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OEM vs Aftermarket Car Parts: What Is the Difference?

The parts market has more options than "genuine" and "cheap knockoff" -- understanding the difference helps you spend wisely.

  1. Understand what OEM parts are

    OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are made by the vehicle maker or an approved supplier, built to the exact same spec as what came installed on the car originally.

  2. Understand what aftermarket parts are

    Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers rather than the vehicle brand itself, and quality and reputation vary widely between different aftermarket brands.

  3. Understand why the price differs

    OEM parts typically cost more due to brand licensing and a more controlled distribution chain, while aftermarket parts are often cheaper thanks to competition among many manufacturers.

  4. Learn how to judge aftermarket quality

    Look for aftermarket brands with a track record of supplying OEM manufacturers themselves, and be cautious of unusually cheap, no-name parts, since durability can vary a great deal.

  5. Understand the impact on safety and warranty

    For safety-critical parts like brakes or airbags, sticking with verified OEM or certified parts is the safer choice, while inexpensive consumables like wiper blades or air filters are often fine as aftermarket.

  6. Discuss the options with your mechanic

    Ask your shop to lay out both OEM and aftermarket options with the price and quality difference explained, then choose based on your budget and how critical the part is.

'Aftermarket' does not automatically mean lower quality

Many aftermarket manufacturers make parts to a standard equal to or exceeding OEM, and some even supply OEM parts under contract. The real variable is the specific brand and its reputation, not the aftermarket label itself.

Where it is worth paying more

For components tied directly to safety -- brakes, steering, airbags -- the cost difference between OEM and a questionable aftermarket part is usually small relative to the risk, so this is one area where spending a bit more is generally the sound choice. This is general guidance; check with a qualified mechanic for advice specific to your vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are aftermarket parts always lower quality than OEM?

No -- quality depends heavily on the specific manufacturer. Some aftermarket brands meet or exceed OEM standards, while others are genuinely poor, so checking the brand's reputation matters more than the OEM-vs-aftermarket label alone.

Does using aftermarket parts void my car's warranty?

In most places, a manufacturer can't void your entire warranty just because you used an aftermarket part, but they can decline to cover damage that the aftermarket part itself caused, so keep records of what was installed and when.