As a car owner, I have often faced a dilemma when choosing replacement parts for my vehicle. On the one hand, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are expensive, but on the other, there is a risk involved in using aftermarket parts of unknown quality.
Get ready to rev up your car’s performance with the best aftermarket auto parts! In this article, I spill the beans on my quest for the top 5 brands you can trust. But beware, using aftermarket parts can cause a bumpy ride, so there will also be a few tips on recognizing the good stuff.
What are Aftermarket Auto Parts?
If you’re unfamiliar with the term, aftermarket auto parts are produced by third-party manufacturers instead of the original manufacturers of your car. They offer cost savings and broader availability than OEM parts, which can often be similar to or even better quality than the original.
With the automotive industry expanding after the Pandemic pitfalls, there have never been more aftermarket parts manufacturers out there. Still, it is important to be cautious when it comes to selecting the right parts for your vehicle.
Some aftermarket products may not meet the same quality standards as OEM parts and may even be dangerous to use. It’s important to research, purchase from reputable manufacturers, and always consult a trusted mechanic before making any modifications to your vehicle.
Top 5 Brands for Aftermarket Auto Parts
Finding an aftermarket item of excellent quality can be challenging. Off course by Googling ‘automotive aftermarket companies can give you a head start and help you find potential suppliers. However, it’s essential to do your research and read customer reviews before making a purchase.
You don’t want to end up with a low-quality product or be scammed by a fraudulent company. It’s also good to compare prices and product specifications from various suppliers to ensure you get the best deal.
Also, here is a list of my personal preferences; you can find some factual product reviews as an extra perk.
Denso Corporation
Based in Kariya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan is a world-renowned supplier of fuel pumps, oxygen sensors, and other chassis components. They have been around since 1949 and their products are distributed in over 140 countries worldwide.
This global automotive components manufacturer makes parts for Toyota and Bosch primarily. However, when comparing different manufacturing products, Denso definitely takes the primate in some car product features.
A great example is the spark plugs Denso manufactures. They have a benefiting TT system, a ‘twin tip’ technology that ensures a larger explosion within the combustion chamber.
Robert Bosch
Robert Bosch is a highly respected and reliable brand for aftermarket auto parts. The company produces various products, from spark plugs and oxygen sensors to fuel pumps and engine control units. All of their products are manufactured with the highest quality materials and rigorous testing standards, ensuring that each part will perform reliably and last for many years.
I already wrote about A/F sensors, known as ‘wideband’ O2 sensors. The Bosch lambda series, for example, is pretty decent.
Lear Corporation
Lear Corporation is an American company specializing in producing automotive parts and accessories. They have been in business since 1917, and they produce a wide range of products, from seatbelts and airbags to steering wheels and accessories.
Lear’s product line also includes an extensive selection of aftermarket parts such as air filters, spark plugs, oxygen sensors, wiper blades, and more. Their parts are designed with the highest quality materials and rigorously tested for durability and performance.
AC Delco
AC Delco has been a leading American aftermarket parts supplier in business for over 100 years. The company produces an extensive line of replacement parts, including spark plugs, air filters, power tools, and other maintenance items. They also offer a wide selection of performance parts such as shocks, brakes, and suspension kits.
This one should be on your check-list items, especially when it comes to their suspension parts, brake pads, and rotors. I was pleasantly surprised to find out about the product lines other aftermarket companies don’t really offer.
Moog
Last but not least, Moog is another American company that produces high-quality aftermarket parts. The company specializes in producing steering, suspension, and driveline components for a wide range of vehicles. Their wheel bearings give a run for the money, neck and neck, with Timken and SKF.
They offer an extensive selection of parts such as tie rods, ball joints, sway bars, and control arm bushings. All of their products are engineered to meet or exceed OE specifications and are rigorously tested for performance and reliability.
Challenges and Risks of Using Aftermarket Parts
While aftermarket parts can offer cost savings and wider availability, there are some risks involved. One of the biggest risks is safety. The question of quality parts may not meet safety standards and can put you and your passengers in danger.
Additionally, some insurance companies may not cover damage caused by aftermarket parts. Before choosing aftermarket parts, it’s important to research the manufacturer and ensure that their parts meet safety standards.
How to Recognize a Good Aftermarket Brand?
Recognizing a good aftermarket brand can be challenging, but some key factors must be considered. Here are some tips on how to recognize a good aftermarket brand:
- Look for brands that have been in business for a long time and have a reputation for quality.
- A good aftermarket brand will produce parts that meet or exceed OEM standards and have a warranty to back up their products.
- Reputable aftermarket brands will use high-quality materials and employ rigorous testing procedures to ensure the safety and reliability of their parts.
- Look for certifications and approvals from regulatory agencies, such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) or the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
Conclusion
Aftermarket auto parts can offer cost savings and wider availability than OEM parts, but choosing a reputable manufacturer that produces high-quality parts that meets safety standards is important. It’s crucial to do research and read reviews before making a purchase.
While some aftermarket parts may be cheaper, they may not be as reliable as OEM parts. Additionally, using aftermarket parts could affect your vehicle’s warranty. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.