OEM and OE car parts, what’s the difference?

An OE part is manufactured for multiple car manufacturers and fits various vehicles. OEM parts, on the other hand, are manufactured exclusively for a specific car manufacturer.

OEM vs. OE Car Parts

Buying OEM Car Parts

While buying original (OEM) parts has many advantages, there are also some disadvantages. Because they are original parts, as installed during the car’s manufacturing process, repairs are generally easier. The main disadvantage of original parts is that they are more expensive than aftermarket or generic (OE) parts. If your car is still under warranty, you are often required to use only genuine parts for repairs to maintain the warranty. Furthermore, some insurance companies may only cover repairs if genuine parts are used. However, since January 1, 2017, vehicle maintenance and repair professionals are required to offer you the option of using used or recycled auto parts.

• Advantages of buying OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts
• If you’re looking for precision and quality, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are the way to go. They match the specifications of the original parts fitted to your vehicle, so you know they’ll do the job right. Furthermore, OEM parts are manufactured to consistent quality standards, so you can be confident they’ll last.
• OEM parts have identical and permanent part numbers. The OE number is a type of OEM number that refers to the original equipment manufacturer. You can use the part number to find the right components for your car.

OEM manufacturers often offer a warranty on their products. If the replacement part you purchased breaks within a certain timeframe after purchase, you may be entitled to warranty coverage, such as a free exchange or repair.

• Disadvantage of Buying OEM (Original Equipment) Parts
• Availability: There is no guarantee that parts will be readily available from the manufacturer. When a problem arises in the supply chain, OEM components are not always immediately available. Not all dealerships maintain a large inventory of high-quality components, so these must be ordered first. For an older vehicle, they might not be available at all.
• Price: Genuine new parts are often quite expensive, as the price includes not only the part itself but also the manufacturer’s warranty and service fees.