As a truck owner, you know that different vehicle parts require specific maintenance and care. While all your truck parts are essential, some are more important than others – and the same goes for aftermarket and original truck parts. So, what’s the difference between them? Let’s take a closer look. If you are looking for Affordable Heavy Truck Parts – aftermarket commercial truck parts – that will get the job done without breaking the bank, this article is for you.
First, let’s start by defining each term.
Aftermarket truck parts are made by a company other than the original manufacturer of your truck. On the other hand, original truck parts are made specifically for your truck by the same company that manufactured the vehicle.
An original truck part may also be manufactured by an external company contracted by the truck’s manufacturer. In this case, the truck’s manufacturer remains the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
There are key differences between aftermarket truck parts and original truck parts. Let’s look at them in detail.
Aftermarket Parts
Several companies manufacture aftermarket truck parts that fit a range of truck makes and models. In some instances, these parts may have superior quality to the original parts. Let’s examine the benefits and drawbacks of aftermarket truck parts.
PROS:
Aftermarket parts are often less expensive than original parts – Since the third-party manufacturers do not incur research and development (R&D) costs, they can sell their products at a lower price.
Quality may be as good or exceed the OEM – By reverse-engineering the original part, aftermarket manufacturers can sometimes improve on the design. In other cases, they may use higher-quality materials. All these efforts can result in aftermarket parts that are as good or better than the original.
More options to choose from – You’ll have a broader range of products since more companies are making aftermarket parts. This increased competition may lead to improved quality.
Increased availability – With more companies making aftermarket parts, there’s a higher chance that the part you need will be in stock and readily available.
Cons:
Quality may not meet OEM standards – In some cases, the quality of aftermarket parts can be inferior to original parts. This is often the result of companies using lower-quality materials to cut costs. Or the third-party companies may not use the advanced engineering practices of the OEMs. As a result, their products may not meet the same stringent quality and safety standards.
Fitment issues – Aftermarket parts are made to fit a range of truck makes and models. So, there’s a greater chance that the part you receive may not be an exact match for your truck. This may cause installation challenges.
No Warranty – Some aftermarket companies may not offer a warranty on their products to cut costs. So, if the part fails soon after installation, you may have to pay for a replacement out of your pocket.
Choosing from a large variety is overwhelming – If you are new to the world of aftermarket truck parts, you may find it challenging to select a quality product from the wide range of options available.
Original Parts
As mentioned earlier, OEM (original equipment manufacturers) parts are made by the same company that manufactured your truck. Let’s also consider the pros and cons of these parts.
Pros:
Superior quality – OEMs manufacture their parts with advanced engineering practices and high-quality materials. As a result, these parts meet stringent quality and safety standards.
Exact fit – OEMs design their parts specifically for their trucks. So, there’s no risk of the part not fitting correctly.
Warranty – Most OEMs offer a warranty on their parts. So, if the part fails soon after installation, you can get a replacement.
Choosing your part is easier – It’s easier for a client to quote their vehicle model and ask for an original part that will fit.
Cons:
More expensive – OEMs incur research and development (R&D) costs to design their parts. They also have to spend more on marketing and advertising. All these factors result in a higher price for their parts.
Must be purchased at a dealership – To get an OEM part, you’ll have to visit a dealership that stocks parts for your specific truck make and model. This adds extra time and cost to the process.
Aftermarket truck parts are often less expensive than original parts, and the quality may be as good or exceed the OEM parts. In addition, there is a broader range of products to select from, and the parts are more readily available. However, the quality of some aftermarket parts can be inferior, and there may be fitment issues. Therefore, when choosing aftermarket truck parts, selecting a reputable company with a good warranty is essential.v