Maintaining your vehicle ensures longevity, performance, and safety. A critical vehicle maintenance tip is choosing the right parts for replacements or upgrades. Whether you’re a mechanic or not, understanding how to select the correct parts for your vehicle is essential.

OEM vs. Aftermarket parts

Before diving into the selection process, it’s essential to understand the difference between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and aftermarket parts.

1. OEM parts

OEM parts are made by the vehicle’s manufacturer or their authorised suppliers. These parts are identical to those that came with your car when it was new. Pros of OEM parts include:

• Guaranteed fit and quality
• Often comes with a warranty
• Easier to choose as there’s typically only one option

OEM parts are usually more expensive and may offer slight performance improvement.

2. Aftermarket parts

Third-party manufacturers make aftermarket parts. They vary widely in quality and price. Pros of aftermarket parts include:

• Often less expensive than OEM parts
• May offer performance improvements
• Greater variety of options

The downside is that quality varies, and fitment is only sometimes guaranteed.

Steps to choose the right parts

1. Know your vehicle’s specifications

The first step in choosing the right parts is knowing your vehicle’s specifications. This includes:

• Make, model, and year
• Engine type and size
• Trim level
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

This readily available information will help you or your parts supplier identify the correct components for your vehicle.

2. Determine the part you need

For more details, consult your vehicle’s manual, a repair guide, or a mechanic. Many auto parts stores and online resources like moparsearch can help you identify parts based on your vehicle’s specifications and symptoms.

3. Research quality

Once you’ve identified the needed part, research its quality and reliability. This is especially important for aftermarket parts. Look for:

• Customer reviews and ratings
• Professional reviews and comparisons
• Brand reputation
• Warranty offers

Investing in quality parts saves you money in the long run by reducing the frequency of replacements and potential damage to other components.

4. Consider your vehicle’s age and your long-term plans

The age of your vehicle and how long you plan to keep it should influence your parts choices. For newer vehicles or those you plan to keep for a long time, investing in high-quality OEM or premium aftermarket parts is often worth the extra cost. Less expensive aftermarket parts might be a more sensible choice for older vehicles or those you plan to sell soon.

5. Consider performance needs

Certain aftermarket parts offer advantages over OEM parts if you want to improve your vehicle’s performance. However, be cautious about how modifications affect your vehicle’s warranty, reliability, and legal compliance.

6. Factor in installation complexity

When choosing parts, consider the complexity of installation. If you plan to install the part yourself, ensure you have the necessary skills and tools. Having a professional install certain parts may be more cost-effective in the long run.

7. Consider the warranty

Check the warranty offered with the part. OEM parts often have better warranties, but some aftermarket manufacturers offer competitive warranty terms. A good warranty provides peace of mind and saves money if the part fails prematurely.

Vehicle maintenance is an ongoing process. Regularly implementing these tips, including proper part selection, will help ensure your vehicle remains reliable and safe for years. Whether using resources for specific parts or consulting with professional mechanics, choosing the right parts is an investment in your vehicle’s future.

Paul watson