OEM vs Aftermarket Parts: What Are The Differences?

When it comes to car repairs, getting as close to “stock” as possible is your ultimate goal. As such, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to go for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts.

So, which one’s best? Many will say it’s a matter of opinion, but there’s a clear winner in the “authentic vs. third-party parts” debate. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of using OEM parts, and why they’re often the preferred choice for car owners and mechanics alike.

Why Choose Authentic Over Third-Party

First of all, what does “OEM car parts” mean? Genuine, authentic or OEM auto parts are designed and made by the same automotive manufacturer that built your vehicle, while aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers. Generally speaking, each option has its own set of pros and cons, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in terms of performance, safety, and both immediate and long-term costs.

The Pros of OEM Parts

There are several key benefits to choosing authentic car parts for your vehicle:

Higher Quality

OEM components are manufactured to the same standards as the original parts that came with your vehicle, ensuring that they are of the highest quality. They are made with high-quality materials and are rigorously tested to ensure that they meet the exact specifications of your car. This essentially equates to a higher level of quality and reliability than aftermarket parts, which may not meet the same strict standards.

Perfect Fit

OEM parts are designed to fit perfectly with your specific make and model of vehicle. This means that they are easy to install and will work seamlessly with the other parts of your car—a perk that all mechanics love—saving everyone involved time, effort and money. In contrast, aftermarket parts may not fit as well, which can lead to problems with performance and safety.

Performance

Not only do authentic auto parts fit your car, but they’re also designed to perform at the highest level possible with your vehicle’s existing systems and components. They offer optimal performance and efficiency, ensuring your car can run smoother and last longer.

Warranties

Most OEM parts come with warranties that guarantee their quality and performance. If that replacement car part fails or doesn’t work as expected, you can get it replaced or repaired at no cost. When you use genuine vehicle parts for your car repairs, you may be eligible for the same warranty coverage that came with your original car, too, which is an added peace of mind in case something goes wrong.

Longevity

Because they are made with higher-quality materials and designed to fit perfectly with your vehicle, OEM parts are often more durable and longer-lasting than aftermarket parts. This can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Support

If you have any questions about the installation or use of an OEM component, the manufacturer may be able to provide technical support to assist you. This can be especially useful for more complicated parts and installations.

Brand Reputation

The last thing an automotive brand wants is to sell inadequate or bad car components. They have a reputation to uphold, so it’s in their best interest to produce parts that help maintain the original integrity of their vehicles.

The Cons of Aftermarket Parts

While aftermarket parts may be cheaper than OEM parts, there are several downsides to choosing them for your vehicle:

Lower Quality

Because aftermarket parts are not made by the original manufacturer, there is no guarantee that they will be of the same quality as OEM parts. They may be made with lower-quality materials or may not be designed to the same exact specifications as your vehicle. This can lead to performance issues, safety concerns, and a shorter lifespan.

Lack of Testing

Aftermarket parts are not subject to the same rigorous testing as OEM parts, which means they may not be as reliable or safe. This can result in unexpected failures, reduced performance, or even accidents.

Inconsistent Fit

Aftermarket parts may not fit as well as OEM parts, which can cause problems with performance and safety, let alone extra labor, expenses and frustration. In some cases, they may require modifications to fit properly, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

Lack of Warranties

Many aftermarket parts do not come with warranties, which means that if they fail or don’t work as expected, you may be on the hook for the cost of repairs or replacements.

Lower Vehicle Resale Value

Although uncommon, third-party auto parts can reduce your vehicle’s resale value. This is more common with classic, exotic and foreign cars, though it can be an issue with any vehicle. Buyers may be wary of non-OEM parts and may be less likely to pay top dollar for a car that has been repaired with aftermarket components.

Limited Availability

Since there are many different brands and manufacturers of aftermarket parts, it can be difficult to find the exact part you need. This could result in longer wait times for repairs or the need to settle for a less reliable or lower-quality alternative. Typically, you’ll have a harder time finding aftermarket or third-party automotive components for rarer or less common vehicles, including some new BMW vehicles and most BMW M models.

As you can see, there are many reasons why authentic or genuine automotive parts are often the better choice for car repairs. They offer superior quality, performance, safety, fit and finish. Of course, there are situations where aftermarket parts may be a viable option—if you’re working on an older or less expensive vehicle, for example—but the decision ultimately boils down to one thing: Peace of mind. And that is why OEM is always the smarter choice, even if they cost a little more.

To order authentic BMW parts and accessories or have them installed in Miami, contact Braman BMW at (786) 235-9765  We’ll help you identify the right component for your specific BMW model and schedule an appointment for service.