When getting a car serviced in Canberra a major cost difference will depend on whether you choose OEM, aftermarket or genuine auto parts. However, the parts differ more than just the price. So here is a quick handy guide to help you save money at your local, Canberra mechanic.
OEM
OEM, or Original Equipment Manufacturer parts are built by the same company that initially made the parts for the auto manufacturer. The OEM parts that mechanics carry are identical to the parts that came with your car. However, they do not carry the manufacturer’s logo.
Pros:
- OEM parts are just as reliable as genuine parts, but you get them for a better value.
- If you request a particular part at a dealership, you will receive the one that matches your vehicle. This means no comparison-shopping!
- The OEM parts are guaranteed to be 100% identically to the one it’s replacing. Plus you will still receive a one-year part and labour warranty as well.
Cons:
- OEM parts can cost as much as 60% more than aftermarket parts, but with independent auto-shops become more and more popular, this price gap is closing.
- OEM often need to be ordered into the mechanic, which can significantly increase the time it takes to be serviced.
Aftermarket
An aftermarket part is a part that has been built by anyone other than the car’s original manufacturer. And although the parts do not always look like the original parts, however, they don not void the cars warrentee (despite popular myth). The parts perform the function needed to operate the car and are the most cost-effective choice.
Pros:
- You often save a lot when choosing aftermarket parts, but this could be because of low quality, so double-check with your mechanic.
- Aftermarket sometimes solves original weaknesses of the original parts as they are made through a process of reverse-engineering.
- Aftermarket parts are available at your choice of an independent shop meaning your repairs can be completed as quickly as possible. Yet this depends on whether you trust your Canberra mechanic.
Cons:
- Because there are so many versions of each part, each of varying quality and price, you may feel overwhelmed with choices. This is where a trustworthy, technician is key, they can help narrow down the options so to find you the right aftermarket part.
- Not all aftermarket parts come with a warranty. Again, ask you trusted car mechanic to help you find the right part.
Genuine Auto Parts
A genuine part is 100% the same as the auto-part component that was originally installed in your vehicle when it was first manufactured. Genuine parts are the most expensive of auto parts because they carry the company logo. Keep in mind, that genuine parts are not necessarily better than OEM or aftermarket parts, but they do continue to preserve the value of the car. This makes it particularly important to use the genuine or similar quality car so to preserve to authenticity and quality of your vehicle, keeping it in the best possible condition.
Pros:
- The quality and performance are assured.
- Genuine parts are guaranteed to be compatible with your car.
Cons:
- The major con of genuine parts is the cost, as the quality guarantee, warranty and manufactures logo all add up.