Four Differences Between OEM Parts and Aftermarket Parts - Subaru Service Questions in Beaverton, OR

Four Differences Between OEM Parts & Aftermarket Parts

When you're looking for parts for your Subaru, you're likely to hear terms like "OEM" and "aftermarket." What do these mean? "OEM" is short for "Original Equipment Manufacturer." This means that OEM Subaru parts are either made by Subaru directly, or by a Subaru-approved source. Aftermarket parts, by contrast, are not. Below are four important differences between these two kinds of parts.

Are aftermarket parts worth the money for my Subaru

4. Quality

Aftermarket parts aren't necessarily low in quality. In fact, many aftermarket parts have similar quality to OEM parts. However, the difference is that OEM parts have quality you can trust. Since they're approved by the factory, you never have to wonder whether you're getting an actual quality part or a piece of junk.

3. Ease of Choice

Directly related to quality is how easy it is to choose OEM parts. If you're looking for, say, aftermarket brake pads, you really don't want to take a chance with your safety. So, in order to make sure you're getting quality parts, you'll have to do research on the aftermarket manufacturers, look through reviews, etc. However, if you choose OEM parts, all you have to do is go to the dealership and rest assured that you're getting brake pads that are guaranteed by the factory.

Contact our parts department to ask questions about OEM and aftermarket parts

2. Warranty

That guarantee isn't empty, either. Genuine OEM Subaru parts come with warranties, so you know that they're products the company stands behind. Chances are you'll never need to take advantage of the warranty; however, if some defect should happen, it's much better to be covered than not.

1. Price

With all these great reasons to choose OEM parts, why are aftermarket parts still common? The answer often comes down to price: OEM parts overall do tend to be more expensive than aftermarket ones. However, there's something important to keep in mind. Cheaper aftermarket parts don't always last as long as OEM parts. So if you're paying $50 for a part instead of $80, but you have to replace it twice as often, you really end up paying more. OEM parts may (often, but not always) be more expensive when you first buy them, but they have value that lasts and can save you money in the long run.