Comparing Genuine vs. OEM Auto Parts: Is There a Difference?

If you’ve ever taken your care into a used auto parts store looking for a part, the service technician may have asked you if you want OEM, aftermarket, or genuine auto parts. Although the differences are often subtle, there can be a significant difference in the level of quality of each. Below we explain the differences between each and which is best for your car. Ace Auto Parts carries a wide selection of auto parts. If you are looking for a specific auto component, please ask us.

Do Auto Manufacturers Make Their Parts?

There was a time when auto manufacturers built every part of their cars. Those days are long past, however, as most manufacturers now contract other companies to produce parts for them. This is not necessarily a bad thing because many of the companies specialize in developing and creating these parts for specific manufacturers. Therefore, they’re designed no differently and with no less quality.

Breaking Down the Different Type of Auto Parts

Replacement auto parts are categorized by the company that built them or how and when you buy them. Let’s describe and compare the parts.

Genuine. A genuine part is an auto component that was installed in your vehicle when the vehicle was first manufactured. Genuine parts are more expensive than any other types of auto parts because they carry the company logo. Keep in mind, that genuine parts are not necessarily better than OEM or aftermarket parts. We can give you recommendations on which parts to buy based on the quality and performance of the parts and not who made it.

OEM. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are built by the company that initially made the parts for the auto manufacturer. The OEM parts we carry are precisely the same as the part that came with your car. The difference is that it doesn’t carry the manufacturer’s logo. OEM parts are just as reliable as genuine parts, but you get them for a better value.

Aftermarket. Once a car is built, companies can manufacturer parts that will work for that vehicle. To do this, they buy the rights to make the parts. The aftermarket parts we sell do not always look like OEM or genuine parts, but they perform the function needed to operate the car. Just like you can trust OEM parts, you can also rely on aftermarket parts to work well.

Ace Auto Parts Has What You Need

No matter what type of part you need, Ace Auto Parts has what you’re looking for. We carry a large selection of used auto parts, used tires, and used batteries. If you have a specific part you’re looking for; you can download our app and instantly find what you’re looking for. You can also call us at 651-717-4299, or you can message us on our contact page. We provide used auto parts for vehicle owners in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota.