OEM vs Aftermarket Car Parts: Pros & Cons

The Pros and Cons of Buying Car Spares

Buying car spares can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not well-versed in the industry. With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide where to purchase these parts from. One option is buying them from dealerships, but this comes with its own set of pros and cons.

Submit a request for any auto part by downloading the Auto EzyFind mobile app or submit a request on the website www.CarSparesEzyFind.co.za . Submit your part request by scanning your vehicle license disc which will populate your VIN number, vehicle make and model & snapping a picture of the car part. We will then send it to all spare shops based on your location. You will then obtain multiple quotes to choose from.
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On the one hand, dealerships offer warranties and guarantees on their car spares, providing peace of mind to customers. They usually have trained technicians who can provide expert advice on these parts. On the other hand, dealerships may charge higher prices compared to other sources and have limited availability of certain parts which may cause inconvenience.

It’‘s important to weigh both the pros and cons before making a decision on where to buy car spares. So whether you’‘re looking for new or used car parts, read on to discover the advantages and disadvantages of buying car spares from dealerships.

OEM vs Aftermarket Mechanical Car Parts: Advantages and Disadvantages

One of the most important decisions you’‘ll make is whether to buy OEM or aftermarket mechanical car parts. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, which means that the parts are made by the same company that made your vehicle. On the other hand, aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers.

What are OEM car parts?

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OEM car parts are made by the original manufacturer and are guaranteed to fit and function properly. These parts may be more expensive than aftermarket options, but they offer better quality and reliability. Since they’‘re made by the same company as your vehicle, you can be sure that they’‘ll work seamlessly with your car’‘s existing systems.

One of the biggest advantages of using OEM car parts is their quality. Since they’‘re designed specifically for your make and model, you can trust that they’‘ll perform as intended. Many OEM parts come with a warranty or guarantee from the manufacturer.

However, there are some downsides to using OEM car parts as well. The biggest disadvantage is their cost - since these parts are made by the original manufacturer, they tend to be more expensive than aftermarket alternatives.

What are aftermarket car parts?

Aftermarket car parts are made by third-party manufacturers instead of the original equipment manufacturer. These parts may not be as reliable or durable as OEM options since they weren’‘t designed specifically for your vehicle.

One advantage of using aftermarket car parts is their cost - since these options aren’‘t manufactured by the original equipment maker, they tend to be less expensive than OEM alternatives. This makes them an attractive option for those on a tight budget who still need high-quality replacement auto components.

However, there are also some disadvantages associated with using aftermarket car spares. One potential issue is compatibility - since these components weren’‘t designed specifically for your vehicle, there’‘s always a risk that they won’‘t fit or function properly. Aftermarket parts may not come with a warranty or guarantee from the manufacturer.

Which is better - OEM or aftermarket mechanical car parts?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to use OEM or aftermarket mechanical car parts comes down to your individual needs and budget. If you’‘re willing to pay a premium for quality and reliability, then OEM options are likely the best choice for you. However, if cost is a major concern and you’‘re willing to accept some level of risk in exchange for affordability, then aftermarket car spares may be the way to go.

When deciding between these two options, it’‘s important to consider factors like your vehicle’‘s age and condition, as well as your driving habits. If you drive an older vehicle that’‘s already seen significant wear and tear, then aftermarket parts may be perfectly adequate for your needs. However, if you have a newer vehicle that you rely on daily for transportation, then investing in high-quality OEM components is likely worth the expense.

Premium vs Own-Brand Car Parts: Pros and Cons

Higher Quality and Better Performance with Premium Parts

Premium car parts are often manufactured by the same companies that produce the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. These parts are made with higher-quality materials and undergo more rigorous testing to ensure their performance is on par with or better than OEM parts. This means that premium car parts offer a better driving experience, improved fuel efficiency, and longer-lasting durability.

Premium car parts often come with longer warranties and guarantees compared to own-brand alternatives. This gives drivers peace of mind knowing that they have invested in high-quality components that will last for years to come.

Affordability of Own-Brand Car Parts

While premium car parts may offer superior quality, they also come at a higher cost. For those looking for an affordable alternative, own-brand car parts can be a good option. These components are typically produced by third-party manufacturers rather than the vehicle’‘s original manufacturer.

One advantage of own-brand car parts is their affordability - they can be up to 50% cheaper than their premium counterparts. However, this lower price point may also mean sacrificing quality and performance.

