CAN YOU TELL THE DIFFERENCE? YOUR CAR CAN.
OEM vs AFTERMARKET
ALL PARTS ARE NOT CREATED EQUAL.
OEM parts are made by the vehicle's manufacturer. These match the parts that came with your vehicle when it rolled off the assembly line. With OEM parts, you can be assured of manufacturers quality levels, warranties, and perfect fit and function. Often times, automotive repair shops will use inferior aftermarket parts that may differ greatly in quality and performance. While OEM is preferred is many instances, they should not be considered as the universal best option.
WHEN AFTERMARKET IS PREFERRED.
An aftermarket part is any part for a vehicle that is not sourced from the car's maker. If the parts are direct replacement parts, they will not void your car's warranty. Quality aftermarket parts are designed to function the same, or in some cases even better. Typically aftermarket parts are preferred when applying performance upgrades, making modifications, or in special circumstances as they can be built to higher standards and load levels. Your mechanic will advise you when aftermarket parts are preferred.