When it comes to auto repairs, you want to be certain the parts you buy will fit perfectly in your vehicle. OEM (original equipment manufacturer) auto parts provide just that – peace of mind.
The automotive industry has grown from small corner hardware stores offering screws and bolts to the production of all kinds of parts, systems, and components for cars and trucks.
Parts Made by Manufacturers
The automotive parts industry produces a broad selection of items required for vehicle assembly. These include engines, transmissions, body and chassis systems, seats, mirrors, closures, electronics and more – all essential elements in making up a car.
These parts are manufactured through a variety of processes such as drawing, forging and extrusion. They’re constructed out of materials like steel, rubber, plastics and aluminum for strength.
The automotive industry is dedicated to producing vehicles that are eco-friendly, economical and secure. These goals guide both vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers’ research and development activities.
Vehicle manufacturers frequently contract with Tier-one suppliers for the production of just-in-time (JIT) auto parts, components and systems used during final assembly at vehicle plants. These firms are as global in scope as the vehicle manufacturers themselves.
Parts Made by Suppliers
Auto manufacturers produce vehicles in-house, but they also outsource many of the components used during production. Suppliers supply everything from window gaskets to wheel bearings and other bits and pieces which then enter into final assembly processes.
Global automotive suppliers manufacture parts for some of the top automakers worldwide. Each year, these companies invest billions of dollars into research and development to stay abreast of growing demands for vehicle parts around the world.
A superior automotive parts supplier should design their products consistently and use quality raw materials in production, which helps guarantee long-lasting outcomes. Furthermore, they should be reliable and offer exceptional customer service – this helps establish a good reputation within the industry.
Parts Made by Aftermarket
Aftermarket companies manufacture parts to fit a variety of vehicles. Furthermore, they can produce larger volumes, cutting production costs which are then passed along to the consumer.
Some aftermarket parts can be of higher quality than OEM. In the case of brake pads, for instance, an aftermarket manufacturer may be able to reverse-engineer the part and improve it so it performs better while costing less than an OEM set would.
More Options and Competitive Pricing – There are hundreds of aftermarket companies, some specializing in certain components while others manufacture virtually every part needed for a vehicle. With so many choices available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming if you are unfamiliar with brands and their quality levels. With so many options available, selecting one that meets all your requirements may feel overwhelming if you are unfamiliar with each option available.
However, quality aftermarket parts can often perform at least as well as OEM parts and often come with a warranty. Drivers can determine which option best meets their needs by consulting with an experienced mechanic or taking the time to research potential parts thoroughly.
Parts with a Warranty
It is becoming more and more common for used auto parts stores to offer warranties on their inventory. These coverage options may differ depending on the seller, but are usually valid for 30-90 days.
In general, warranties for used car parts usually extend coverage to mechanical components like engines, transmissions and front or rear axle assemblies. These parts endure the most wear-and-tear on a vehicle, so they’re more prone to issues when not properly maintained.
Parts with warranties tend to be more durable than those without, making them a great investment for those who take pride in their cars. But before purchasing any parts with warranties, be aware of what those mean and that some can be voided if the seller uses another company’s part or performs aftermarket modifications on the product.