What’s Wrong with Aftermarket Parts?

August 2, 2019

Car parts and repairs can put a huge dent in your wallet, so many people choose to use aftermarket parts to replace OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts that have gone bad on their vehicles. Aftermarket parts are those made by a company other than your vehicle’s manufacturer. These parts tend to be much more affordable than their OEM counterparts, but offer a few major downsides that make them not worth the bit of change you’ll save when using them.

Warranty Issues

Though aftermarket parts now come with warranties, the larger issue is that of quality. Even if you’re able to have the part replaced for free, you’ll still be without a vehicle for a while. When you get your car fixed, you need to know that it’s going to run. Aftermarket parts are designed to meet a price point, but OEM parts are built for quality, and that means staying on the road and not getting stuck in a shop. 

Additionally, replacing OEM parts with aftermarket parts can sometimes void your vehicle’s original warranty. It’s pretty apparent than visiting your local automotive shop and opting for OEM parts can end up saving you money in the long run. 

Quality of Parts

When we find a less costly version of something we need or desire, we have a tendency to jump on the deal just for the savings alone. However, it’s smart to stop and consider the reason for the difference in price. The adage of “You get what you pay for” is true here, as off-brand car parts are often made with lower quality materials than OEM parts and are known to malfunction more frequently.

Overwhelming Selection

There may be too much of a good thing when it comes to aftermarket car parts. We like having options and comparing prices, colors, shapes, and sizes of many of the items we purchase. However, if you’re not a professional mechanic or skilled in automotive repair, the wide selection can be incredibly overwhelming.  You could be browsing the internet for aftermarket spark plugs and find yourself weeding through hundreds of different variations of plugs made by dozens of different companies. 

Reliable Auto Repair in Davidsonville, MD

Oftentimes, it’s worth the extra money to rest assured you’re getting an OEM part that is properly installed by an expert in auto maintenance and repair, and the professionals at Choisser Import Auto Services are happy to deliver. We pride ourselves on providing OEM part replacement and repairs that are affordable for all of our customers throughout Maryland without compromising quality. If you’re having trouble with your vehicle that has aftermarket parts, or need auto repair or maintenance of any kind, contact us today to schedule an appointment!