Are you looking to repair part of your car? When it comes time to source parts, you might be asking the age old question: OEM or aftermarket? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about OEM auto body parts and how to make the right choice for your project.

What are OEM Auto Parts?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) body parts come from the same suppliers as your vehicle’s original components. Since these parts are engineered directly by the manufacturer, they will easily and perfectly fit any aspect of your vehicle. That means no guesswork when it comes to aligning hoods, fenders, or bumpers.

When identifying OEM parts, make sure to:

Purchase from a reputable supplier.
Inspect packaging and parts numbers to make sure it’s the correct product.
Confirm the fit is correct.

With the CAPS part finder, you can quickly and easily locate the perfect part and place an order in no time.

OEM vs. Original Parts

When it comes to replacing car elements, OEM parts are just as reliable as those installed on the factory floor. Generally speaking, OEM is the best choice for maintaining your vehicle’s performance, especially for essential systems like braking or suspension.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

Identifying the difference between OEM and aftermarket parts is relatively easy: simply determine who manufactured the part. Aftermarket parts are produced by manufacturers other than the original supplier, which means they can offer a range of design variations, materials, and price points. However, because they are not made by the original distributor, aftermarket parts might not fit as well or last as long as OEM parts.

Pros and Cons of OEM Body Parts

When deciding whether to choose OEM or aftermarket parts, here are some simple things to consider. OEM parts are great because they are:

High-quality
Engineered to fit
Relatively cost-effective

However, some disadvantages of OEM parts include:

High costs when compared to aftermarket.
Can be hard to find, depending on the make and model.
Longer wait times are required when special orders are required.

Our experts may recommend certified aftermarket alternatives for budget-conscious repairs on older vehicles.

OEM vs Aftermarket: Which is Better?

Non-OEM components make sense in specific scenarios, including:

Vehicles older than 10 years
Non-structural repairs (mirror caps, trim pieces)
Temporary fixes before selling
Customization projects

For critical systems like airbags or steering, we always recommend OEM parts.

Choose CAPS for Autobody Parts

Central Alberta Paint & Supplies (CAPS) has served Alberta drivers and DIY enthusiasts since 1964. With over 80,000 SKUs and two shops in Red Deer and Edmonton, we provide rapid access to OEM and certified aftermarket body parts, along with professional-grade paint and finishing supplies. We stock:

Call us today to find out if your part is in stock.

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