Pros of Premium Car Parts

• High-quality materials and construction

• Rigorous testing ensures optimal performance

• Longer warranties and guarantees provide peace of mind

Pros of Own-Brand Car Parts

• More affordable than premium options

• Widely available from many retailers

Cons of Premium Car Parts

The main disadvantage of premium car parts is their cost - they can be significantly more expensive than own-brand alternatives. Since these components are often made by the same manufacturers as OEM parts, availability may be limited to dealership service centers or authorized repair shops.

Cons of Own-Brand Car Parts

The biggest drawback of own-brand car parts is their potential lack of quality control compared to OEM or premium options. Since these components are produced by third-party manufacturers, there is a risk that they may not meet the same standards for materials and construction as OEM or premium parts. This can lead to reduced performance, shorter lifespans, and increased maintenance costs over time.

Benefits of Purchasing Car Parts from a Store vs Dealership

One of the most important things is ensuring that you are using high-quality parts. While there are many options available for purchasing car parts, two of the most popular choices are stores and dealerships.

Genuine Parts for Your Car Model

One of the biggest advantages of buying car parts from a dealership is that they offer genuine parts that are specifically made for your car model. This means that you can be sure that the part you are purchasing will fit perfectly and work as intended. Genuine parts often come with manufacturer warranties or guarantees, which can give you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected.

On the other hand, stores may offer aftermarket or generic parts that may not be tailored to your specific vehicle model. While these parts may be less expensive than dealer-sold ones, they may not always provide the same level of quality and durability.

Expert Advice from Knowledgeable Staff

Another benefit of purchasing car parts from a dealership is having access to knowledgeable staff who can provide expert advice on which parts to buy. These professionals have extensive knowledge about different types and brands of car parts and can help ensure that you get exactly what you need.

In contrast, some stores may have staff with limited knowledge about cars or automotive repair. However, there are also specialized auto part stores where staff members have expertise in specific areas such as performance upgrades or restoration projects.

Manufacturer Warranties and Guarantees

Dealerships often offer manufacturer warranties and guarantees on their products, which can provide added protection for your investment. These warranties typically cover defects in materials or workmanship for a certain period after purchase.

While some stores may also offer warranties on their products, they may not always be backed by manufacturers themselves. It’‘s important to carefully read the terms and conditions of any warranty or guarantee before making a purchase.

Additional Perks from New Dealerships

Finally, new dealerships may offer additional perks such as free installation or discounts on future services. These perks can help offset the higher cost of purchasing parts from a dealership and make it a more attractive option for some car owners.

However, it’‘s important to note that these perks may not always be available at every dealership and may only apply to certain parts or services.

Online Stores vs Physical Stores for Buying Car Parts

There are two main options: online stores and physical stores. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’‘s important to weigh them carefully before making a decision.

Online Stores Offer a Wider Selection of Car Parts Compared to Physical Stores

One of the biggest advantages of shopping for car parts online is the wider selection available. Online retailers like Amazon offer an extensive range of products from various manufacturers, making it easier to find exactly what you need. You can also browse through multiple websites at once without leaving your home, saving time and effort.

Some online retailers specialize in specific types of car parts or brands, which can be helpful if you’‘re looking for something rare or hard-to-find. However, keep in mind that not all online stores are created equal - some may have limited inventory or unreliable shipping times.

Auto Parts Stores Provide the Convenience of Immediate Access to Parts and Expert Advice

Physical auto parts stores offer several benefits as well. One advantage is immediate access to parts - you don’‘t have to wait for shipping or worry about lost packages. Plus, you can get expert advice from store employees who know the ins and outs of car repairs.

Another advantage is being able to see and touch the part before buying it. This can help ensure that you’‘re getting the right product for your vehicle and reduce the risk of ordering something that doesn’‘t fit or work properly.

However, keep in mind that local auto parts stores may have limited inventory compared to larger chain stores or online retailers.

Online Retailers Like Amazon Offer Competitive Pricing and Fast Shipping Options

Online retailers often offer competitive pricing due to their lower overhead costs compared to brick-and-mortar stores. They also frequently run sales or offer discounts, making it easier to save money on car parts.

Many online retailers offer fast shipping options, with some even providing same-day or next-day delivery. This can be especially helpful if you need a part quickly and don’‘t have time to wait for shipping.

However, keep in mind that some online retailers may charge high shipping fees or have minimum purchase requirements for free shipping.

Local Parts Stores May Have Limited Inventory but Can Provide Personalized Service and Support

Local auto parts stores may not have the same selection as larger chain stores or online retailers. However, they often provide personalized service and support that can be invaluable when working on a car repair project.

