What is the difference between OEM and factory parts?
In practical terms, OEM and factory parts are typically the same family: components built to the vehicle’s original specifications. The difference lies in labeling and supplier: OEM refers to parts made by the original equipment manufacturer (or its approved suppliers) to the carmaker’s specs, while “factory parts” is a marketing term often used to mean genuine parts that came with the car at the factory or are sold as genuine by the dealer. Either way, they’re intended to fit your car exactly and usually carry a warranty; the cost and availability can vary.
Definitions and scope
The vocabulary around these terms can be confusing, because different sellers use them differently. Here’s a clear breakdown of what they typically mean in today’s market.
OEM parts
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These parts are produced by the maker of the vehicle’s original parts—or by an approved supplier contracted by that maker. They are engineered to match the vehicle’s exact specifications. OEM parts are usually sold through authorized dealers or approved retailers and often carry the manufacturer’s warranty or a comparable guarantee. In many markets, “Genuine OEM” is used to emphasize authenticity.
Factory parts
Factory parts is a term commonly used to describe genuine parts sourced through the carmaker’s official network. In many cases, this label implies parts that were designed for, manufactured for, or installed by the factory and are sold as authentic by the automaker or its authorized dealers. That said, some retailers use “factory” more loosely to mean genuine but dealer-sourced parts, which can blur the line with cheaper aftermarket options.
Key takeaway: the labeling matters more for price and availability than for fit, since both OEM and factory parts are intended to match the original components.
Types of parts and labeling
For shoppers, the practical distinction boils down to who made the part and how it’s distributed. The following characteristics cover the main cases you’re likely to encounter.
- OEM parts are made by the carmaker or an approved supplier to the same specifications as the original parts. They’re marketed as Genuine OEM and are available through authorized dealers. They typically come with a manufacturer warranty and ensure exact fit and performance.
- Factory parts are often marketed as genuine, OEM-equivalent parts and can be identical to OEM. In some regions, the term is used interchangeably with Genuine OEM; in others, it may indicate parts that were installed at the factory or by the dealership rather than aftermarket alternatives.
Bottom line: intend to preserve exact fit, function, and warranty when you want certainty; the term you see on a receipt or a box is less important than confirming the part number, the source, and the warranty terms.
Practical guidance for buyers
When replacing parts, there are practical considerations beyond terminology. Here is how to decide what to buy for your vehicle.
- If your car is under factory warranty or you value guaranteed fit and parity with the original equipment, prioritize OEM/factory parts and purchase through the dealership or an authorized retailer.
- Always verify the exact part number and compatibility with your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A look-up on the OEM's site or a parts catalog is essential.
- Compare price, warranty, and availability. High-quality aftermarket parts can be cheaper, but ensure the brand has a good track record and offers a warranty comparable to OEM.
- For safety-critical components (brakes, airbags, steering, suspension), many manufacturers require or strongly recommend OEM parts to maintain warranty and safety standards.
- For non-safety cosmetic or internal components, reputable aftermarket parts can be an economical option if fit and finish meet your expectations.
Always check the retailer’s return policy and warranty terms when buying aftermarket parts; when in doubt, consult your dealer or the vehicle manufacturer for guidance.
Summary
OEM and factory parts are part of the same family—authentic components designed to match a car’s original equipment. The main differences are branding, distribution channels, and price. For guaranteed fit and warranty coverage, opt for Genuine OEM/factory parts through authorized channels; for budget-conscious repairs where the risk is acceptable, reputable aftermarket alternatives can be suitable, provided you verify compatibility and warranty terms.
Is OE or OEM better?
While OE parts are designed to match the original components in terms of function and fit, they might not come from the original manufacturer. OE parts are generally less expensive than OEM parts, but their quality may not be on par with the exact components originally installed.
What is the difference between factory and OEM?
Original or genuine parts are components that are included in the product when it is first built at the factory. OEM parts are designed and produced by the original manufacturer; however, they are typically used as replacement parts.
Are OEM parts the same as factory parts?
What is the difference between OE vs OEM parts? OE (Original Equipment) parts are the exact parts originally installed in a product when it was manufactured. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the same manufacturer but sold under a different brand through a Value-Added Reseller (VAR).
Which is better, OEM or original?
OEM Car Parts
Our OEM parts are precisely the same as those that came with your car. The difference is that they don't carry the manufacturer's logo. OEM parts are just as reliable as genuine parts, but you get them for a better value.
