Original Equipment Manufacturer or OEM parts are designed and engineered for the creation of a specific car. It is sourced from the car’s original producer. Basically they are the exact same type of part that you car came with when you first brought it from the manufacturer. Aftermarket parts, or non-OEM parts, on the other hand are made by third party companies. They are built with respect to OEM standards but without certainty of having the exact same quality as the original ones. This article will help you understand the difference between authentic Dodge OEM parts and the aftermarket versions.
The question there is that are OEM parts really of better performance than non-OEM parts? Is the quality you’re getting in consonance with the sum you paid? Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of OEM and non-OEM products.
The most obvious difference between OEM and non-OEM parts is their prices. OEM equipments are overwhelmingly more expensive than their third-party rivals. That is always the problem with original brands. But if you’re one to take risks, used Mopar parts are available on the Internet. Non-OEM products are relatively cheaper, and with the number of third party manufacturers out there you are bound to find something that will suit your needs and your budget. If prices were deal breakers, non-OEM wins hands down.
You think you got a good deal by purchasing a cheaper imitation until you plug it in and next thing you know the quality is just as cheap. You think you saved yourself from spending too much until you notice that with the rate at which you replace the parts again and again you’re actually spending as much as if you were buying OEM parts that have been proven and tested to last longer. Then you realize that when it comes to choosing between OEM and non-OEM, price value doesn’t always matter.
The next, and probably most important, attribute is the quality of the products. OEMs always guarantee quality products besting others in the market. They are manufactured for and with your car; they’re sure to fit its specifications. With high end cars like Chrysler you are duty bound to purchase original products otherwise you are going to suffer from bigger expenses if more damages are incurred. Mopar, Chrysler’s official auto parts and service provider, boasts products of excellence. They have Mopar Jeep parts that are engineered to keep up with your Jeep’s off-road activities.
The selection of products will also come into play. The extensive assortment of aftermarkets is both a good thing and a bad thing. If you’re a car expert and has a keen eye for quality products you shouldn’t have a problem picking out what’s best for you and your car. Beginners have the tendency to look at the wrong details. OEM produces uniform products. Like when you’re looking for a water pump for your Dodge Challenger your bound to find only one type of this Dodge OEM part, but rest assured it is one that is truly appropriate.
If you’re surely sold out on OEM parts, getting them might be another challenge. They are usually sold only at official dealers and from the manufacturers themselves. Non-OEM parts are available at all car shops and even junk shops.
Economical crisis makes car owners only dream of OEM parts, forcing them to opt for cheaper imitations. But as you’ve purchased an elite car such as Dodge, you are bound to treat it with nothing but Dodge OEM parts. Although it has been proven that OEMs give quality satisfaction to their consumers, there are still some renowned companies that deliver the same quality at a lower price. If you’re really on a tight budget it is good to note that it is okay to buy aftermarket “sacrificial” parts such as brake pads, stereos and batteries. When replacing internal engine parts always use OEM-certified products. It is always better to be safe than sorry and following the old adage..a penny saved is a penny earned.