Store employees at local parts stores are typically more knowledgeable about specific types of vehicles and can help troubleshoot problems or recommend solutions. They may also be able to order rare or hard-to-find parts for you if they don’‘t carry them in stock.

However, keep in mind that local parts stores may not always have the inventory you need on hand, which could lead to delays in your repair project.

Can You Return a Bad Part to an Online Store?

If you’‘re looking to buy car spares, you might be wondering if it’‘s better to purchase them from a dealership or an online store. While both options have their advantages and disadvantages, buying from an online store can be more convenient and cost-effective. However, one concern that many people have when buying car parts online is whether they can return a bad part.

The answer is yes, but it depends on the online store’‘s return policy. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Check the Return Policy

Before making a purchase from an online store, it’‘s important to check their return policy. Some stores may offer free returns within a certain timeframe while others may charge restocking fees or require you to pay for return shipping. It’‘s also important to note that some items may not be eligible for returns or exchanges.

Additional Costs

Returning a bad part to an online store may require additional costs such as shipping fees and restocking fees. These costs can add up quickly, so it’‘s important to factor them into your decision-making process when deciding where to buy car spares.

Proof of Purchase and Authorization

Some online stores may require proof of purchase or a return authorization number before accepting your return. This could include providing the order number or receipt as well as details about why you want to return the part.

Inspect Upon Arrival

When your purchased item arrives, inspect it carefully for any defects or damage before installing it in your vehicle. If there are any issues with the part upon arrival, contact the online store immediately and document everything with photographs if possible.

While returning a bad part bought from an online store is possible, it might not always be straightforward. Here are some pros and cons of buying car spares from dealerships compared with purchasing them from an online retailer:

Pros of Buying Car Spares From Dealerships

• Expertise and guidance: Dealerships usually have experienced staff who can provide advice on which parts are best suited for your vehicle.

• Quality assurance: Dealerships usually stock genuine OEM parts, which are more reliable than aftermarket alternatives.

• Warranty coverage: Many dealerships offer warranties on the parts they sell, giving you peace of mind in case something goes wrong.

Cons of Buying Car Spares From Dealerships

• Higher prices: Dealerships often charge higher prices than online stores due to overhead costs and other factors.

• Limited selection: Some dealerships only stock parts for certain makes and models, limiting your options if you need a part that’‘s not readily available.

• Inconvenience: Visiting a dealership in person may be inconvenient if you live far away or have a busy schedule.

Pros of Buying Car Spares From Online Stores

• Lower prices: Online stores often offer lower prices than dealerships due to lower overhead costs.

• Wide selection: Online stores usually have a wider selection of car spares, including hard-to-find parts for older vehicles.

• Convenience: You can shop for car spares from the comfort of your home at any time of day or night.

Genuine Auto Parts vs Preowned Market: What to Choose?

If you’‘re in the market for car parts, you may be wondering whether to go for genuine auto parts or preowned ones. Both options have their pros and cons, and it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you.

Genuine Car Parts

Genuine car parts are made by the manufacturer of your vehicle or a licensed third-party supplier. These parts are often more expensive than preowned ones, but they offer better quality and reliability. Here are some pros and cons of using genuine car parts:

Pros

• Quality: Genuine car parts are made to exact specifications and standards set by the manufacturer. This means that they will fit perfectly into your vehicle and work as intended.

• Reliability: Because genuine car parts are made to strict standards, they are less likely to fail prematurely or cause other issues with your vehicle.

• Warranty: Dealerships typically offer warranties on genuine car parts, which means that if something goes wrong with the part within a certain period, you can get it replaced at no cost.

Cons

• Cost: As mentioned earlier, genuine car parts tend to be more expensive than preowned ones.

• Availability: Depending on where you live or what type of vehicle you have, it may be challenging to find genuine car parts locally.

Preowned Car Parts

Preowned car parts come from vehicles that have been scrapped or salvaged. They are often cheaper than new genuine auto parts but may not be as reliable. Here are some pros and cons of using preowned car parts:

Pros

• Cost: Preowned car parts can save you money compared to buying new ones.

• Availability: Since there are many junkyards out there filled with cars waiting to be stripped down and sold off, preowned car parts are usually easy to find.

Cons

• Quality: Preowned car parts have already been used, which means that they may not work as well or be as reliable as new ones.

• No Warranty: Unlike genuine car parts, preowned car parts typically come with no warranty. This means that if something goes wrong with the part shortly after you buy it, you’‘ll have to pay for a replacement out of pocket.

