Car Parts Blog

Three Major Advantages to Using New OEM Parts

2011-01-22T06:58:00.000-08:00

What are some of the advantages of new OEM parts? There are some distinct advantages to using new parts from the original equipment manufacturer. Three of them are getting parts that meet the manufacturer’s warranty requirement, getting a proper fit without modifications, and the fact that new lasts longer than used. These three advantages are why new parts are so popular among many car owners. There are situations where new parts from the original equipment manufacturer make sense, like doing collision repair work.

One of the biggest advantages of new OEM parts is they have approval of the car’s manufacturer. This helps keep the warranty valid. Many people want to save money when it comes to making auto repairs. However, putting certain aftermarket parts on your car can lead to invalidating your warranty and causing problems with your insurance company. Because the manufacturer of the car must approve all parts sold as OEM, they are giving their tacit approval that the part meets their own warranty standards. If you do not want to invalidate your warranty, using OEM parts just makes sense.

Another of the major advantages of new OEM parts is they fit properly without any modifications necessary. Many manufacturers make aftermarket parts to be universal fit. That means they need minor modifications to fit on certain vehicle bodies. It might mean adding extra wiring, a new pipe, or changing out an adapter. You must strike a balance between getting a part that fits your car and the price you pay for that privilege. Modifying parts and customizing the fit can cancel out the savings you get with an aftermarket part.

A final of the major advantages of new OEM parts is the fact they will last longer than used ones. Many turn to used car parts to save money. That is a good cost savings measure. But, it also gives you a much higher likelihood that you will have to replace that part again in the near future. For a car that you do not plan on keeping long, that might work. But, if you want to keep the same car more than a few months, putting your money into a new part makes sense. It will save you money in the future since you will not need to repeat that repair soon. These advantages show why purchasing parts with the OEM label has its perks. But there are disadvantages as well.

Disadvantages of Used OEM Parts - Some Disadvantages to Used vs. New

2011-01-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

You need to know the disadvantages of used OEM parts when looking to repair your car. There are three disadvantages of note. One is the fact that some parts may not be available when you need them. Another is the fact that a used part could have damage that you cannot see. A final one is how long a used part will last compared to a new one. These three disadvantages are part of balancing your decision to purchase used parts over new parts or aftermarket ones.

One of the significant disadvantages of used OEM parts is availability. Unlike new parts, there is no manufacturer waiting to make additional used parts. That means you are subject to what is available at the time you need to make repairs. If you are lucky, you can find the part easily. With the internet, that is possible today. But, for older cars, the amount of inventory will continue to decline despite modern technology. If you have the time to wait on a used part, then it is an advantage. But for those who need that car to run as soon as possible, used parts are not always available.
Another of the major disadvantages of used OEM parts is potential hidden damage. Even with thorough refurbishment and testing, the used part has wear and tear that is not present on a new part. You cannot tell what effects the wear and tear has had on the part. While it might last as long as the rest of your car does, it might also need replaced in a year because of unseen damage in the part itself. That unknown level of quality is what many people shy away from when it comes to purchasing used parts.

A final thought on the disadvantages of used OEM parts is longevity. This relates closely to the potential hidden damage. A used part is used. Part of its lifespan is gone through regular use. While many parts have a long life, it is something to consider when purchasing a used part. If you plan on keeping your vehicle for a number of years, this can be a distinct disadvantage. If you plan to sell it in a few months, then it may not be so much of a disadvantage. These disadvantages are something you need to weigh when contemplating new over used parts. There are advantages to think about as well.

New OEM Car Parts - A Standard that Many Car Owners Flock Towards

2011-01-03T07:26:00.000-08:00

When you have an older car that starts to need work, you can select new auto OEM parts, rebuilt ones, or aftermarket products. All come with advantages and disadvantages. If these terms are a bit confusing, here is some clarification. OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. These parts come from the car’s original manufacturer. Ford OEM auto parts come from Ford. Toyota OEM parts come from Toyota. The list goes on. Rebuilt parts are used parts which a mechanic or technician has refurbished and tested. Aftermarket parts are auto parts made by any company other than the original equipment manufacturer. Here are some thoughts on OEM parts.

What are some of the advantages of using new auto OEM parts? With OEM parts, you know the part is compatible with your particular car if you order them through a dealership. The manufacturer designed the car and knows which parts will fit. You also know the new OEM part is much the same as the original and should perform much the same. This option appeals to most average car owners who do not want a customized car or want to enhance the vehicle’s performance levels. These parts meet all legal and warranty requirements.

What are some of the disadvantages of new auto OEM parts? OEM parts are what the manufacturer designed for the car. For car enthusiasts who want more performance out of their car or want to customize their ride, OEM parts often do not fit the bill. They do not meet the expectations or desires for customization. You also pay a premium for OEM parts most of the time. Dealerships love to get a premium on auto parts. Even purchasing OEM parts through an auto store carries a premium. You can purchase rebuilt and aftermarket parts at a lower price.

New auto OEM parts are a leading choice for most consumers. They offer reliability and a replacement you know. Going with a rebuilt part might cost less, but there is no guarantee of longevity. With aftermarket parts, you may have issues with legality and warranty work. You know what you are getting with OEM parts. Most car owners look to OEM parts whenever they have a problem with their vehicle. But, this may not be the best option for the car enthusiast who wants to get more performance and customization in their ride. For them, aftermarket car parts are the way to go.