The Boys and Toys of Muscle Cars

OEM Or Aftermarket Car Parts: Which Should You Choose?

August 11th, 2009 admin

OEM Or Aftermarket Car Parts: Which Should You Choose?

Most of the components and systems under your car’s hood will eventually fail and need to be replaced. Your catalytic converter, alternator, and fuel injectors (as well as everything else) are susceptible to wear and tear. When a part fails, you’ll have two main options: replace it with an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) part or an aftermarket unit.

For most people who are on a limited budget, choosing between the two options isn’t simple. Indeed, there are pros and cons to each. I’ll describe the advantages of using both aftermarket and OEM replacements below. Then, I’ll explain how to find the right balance for your budget.

Benefits Of Using Aftermarket Components

Automakers rely upon other companies to produce most of the parts used in their vehicles (as opposed to doing it themselves). When a particular component is built by a company other than the original, it is considered an aftermarket unit. The main advantage to using this option is that it’s less expensive than using OEM components. Another advantage is that there might be dozens (or even hundreds) of companies that specialize in producing a particular item. That means a larger selection from which to choose. That said, quality of the items can vary and they are seldom covered by a warranty.

Benefits Of Original Equipment Manufacture Parts

Original equipment manufacturer units are produced by the company which built them for the automaker. The selection is not as large, but that can often be a benefit. When you purchase an OEM item, you’ll know exactly what to expect. It will be a perfect match for the original piece you’re having the mechanic replace. Plus, there is no uncertainty about its quality. The component is built to meet a stringent standard of performance. Another significant advantage over aftermarket units is that OEM items are covered under a warranty.

Finding The Right Balance

The main drawback of buying original equipment manufacturer components is the price. In effect, they’re more expensive. If you’re on a limited budget, the premium you’ll pay for them may be difficult to absorb. However, keep in mind that you’re paying for the peace of mind of knowing that a certain standard of quality has been met. What’s more, the warranty provides an additional financial buffer in the event an OEM component unexpectedly fails.

Some of the items under your car’s hood should be fine if you replace them with aftermarket units. However, you should use only original equipment manufacturer units to replace items such as your starter, alternator, or catalytic converter. The biggest drawback of relying upon components built by third-party companies is the range of quality with which they’re built. Some are good and some are not. Often, trying to save a few dollars on the front-end can end up costing far more (in both time and money) down the road.

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How To Properly Maintain Your Car

October 6th, 2008 admin

How To Properly Maintain Your Car

Car maintenance is one of those chores that most people prefer not to think about. After all, it’s inconvenient, confusing, and often costly. Unfortunately, if you don’t maintain your vehicle regularly, it can develop mechanical and electrical problems. When that happens, the cost to repair the problems can become exorbitant. By taking care of your car through regular maintenance, you can avoid having to deal with major repairs in the future. Below, we’ll provide you with a few pointers for maintaining your vehicle and ensuring it has a long, useful life.

Fix Engine Problems Quickly

All cars will eventually exhibit signs of engine problems. Parts wear out through continued use, so you should have the expectation that your engine will need periodic repairs. The good news is that you can avoid major engine problems simply by having it tuned up on a regular schedule or when you notice warning signs.

For example, your engine may hesitate or stall sporadically. Or, you may notice that it starts hard in the morning. When you notice such things, have a mechanic run a diagnostic test. If repairs are necessary, having them done early can prevent costly problems later.

Regular Oil Changes

You should have the oil in your car changed every 5,000 miles. Over time, it degrades and becomes less capable of properly lubricating the moving parts of your engine. By replacing the oil, you can help ensure that the degradation never reaches the point where your engine suffers. If you neglect to change it regularly, you run the risk of major mechanical issues developing. And repairing them can be expensive.

The “Small” Details

You should routinely check the connections of your car’s battery. Even if it has a full charge, the cables can accumulate dirt and grime, making the connection loose. If that happens, it can interrupt the distribution of the battery’s charge.

Also, check your car’s brakes and tires periodically. If you notice squealing in your brakes or pulsing in the pedal, you may need to replace the fluid and pads. And when your tires show signs of wear on the side walls, replace them. Otherwise, make sure the tire pressure remains at the manufacturer’s default level.

Maintaining your vehicle doesn’t have to mean spending your entire weekend getting dirty. By keeping your car’s engine tuned, having the oil changed every 5,000 miles, and occasionally checking the battery, brakes, and tires, you can avoid costly mechanical problems in the future. And that peace of mind is worth the effort.

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