Are non genuine car parts OK?
When it comes to maintaining or repairing your vehicle, one of the most common dilemmas car owners face is whether to use genuine car parts or opt for non-genuine alternatives. At Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’ve seen the pros and cons of both options. Let’s dive into whether non-genuine car parts are a good choice for your vehicle.
What Are Non-Genuine Car Parts?
Non-genuine car parts, also known as aftermarket parts, are components made by manufacturers other than the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). These parts are designed to fit and function like the original parts but are often sold at a lower price. While they can be a cost-effective solution, there are several factors to consider before choosing them.
Pros of Using Non-Genuine Car Parts
Non-genuine car parts can be a viable option in certain situations. Here are some of the advantages:
- Cost Savings: Aftermarket parts are typically less expensive than OEM parts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious car owners.
- Wide Availability: Non-genuine parts are widely available and often come in a variety of options, giving you more flexibility in terms of price and quality.
- Comparable Quality: Many aftermarket parts are manufactured to meet or exceed OEM standards, especially when sourced from reputable brands.
Cons of Using Non-Genuine Car Parts
While non-genuine parts have their benefits, they also come with potential drawbacks:
- Quality Variability: The quality of aftermarket parts can vary significantly. Some may not meet the same standards as OEM parts, leading to potential performance issues.
- Warranty Concerns: Using non-genuine parts may void your vehicle’s warranty, depending on the terms set by the manufacturer.
- Fit and Compatibility: Non-genuine parts may not always fit perfectly, which can lead to installation challenges or long-term issues.
When Are Non-Genuine Parts OK?
Non-genuine parts can be a good choice in the following scenarios:
- Out-of-Warranty Vehicles: If your car is no longer under warranty, using aftermarket parts can save you money without risking warranty coverage.
- Non-Critical Repairs: For minor repairs or components that don’t affect the safety or performance of your vehicle, non-genuine parts can be a practical option.
- Reputable Brands: When purchasing aftermarket parts, stick to well-known brands with a proven track record of quality and reliability.
When Should You Stick to Genuine Parts?
In some cases, it’s better to invest in genuine OEM parts:
- Safety-Critical Components: For parts like brakes, airbags, or suspension systems, it’s crucial to use OEM parts to ensure safety and reliability.
- High-Performance Vehicles: If you own a high-performance or luxury vehicle, OEM parts are often designed to meet the specific needs of your car.
- Warranty Protection: To maintain your vehicle’s warranty, always use genuine parts for repairs and maintenance.
Final Thoughts
At Kevin's Autos, we understand that every car owner’s situation is unique. Non-genuine car parts can be a cost-effective and practical solution in many cases, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you’re unsure which option is best for your vehicle, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert advice. Your car’s safety and performance are our top priorities!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between genuine and non genuine car parts?
Non-genuine parts have not been made, selected or approved by the maker of your vehicle. They can't necessarily promise the quality and safety attributes that come with a tested and proven genuine part. They have never been tested as an integral component by the vehicle's manufacturer.
Do dealerships have to use OEM parts?
Dealers Don't Have to Use OEM Parts to Make Repairs
OEM parts are often more expensive than aftermarket parts. This extra cost can be a factor when a dealership is calculating the price of a repair — especially if it's being paid for by an insurance company, which will often push for the use of the cheapest components.
Are aftermarket car parts as good as OEM?
Quality. OEM parts offer greater assurance of quality than aftermarket parts because they are the same as the parts on new cars and offer the same level of performance. Aftermarket parts, however, vary greatly in terms of quality, so there is a higher level of uncertainty concerning the quality of aftermarket parts.
Are aftermarket parts as good as original?
Aftermarket parts are less expensive, more readily available, and offer a wider range of options. However, the quality of aftermarket parts can be inconsistent. On the other hand, OEM parts offer greater quality assurance and come with warranties, but they come at a higher cost.
What do you call parts that are not OEM?
An aftermarket part is anything not made by an original equipment manufacturer. Think of these as the “generic version” of an OEM part. Many aftermarket parts can meet or exceed OEM quality, without the markup of having a brand name attached.
Which is better, OEM or authentic?
Because they are made in the same way as genuine parts, OEM parts tend to be more reliable than aftermarket parts and last for longer. Warranty. OEM parts should come with a warranty to protect you if the part is defective or doesn't work properly. The specific warranty will differ by manufacturer.
Which is better, the OEM or the genuine parts?
OEM parts are the same as genuine parts, only they do not bear the manufacturer's logo, and the packaging is different. Also, OEM parts are generally more cost-friendly compared to genuine parts.
Do mechanics use genuine parts?
Many dealerships require genuine parts for all repairs to uphold the manufacturer's warranty. However, here's a little-known fact: you can choose your own mechanic without voiding your warranty, as long as they're a registered automotive repairer who uses genuine parts.
Is it better to buy genuine car parts?
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.
Is it okay to use non-genuine car parts?
Forgetting everything else, not using genuine parts could invalidate your warranty, so it's important to recognise whether this applies to you before letting someone work on your car or ordering parts for it yourself.
