Quality VW Parts: OEM and Aftermarket - The Difference
Your Volkswagen, when it was built, came with certain parts that
met VW's stringent requirements. When it comes time to replacing
these parts, you need to equip your VW with only those parts
that meet or exceed manufacturer requirements. Generally, you
have two choices: OEM parts or aftermarket parts. There is a
difference between the two, let's take a look at exactly what
they are.
Your New Beetle is your prized possession. Ever since VW
released the revised Beetle in 1997, you have owned one and have
kept it maintained yourself. Could it be that you are missing
out on something? Are you paying too much for parts? Are there
other parts you can use on your New Beetle that are even better
than what came with your car? The answer to all three of these
questions is, Yes!
OEM parts are also known as original equipment manufacturer
parts. These parts are the same parts that were placed on your
vehicle when it was built. For example, if your car came with
Bilstein shocks, then your replacement VW parts
must be Bilstein shocks. Aftermarket parts are those parts
developed for your car after the car was released for sale
[brought to the market]. In the case of shocks, Monroe or some
other manufacturer may have created a line of shocks just for
your car. As long as those replacement shocks meet or
exceed stringent OEM specifications you are okay. If they
don't, then stay away from them.
So, how can you know which Volkswagen
parts are right for your car? That's easy. Your
automobile manual will tell you. In addition, a good auto supply
store can give you that information. Car Parts Stuff, for
example, lists all of their inventory right online so that you
are able to compare parts and prices by make and model. Whatever
parts are listed with your make, model, and model year, those
are the parts that are right for your car.
As mentioned earlier, you may be paying too much for your parts
if you purchase them through a retail establishment,
particularly one that uses a supplier. A wholesaler, on the
other hand, will purchase OEM or better parts directly
from the manufacturer. This assures you of two things:
1. The parts purchased are authentic. Too many counterfeit parts
get passed by as authentic when in reality they are counterfeit.
Buy direct from wholesalers to make certain.
2. You will pay less for parts purchased through a wholesaler as
no third party vendors will get a cut in the action.
Volkswagen parts that meet or exceed tough original
equipment manufacturer specifications are all that you will ever
need for your car. Be careful where you go to purchase
replacement parts and shop around to ensure that you obtain the
lowest prices for the best parts.