• Risk of Buying Fake Parts: The preowned market is full of fake auto parts that can be difficult to spot. These fake parts are often made from low-quality materials and can cause significant damage to your vehicle.

How to Spot Fake Parts

If you decide to go for preowned car parts, it’‘s essential to know how to spot fake ones. Here are some things to look out for:

• Price: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Cheap prices could indicate that the part is fake or in poor condition.

• Packaging: Genuine auto parts come in branded packaging with logos and serial numbers.

Making the Process Easier for Buying Car Parts

Auto parts stores offer a wider range of options than dealerships.

There are several options available. One of the most common places people go is their local dealership. However, auto parts stores can be a better option if you’‘re looking for a wider range of options.

Auto parts stores like Advance Auto Parts offer a vast selection of automotive parts, including aftermarket and replacement parts. They also have knowledgeable staff who can help you find the right part for your vehicle. Plus, they often have competitive pricing compared to dealerships.

If you’‘re not sure what part you need, many auto parts stores offer online resources to help you identify the right one. For example, Advance Auto Parts has an online catalog that lets you search by make and model or by part number.

Dealerships may have more expertise in brand-specific parts.

While auto parts stores may offer more varietyDealerships often have more expertise in brand-specific parts. If you drive a new car or a high-end vehicle, it’‘s best to visit your dealership’‘s service department for any repairs or replacements needed.

Dealership technicians are specifically trained on the latest models and technologies from specific brands. They know exactly which OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part is required for your vehicle and how to install it correctly. This ensures that your vehicle performs at its best and maintains its resale value.

Online retailers like Advance Auto Parts can make the process more convenient.

Online retailers like Advance Auto Parts offer convenience. You can shop from anywhere at any time without leaving your home or office. Online retailers often have lower overhead costs than brick-and-mortar stores; hence they can pass those savings onto customers through competitive pricing.

Advance Auto Parts offers free shipping on orders over $35 plus same-day pickup in-store. If you’‘re in a hurry, they also offer curbside pickup at select locations.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Buying Car Spares

In conclusion,There are both pros and cons to purchasing from dealerships. OEM parts offer quality assurance but come at a higher cost compared to aftermarket parts. Premium brand parts also come with a premium price tag while own-brand parts may be cheaper but have lower quality standards. Dealerships provide expert advice and convenience but may not always offer the best prices.

If you prefer shopping online, make sure to research the store’‘s return policy before making a purchase. Consider whether you want to invest in genuine auto parts or explore the pre-owned market for more affordable options.

Overall, it’‘s important to weigh your options carefully and choose what works best for your specific needs and budget.

FAQs

1. Can I trust aftermarket car parts?

Aftermarket car parts can be a good option if you’‘re looking for more affordable alternatives to OEM parts. However, it’‘s important to do your research and choose reputable brands that meet industry standards for quality.

2. Are dealership prices negotiable?

While some dealerships may be willing to negotiate on prices, this isn’‘t always guaranteed. It’‘s worth doing some research beforehand on typical pricing for the part you need so you have an idea of what is reasonable.

3. How do I know if a part is genuine or counterfeit?

One way to ensure that a part is genuine is by checking its packaging for holographic seals or other indicators of authenticity. You can also ask the seller for proof of purchase from an authorized distributor.

4. Is it better to buy car parts online or in-store?

Both online stores and physical stores have their advantages and disadvantages. Online stores offer convenience and often have lower prices, but in-store purchases allow you to see the product in person before buying.

5. How do I know if a store has a good return policy?

Before making a purchase, be sure to read the store’‘s return policy carefully. Look for information on how long you have to return an item, whether there are any restocking fees, and what condition the item must be in for a refund.

6. Can I install car parts myself or should I hire a professional?

This depends on your level of experience and comfort with working on cars. While some parts may be easy to install yourself, others may require specialized tools or knowledge that only a professional mechanic can provide.

7. Are pre-owned car parts reliable?

Pre-owned car parts can be a cost-effective option but it’‘s important to make sure they’‘re in good condition before purchasing. Look for sellers who offer warranties or guarantees and ask about the part’‘s history and usage.

8. Do dealerships offer discounts on bulk purchases?

Some dealerships may offer discounts if you purchase multiple items at once or if you’‘re buying parts for multiple vehicles. It never hurts to ask about potential discounts when shopping around.

9. How do I find the right car part for my vehicle?

09/06/2025