When it comes to repairing or maintaining a vehicle, one of the biggest decisions you'll have to make is whether to use OEM or aftermarket parts. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, which means the parts are made by the same company that made the original parts for your vehicle. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, are made by other manufacturers and are designed to fit and function like the original parts. There are some key differences between OEM and aftermarket parts that it always helps to be aware of before making a decision between the two. We run the UK’s premier online car auction website for used, salvaged and seized vehicles here at RAW2K, so we know how these differences can affect you!
Quality and reliability
OEM parts are generally considered to be of higher quality and more reliable than aftermarket parts. This is because they are made to the same exacting standards as the original parts, and are tested to ensure they meet or exceed those standards. OEM parts are also designed to work seamlessly with the rest of your vehicle's components, which can lead to better overall performance.
Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, can vary greatly in terms of quality and reliability. Some aftermarket parts are made to the same standards as OEM parts and may even be of higher quality. However, many aftermarket parts are made from cheaper materials and may not be as durable or reliable as OEM parts. That’s why it’s so important to do your research when choosing a vehicle from our varied selection, as you’ll want to know exactly what kind of parts you’ll be getting from any of the scrap vehicles we stock here.
Cost differences
OEM parts are generally more expensive than aftermarket parts. This is because OEM parts are made by the same company that made your vehicle, and they have to recoup their research and development costs. Additionally, OEM parts may only be available from a dealership, which can also add to the cost.
Aftermarket parts are generally less expensive than OEM parts. This is because aftermarket manufacturers can produce parts in larger quantities and may not have the same research and development costs as OEM manufacturers. Additionally, aftermarket parts are often available from a variety of sources, which can lead to lower prices. And as we discussed above, there’s a chance that the aftermarket parts may be of lower quality than their OEM counterparts.
Warranty issues
Here’s something always worth knowing – if your vehicle is still under warranty, using aftermarket parts to repair it can void the warranty. This is because the manufacturer can argue that the use of aftermarket parts caused damage to the vehicle. OEM parts, on the other hand, are covered by the manufacturer's warranty, because these are parts that they’ve designed, tested and manufactured themselves.
Fit and compatibility
OEM parts are designed to fit and function perfectly with your vehicle, and are made to the same specifications as the original parts. Aftermarket parts may be designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, which can lead to compatibility issues. Additionally, some aftermarket parts may require modifications to your vehicle in order to fit properly. Ultimately, both OEM and aftermarket parts have their advantages and disadvantages. OEM parts are generally of higher quality and more reliable, but they come at a higher cost. Aftermarket parts are generally less expensive, but their quality and compatibility can vary greatly. It's important to do your research and choose the option that is best for your specific situation.
We’ve got a huge range of Category N cars from a range of recognisable brands like Ford, Vauxhall and Volkswagen in our online car auctions for used, seized and salvage cars, so if you’re looking for a vehicle you can scrap for parts, we’re sure to have what you’re looking for. Why not take a look around, and see what you can find?
