Knowing Your Options Before Repairing Your Vehicle

Taking your vehicle for repairs will likely present to you the question of OEM versus aftermarket. It may sound technical at first, but it ultimately boils down to your priorities. Is cost, quality, availability, or peace of mind the most important to you?

In the UAE, there is rapid growth in the number of cars on the road resulting in drivers holding on to their cars for longer periods. This makes this type of conversation more relevant as vehicle ownership increases. According to GMI Research, the UAE Automotive Aftermarket is likely to earn over 1.7 billion USD in the period 2025-2032. This is ample proof of the frequency with which drivers seek repairs and replacements outside of dealerships.

Now, we will consider this in the simplest manner.

What Do OEM Parts Actually Mean?

OEM is an abbreviation for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These are the exact same pieces that your car is built with at the factory. This is what you get by default when you go to a dealership for services.

With an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part, you know it will come with fitment and functionality guarantees, across all comparisons and specifications with other brands. The part fits and works like the original, and almost always comes with warranties that cover both parts and labor. This concern is shared by most drivers, and especially so for newer cars that may still be under warranty. The key disadvantage will always be with respect to cost. OEM parts can be very expensive, and in certain cases, availability could be an issue. Dealers will sometimes need to order the parts which could inevitably delay repairs. Then, there are aftermarket parts. These parts are made by a company other than the manufacturer of the vehicle, and there appears to be a popular myth that using aftermarket parts voids the car warranty. This is not true, as that would only be the case if the part doesn't conform to original specifications, and is a direct replacement. The most apparent advantage is the price factor. These parts are very cost effective and could make a significant difference in repairs, especially for older vehicles, or if the repairs are budget limited.

You can also looking at other brand parts. Different brands sometimes offer engineering enhancements uplifting quality to other brand differences. Better stopping power in brake pads. Avoiding bridge on the bounce with suspension components. Some people are ok with a little more noise compared to other brands.

They can also get parts faster. Small mechanic shops can get aftermarket parts faster than the more expensive branded parts.

Where the aftermarket industry gets tricky

Too many options depending on price can lead to poor performance. Finding a mechanic you can trust is important for finding the right balancing option.

Another main variable is warranty options and aftermarket parts. Some have positive warranty options and others have nothing. Finding a balance in price and warranty is usually achievable.

Which Options are Better?

There is no right answer to the question. Some people enjoy the aftermarket options for the performance and cost management, while others prefer the practice of knowing the branded options are on a car they are driving.

Your values and the age of the car should determine the choice.

The first step to making a stress free decision is to understand your options and work with a repair shop that you trust.