OEM, Aftermarket, And Used Parts Oh My: How To Know Which Parts Are Right For Your Truck Repairs

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The task of picking up some replacement parts for your truck from a company like Hawaii Spring Supply Inc can seem incredibly simple until you arrive at the auto supply store and learn just how many different options are available to you. Suddenly you find yourself trying to choose between OEM, aftermarket, and used parts. If you don't understand the difference between each of these options, this once seemingly simple task can become far more complicated. Thankfully, the information outlined below can help you to easily identify which of these parts is right for each of your truck repairs.

OEM Parts

OEM or Original Equipment Manufacturer parts are made by the same people who made your vehicle. Consequently, an OEM part will be identical in every way to the parts that are already in your vehicle. This ensures a perfect fit and will help to protect the validity of any manufacturers warranty that you may have on the vehicle.

OEM parts also have the benefit of offering the longest warranty the market has to offer. Unfortunately, these parts will also come with the highest cost the market has to offer.

The availability of OEM parts will decrease as your vehicle gets older. This is because manufacturers typically stop the production of these parts once the vehicle reaches a certain age. Once all of the previously manufactured parts are sold, you will no longer be able to purchase original parts for your vehicle.

Aftermarket Parts

The primary difference between OEM and aftermarket parts is the company that manufacturers them. While OEM parts are manufactured by the company that made your car, aftermarket parts are made by a third party. Since third party manufacturers do not base production on the age of your vehicle, this option will be available to you regardless of how old your vehicle is.

Aftermarket parts offer a lower price than OEM parts while still allowing you to enjoy the benefits that come along with buying brand new auto parts. While the warranty that accompanies these parts may not be as long as the one which accompany original manufacturer parts, it will still be significantly longer than the warranty that is offered on used parts.

Used Parts

As their name indicated, used parts are second hand parts. While many people assume that this means these parts are inferior, there are actually several benefits that come along with choosing to purchase used parts. For instance, while you may no longer be able to purchase OEM parts through the manufacturer once your vehicle reaches a certain age, you may still be able to locate these original parts through a used auto part supplier. This can be especially beneficial when restoring a classic car or truck.

Used parts also offer the benefit of a much lower price. When performing cosmetic repairs, such as replacing a dented hood or door, the lower price associated with these parts can allow you to get the job done for less without sacrificing any of the quality you would expect from a brand new part.

Unfortunately, used parts will often come with either a very short warranty or no warranty at all.

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26 January 2015

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