Japanese trucks are made of quality materials, regardless if they’re heavy-duty haulers or light commercial vehicles. This also means when it comes to repairs or replacements of certain parts, you need to find high-quality components that are of the same caliber as genuine Japanese truck parts. This is where customers are torn between purchasing genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts and aftermarket parts. Understanding the key differences between the two will help you make informed decisions on which product to buy for your needs.

Quality and reliability: discerning the core difference between products.

The difference between genuine OEM parts and aftermarket parts all boils down to two factors: quality and reliability. Genuine OEM parts are produced by the same manufacturers as your truck, which means they have the same quality and functions as the original. This also entails that they’re the perfect fit, given how they have the same specifications as your truck’s make and model.

On the other hand, we have aftermarket parts that are manufactured by third-party companies; they have almost the same functions and fit as the original, but they fall short on some aspects like the fit, quality, and materials.

Other key aspects that make genuine OEM parts different from aftermarket parts.

Warranty. Between the two products, genuine OEM parts have the advantage in this aspect. Given how they come from the same manufacturer as your truck’s original parts, they come with a warranty which gives you protection from defects and peace of mind. On the other hand, aftermarket parts don’t always come with a warranty; some do, but most don’t, so you need to be wary when buying.

Fit and compatibility. Another important aspect that differentiates the two is fit and compatibility. Since the parts or replacements come from the original manufacturer, genuine OEM parts are guaranteed a perfect fit—and they’re also designed to fit your truck. You’ll have no problem when it comes to installation since you don’t need to do any modifications. In contrast, aftermarket parts may have a few discrepancies in the design, so you may need to modify and adjust the parts to install them correctly. On top of that, you also have to be mindful of their compatibility since they may not be a good fit for your truck’s system.

Considering budget constraints: weighing cost and availability.

Judging from the information above, there’s no doubt that genuine OEM parts are the better choice when it comes to quality, durability, and overall functions. However, they also come with a higher price tag compared to their counterpart. There’s also the fact that genuine OEM parts may be harder to find, especially if you have an older truck or a less common model. This is where aftermarket parts have the advantage; they’re widely available and can be purchased easily in the market. Plus, they also come with a wide collection from different manufacturers, so you’re bound to find the part you need easier.

Which should I choose: genuine OEM parts or aftermarket parts?

Now that you know the major difference between genuine OEM parts and aftermarket parts, you have a better understanding of which one is best suited for your needs. At the end of the day, if you have the budget and are looking for quality parts that will last for a while, then it’s best to choose genuine OEM parts. On the other hand, if you have financial constraints and are looking for something that can answer the main functions of your previous part ASAP, then you could just settle for aftermarket parts.