Comparing Genuine vs. OEM Auto Parts: Is There a Difference?

 If you've ever taken your care into a used auto parts store looking for a part, the service technician may have asked you if you want OEM, aftermarket, or genuine auto parts. Although the differences are often subtle, there can be a significant difference in the level of quality.

Below, we explain the differences between each and which is best for your car. Ace Auto Parts carries a wide selection of auto parts. If you are looking for a specific auto component, please ask us.

Do Auto Manufacturers Make Their Parts?

There was a time when auto manufacturers built every part of their cars. Those days are long past, however, as most manufacturers now contract other companies to produce parts for them. 

This is not necessarily bad because many companies specialize in developing and creating these parts for specific manufacturers. Therefore, they're designed no differently and with no less quality.

Breaking Down 3 Different Types of Auto Parts

1. Genuine Car Parts

A genuine part is an auto component installed in your vehicle when it was first manufactured. Genuine parts are more expensive than other auto parts because they carry the company logo. 

Keep in mind that genuine parts are not necessarily better than OEM or aftermarket parts. 

Ace Auto Parts can give you recommendations on which parts to buy based on their quality and performance rather than who made them. 

2. OEM Car Parts

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are built by the company that initially made the parts for the auto manufacturer. Our OEM parts are precisely the same as those that came with your car. 

The difference is that they don't carry the manufacturer's logo. OEM parts are just as reliable as genuine parts, but you get them for a better value. 

3. Aftermarket Car Parts

Once a car is built, companies can manufacture parts that will work for that vehicle. To do this, they buy the rights to make the parts. The aftermarket parts we sell do not always look like OEM or genuine parts, but they perform the function needed to operate the car. 

Just as you can trust OEM parts, you can rely on aftermarket car parts to work well.

Pros and Cons for OEM Parts

PROS	CONS
Authentic Car Parts	Higher Price Tag
Warranty Covered	Quality Not Guaranteed
Simple Choices	Limited Accessibility

 

Pros and Cons for Aftermarket Parts

PROS	CONS
Save Money	Varying Quality
Ample Accessibility	Warranty Coverage
More Variety	Immense Options