parts and What Are They Used For?
Recycled auto parts, also known as used or salvaged parts, are parts that have been removed from another vehicle and then reconditioned for reuse.
These parts can come from vehicles that have been in accidents, have been retired, or have undergone upgrades or modifications.
Recycled auto parts can include anything from engine components and body parts to interior accessories and electronics. They are often sold through salvage yards; some auto repair shops use recycled parts to repair vehicles.
Recycled Auto Parts Pros
- Recycled auto parts are often significantly less expensive than new OEM or aftermarket parts. This can be a great option for vehicle owners looking to save money on repairs.
- They can also be a good option for environmentally conscious vehicle owners, as reusing parts helps to reduce waste and conserve resources.
Recycled Auto Parts Cons
- Their quality can vary greatly depending on the condition of the part and how it was reconditioned. What’s more, there is always a risk that they may not function properly or may have hidden damage that is hard to spot.
- Recycled auto parts are commonly used for older or less expensive vehicles that may not be worth investing in new OEM or aftermarket parts.
Suppose you choose to use recycled auto parts. In that case, you must go with a reputable salvage yard or auto body repair. These professionals have experience working with different types of parts.
What Are Remanufactured Auto Parts?
If you were looking at auto parts online and came across one labeled “remanufactured,” you might be tempted to ask the sales representative, “What does remanufactured mean?”
Well, they are also known as reconditioned or refurbished parts that have been completely disassembled, cleaned, and rebuilt using new or re-machined components to meet or exceed OEM specifications. This process involves extensive testing and inspection to ensure the part functions and a new OEM part.
They are often sold through authorized dealerships or specialized remanufacturing companies.
Remanufactured Auto Parts Pros
- The advantage of using remanufactured auto parts is that they are typically less expensive than new OEM parts while still offering high quality and reliability.
Remanufactured Auto Parts Cons
- Remanufactured parts may not be available for all types of vehicles or parts.
- The remanufacturing process can vary depending on the part and the company. Consequently, the quality and reliability of the parts can vary.
Conclusion
We hope this blog post helped you understand the difference between OEM, aftermarket, recycled, and remanufactured auto parts and the pros and cons of each.
Depending on your needs and budget, one of these options may be better suited for your repair than the others. When choosing a part, it is important to look at quality and reliability to ensure it will last.
Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your individual needs, vehicle make and model, car part function, repair complexity, availability at local suppliers or online shops—and cost.
As always, if you need extra help finding the best car parts for your vehicle repairs, don’t hesitate to talk to an auto body shop mechanic or call us here at MagicTouchMiami.