What is the difference between Ford OEM and aftermarket?
When it comes to maintaining or repairing your Ford vehicle, you have two main options for replacement parts: original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts. Understanding the key differences between these two can help you make an informed decision about which parts to use.
What are Ford OEM Parts?
Ford OEM parts are manufactured by Ford or an authorized supplier to the exact specifications of the original components used in your Ford vehicle. These parts are designed to fit perfectly and function seamlessly with your Ford's systems. They are often more expensive than aftermarket parts, but they come with the assurance of quality and compatibility.
What are Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party manufacturers, not Ford. These parts are designed to be compatible with your Ford vehicle, but they may not fit or perform exactly the same as the original components. Aftermarket parts are generally less expensive than OEM parts, but the quality can vary widely depending on the manufacturer.
Key Differences
- Fit and Compatibility: OEM parts are guaranteed to fit and function perfectly, while aftermarket parts may have slight variations that affect fit and performance.
- Quality: OEM parts are held to Ford's strict quality standards, while the quality of aftermarket parts can vary.
- Cost: Aftermarket parts are typically less expensive than OEM parts.
- Warranty: OEM parts come with a warranty from Ford, while aftermarket parts may have limited or no warranty coverage.
When deciding between OEM and aftermarket parts, consider the importance of the part, your budget, and the level of risk you're willing to take. For critical components or safety-related parts, OEM parts are generally the safer choice. For less critical parts or when cost is a primary concern, aftermarket parts may be a viable option.
Is Motorcraft the same as Ford OEM?
Motorcraft makes both Ford OEM parts and aftermarket parts. OEM parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer parts) are the same parts found in a new Ford vehicle. Aftermarket parts are not made by Ford but are designed to be compatible with Ford vehicles.
Are Ford parts better than aftermarket?
The automaker, in this case Ford, specifies what materials can be used, how the parts are fabricated, even the exact dimensions and functionality required. As a result, OEM parts fit perfectly, work strictly as intended, and last longer than other aftermarket parts.
Do OEM parts last longer than aftermarket?
Extended lifespan: OEM parts often last longer than aftermarket parts, thanks to their quality. Warranty coverage: OEM parts typically come with a warranty, providing you with even more peace of mind. Convenience: Choosing an OEM replacement part is pretty straightforward since there is typically one type available.
Is OEM as good as original?
Good quality
After all, an OEM product is the same product manufactured by the original manufacturer. Though there are cheaper versions, the price of the OEM product reflects its quality.
Which is better, OEM or aftermarket?
Which is better? Honestly, OEM parts are going to be your best option more often than not because the OEM designs both the vehicle and the part. The same design specs are used and the same factory makes the part, which means there will be less of a discrepancy from part to part.
What does OEM Ford parts mean?
Original Equipment Manufacturer
The acronym OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. This means that these parts were produced directly by the manufacturer, in this case Ford, or by one of their OEM-approved subcontractors.
What are the disadvantages of OEM parts?
Cons
- More expensive: OEM parts usually cost more than an aftermarket part.
- Need to be bought at the dealership: There are other ways to buy OEM parts (eBay, online wholesalers), but most people will visit a dealership to buy their parts.
What OEM brand does Ford use?
Motorcraft parts deliver the Original Equipment fit and function you need for Ford and Lincoln models.
Is it worth it to buy OEM products?
Guaranteed Quality
First and foremost, OEM parts are guaranteed to be a perfect fit and function properly. This high-quality standard is way worth it because there's nothing worse than spending money on a part that ends up not being compatible with your vehicle or not working the way it should.
What is Ford's aftermarket brand?
Omnicraft aftermarket replacement parts are designed to fit non-Ford/Lincoln vehicles and engineered to meet or exceed industry standards.
