Why Buy OEM Parts Instead of Aftermarket Parts
Whether you take your car in for service or handle most repairs yourself, you have a choice to make when it comes to what kind of parts are installed on your vehicle. Kia Of East Hartford utilizes OEM parts, or Original Equipment Manufacturer parts, while many local mechanics and auto service shops will use what are called "aftermarket" parts. Let's take a look at the differences between these two types of auto parts to better understand why Kia Of East Hartford stocks and installs OEM parts at our and service center.
OEM Parts vs. Aftermarket Parts: A Comparison
Fit & Performance
OEM parts like the genuine Kia parts stocked at Kia Of East Hartford are manufactured to factory-standard of the original auto manufacturer. In other words, these replacement auto parts offer the exact fit and function of the parts that were installed at your vehicle at the factory. The OEM parts available for Kia vehicles must meet the high standards of factory-replacement components; that is why Kia Of East Hartford always recommends OEM parts when servicing or repairing your Kia.
Aftermarket parts are typically defined as being parts purchased from any manufacturer that is not the vehicle's original automaker. Many different brands of cars use many of the same parts, which allows some parts to function universally. A lot of aftermarket parts are produced by third-party companies who manufacture generic, one-size-fits-all components to suit a wide range of different cars. While aftermarket parts are often cheaper and are more widely available for purchase, they may not provide the ideal fit and function of OEM parts.
Quality & Price
Since any manufacturer can produce aftermarket parts , it is important to remember that quality can vary greatly when you buy aftermarket parts or accessories for your car. The saying "you get what you pay for" can certainly apply to new replacement auto parts! Since these aftermarket parts were made to fit a wide variety of makes and models, it may not provide a seamless replacement for your factory OEM part.
OEM parts may be slightly more costly in some situations, but when comparing many quality aftermarket parts with the OEM part equivalent, the price is roughly the same; plus, OEM parts come with a factory-backed warranty. When selecting parts from the original manufacturer, you know you are getting the exact part that your car originally came with, assuring the best possible fit for your vehicle!