Taking Care of Your Car Starts With Smart Part Choices

To keep a car in good running condition, it cannot simply be driven. It needs to be maintained. It needs to be repaired. Components need to be replaced to ensure that bigger issues do not arise. This philosophy is the same regardless of whether a car is brand new or has been in operation for years. Care for it, and it will last longer.

However, the question that pops up is, what do you do to keep a car maintained and repaired? Do you go with OEM parts or choose aftermarket alternatives?

With the automotive aftermarket in Egypt expanding, this question is becoming more and more prevalent. Based on a report by GMI Research, the Egypt Automotive Aftermarket Market will reach USD 2.5 billion in 2032. This indicates growth in repair parts, suppliers, and choices for car owners.

Let’s simplify the difference between the two.

OEM Parts: Constructed Specifically for Your Vehicle

OEM, or Original Equipment Manufacturer, designates car parts that are identical to those that originally came with your vehicle when it was brand new. Same design, same specs, same performance.

As a result, OEM parts provide the guarantee of a perfect fit without any modifications, and they include manufacturer warranties. The only downside to OEM parts are, those parts are typically much more costly than alternative options.

For many car owners, OEM parts are a sure bet.

Aftermarket Parts: Increased Options and More Affordable

Through third party manufacturing, aftermarket parts provide a more cost effective option than OEM parts. However, it is important to note that aftermarket parts are designed to fit many vehicle makes and models, thus resulting in a more generalized design and manufacturing process.

In some instances, aftermarket parts are OEM equivalent or even of better quality. However, with aftermarket parts, the potential of lesser quality exists and that is why brand reputation is essential.

The best upside and the primary reasoning for many buyers is the cost to the customer. Aftermarket parts can save drivers a considerable amount of money and provide the needed interruptions to their repair budgets.

Finding the Right Balance for Cost and Performance

When prioritizing cost savings, aftermarket parts are a good option. For a flawless factory fit, OEM parts are a good option, too. Many parts owners adopt a strategy that combines both approaches when replacing parts.

What is most important is to choose quality and reliable products no matter which category they fall into. Buying parts that are inexpensive and that break frequently costs more in the end.

Warranty and Longevity

OEM parts come with a manufacturer warranty that covers the parts for 1-2 years. While the manufacturer warranty is good to have, it isn’t the only option.

Warranties also differ by aftermarket brands. Some contracts only cover you are for a short time, while others cover to the same extent as OEM. How long they last depends on the brand’s quality, the driving conditions, and the warranty.

For parts to be bought and they be the right ones, time must be saved in the future.

In the end you have to make informed choices for your car and your needs.

Different for each driver are OEM and aftermarket parts for each individual, along with the age and longevity of the vehicle.

Simply put, prioritize brand, budget and longevity when making your choice. The car will remain dependable and repair costs will be affordable for those that choose quality for more than just the price.