Aftermarket, OEM, OE Auto Parts Explained

Womens Simply Vera Vera Wang Midi Dresses, Clothing | Kohl's
Enjoy free shipping and easy returns every day at Kohl's. Find great deals on Womens Simply Vera Vera Wang Midi Dresses at Kohl's today!

Men's Nike Dri-FIT Rival Basketball Shorts
These Nike men's basketball shorts are straight-up equipment for the courts.

Aftermarket, OEM, replacement parts–you see these words in almost all auto parts stores online. What do these terms mean?

For a passive buyer, these things are but ordinary terms used in the automotive market but for someone meticulous and who wants the best for his auto, these things matter considerably. Deciding which among these to purchase is just like deciding what car to buy.

O.E.M. stands for Original Equipment Manufactured. This means that OEM Ford parts are manufactured by Ford itself, Chevrolet parts are manufactured by Chevrolet, Toyota parts by Toyota, BMW parts by BMW and so on. The terms O.E.S. and OE are also used; these mean Original Equipment Supplied and Original Equipment, respectively. While in many cases, OEM and OES mean the same, OE is more general referring to any part that came as original equipment on the car. Some of OE car parts and components are not actually made by the car manufacturer but are purchased and assembled by the automakers to create a vehicle.

Those referred to as “aftermarket auto parts” are not made by the original car manufacturer; furthermore, they are bought and added to the vehicle only at the dealership or after the vehicle left the dealership. In terms of design and function, aftermarket products are almost the same as the stock auto parts since they are primarily used to replace a damaged original part so that the vehicle can continue to run. If you need replacement parts for your car, however, you can either buy O.E.M. or aftermarket auto parts. There are numerous sources of aftermarket auto parts. Stores like Auto Parts Discount give you a great variety of parts for almost all makes and models.

Some cars, especially the base models are not completely equipped so users just add aftermarket parts later on. For example if you have purchased an old Toyota Corolla, you can add aftermarket Toyota fog lights, Toyota spoiler, Toyota turn signal light or Toyota mirrors. Aftermarket products can also help you give your car a fresh new look. Even if your original parts are not yet damaged or worn out, you can replace them with or add specially designed aftermarket auto parts like Honda taillights, Ford center cap, Chevrolet chrome bumper, and Mercedes Benz Front Cover Towing Eye found at Auto Parts Discount.

Enthusiasts, on the other hand would opt for custom parts and specialty equipments. Compared to a universal fit auto part, which can be installed to any vehicle make, year and model, custom aftermarket products are designed to fit only a particular application. Examples of custom parts are your Ford hood, Ford fender and Ford doors. Specialty equipments on the other hand, are intended to make the vehicle more stylish, comfortable, convenient and more up-to-date.

Most auto users prefer aftermarket products because they are less expensive than OEM replacements. While it is true that there may be some aftermarket auto parts that do not meet high standards of original equipments, it is not right to say that aftermarket products are generally inferior in terms of quality and style. Replacement parts sold at Auto Parts Discount, for example are made by car parts manufacturers that are mandated by high international standards.

Which is better, OEM or aftermarket replacement part? It depends on the product. Some OEM parts are not durable enough while the aftermarket parts you use to replace them could last for many years. If you want to give your car a different look and also, if you want to save, aftermarket products are worth a try. However, make sure to get these replacement parts from trusted sources.

Nike Air Max Infinity 2 Women's Sneakers
With its futuristic look, accentuated heel and mixed material upper, this women's Nike Air Max Infinity 2 shoe brings you a textured, fashion-forward look you can wear day-in and day-out. The wavy design lines add an organic element to balance the modern aesthetic while the Max Air cushioning add...

Men's Orange San Francisco Giants Swagga Hoodie Bodysuit
Support your San Francisco Giants from head to toe with this Swagga Hoodie Bodysuit. Featuring authentic team colors and graphics, this long-sleeve bodysuit will keep you warm and comfortable on game day.

Women's Fleet Street Single Breasted Faux-Fur Plaid Coat
Head outside in style with this women's plaid coat from Fleet Street.

Sean John Tufted Stonewash Duvet Cover Set
Redefine the look of your existing bed with this Sean John duvet cover set.

Columbia Vent Women's Athletic Shoes
These Columbia Vent shoes deliver superior breathability, all-surface traction, and a sock-like fit for comfort in all conditions.

Sonoma Goods For Life® New Traditions Solid Gauze Quilt or Sham
Adorn your bed with this stylish Sonoma Goods For Life quilt.

Toddler Girl Nike Club Fleece Tie-Dye Print Pants
Made with lightweight sueded fleece, these girls' Nike pants are designed for their active lifestyle.

Baby & Toddler goumi Organic Cotton Knit Hoodie
Mama-owned and operated, goumi makes cozy, organic, sustainable and functional essentials for your baby, toddler, big kid and even you.