When you're shopping for parts to repair your own car, one of the decisions you'll be asked to make is whether you want aftermarket or original equipment. Original equipment is the term used for parts that are made by the original manufacturer. For example, if you own a Saab vehicle, then you could repair your vehicle with OEM Saab parts, rather than someone who is replicating those parts. If you've been thinking about what is the best for your situation, here are a few things to consider about why original equipment is the best way for you to go.
You Know Where It Comes From
One of the best parts of choosing original equipment is the fact that there's no question about where that part comes from. You know exactly who made it, which means you don't have to worry about its quality or the chances that it was imported from a substandard manufacturer. You'll know exactly who produced it, which makes it easier to trace its actual manufacturing process.
You Know It Has Been Tested
Rigorous testing is required for all of the original equipment that's manufactured for vehicles in the United States. These tests are not mandated for aftermarket parts. That ensures that original equipment you buy is safe and has been tested to ensure that. You can't ever be sure of that when you buy aftermarket parts. If you want to have some certainty that the parts you invest in are going to be safe and durable, opt for original equipment.
They Come With Good Warranties
The warranties on original equipment are typically more extensive, thorough, and long-lasting than those offered for aftermarket equipment. Given that original equipment goes through such rigorous testing and treatment, the manufacturers stand behind them with a much stronger faith than that of most aftermarket producers. If you want to save on repair costs due to failures and other manufacturing issues, opt for original equipment instead of aftermarket parts.
Must Meet Specific Standards
One of the biggest differences between original equipment and aftermarket parts is the actual production standard. Original equipment is held to much different standards than aftermarket equipment is. The parts produced by the original manufacturers must meet those strict standards, which means you're getting quality parts. Since aftermarket parts aren't held to those standards, there is no guarantee that the parts will be high quality.
As you can see, there are many reasons why you should consider original equipment for your car's replacement parts. Talk with your local auto parts manufacturer about what your choices are and make your selection accordingly.