Is the Extra Cost of OEM Parts Worth It?

2020 Atlas

Before you take your summer road trip, it is important that you bring your Volkswagen to the shop for an inspection and preventative maintenance. You want to be confident that your vehicle is in tip-top shape when you hit the road. When it comes to parts repair, you might have wondered if original Volkswagen parts are superior to aftermarket parts? Is the extra cost worth it? And in what situations should you use only OEM parts? Below we have answered these questions to help you make a more informed decision when choosing what parts to put into your car.

Aftermarket Parts

Aftermarket parts are any parts that are not sourced from the vehicle’s manufacturer. As long as the parts are direct replacement parts, you will not risk voiding your car’s warranty. It is estimated that roughly 80% of independent mechanic shops use aftermarket parts so if you plan to visit one of these shops make sure you’re dealing with a good mechanic and that you request high-quality aftermarket parts.

Be wary of aftermarket parts because quality varies greatly. Because they are often cheaper, some aftermarket parts are inferior because they use lower-quality materials. Keep the saying “You get what you pay for” in mind when shopping for car parts. Another thing to keep in mind with aftermarket parts is the overwhelming selection. Something as simple as a spark plug could be made by over 20 different companies, meaning the quality could vary greatly. When the price difference is not substantial it is best to simply choose the OEM part.

OEM Parts

OEM parts are made by the vehicle’s manufacturer. These parts match your vehicle as they were made specifically for it. OEM parts are easier to choose as each manufacturer usually only makes 1 or 2 of each part. This way you don’t have to be concerned with the quality of various brands and prices. With Volkswagen OEM parts, there is a greater assurance of quality. The OEM part is made to work exactly like the part you are replacing, providing peace of mind in its performance. Manufacturer parts also come with a warranty. They are usually backed up with a one-year warranty and if you get your car repaired at a dealer, such as Esserman International, they will usually stand by their labor as well. 

When it comes to collision repairs, it is especially crucial to request OEM parts since aftermarket body panels may not fit correctly or have suitable crumple zones for accident safety. If you lease your car, consider only OEM parts, since aftermarket parts will decrease your vehicle’s value and may cause you to lose part or all of your security deposit. 

In the end, the choice is up to you but consider that all aftermarket parts are not created equal but all OEM parts are! Genuine Volkswagen Parts fit and perform like factory originals—so you can be confident that your purchase is the right option for your VW. Customize your car to suit your personal tastes with Volkswagen Accessories, which offer everything from added style to comfort and protection. At Esserman International, we have the genuine VW parts you need to keep the ride smooth for many more miles to come. Just select your Volkswagen Model on our website to shop our catalog of Genuine OEM Volkswagen Parts. Have questions? Call us any time at (305) 728-8341. At Esserman International Volkswagen, you’re always in good hands.

See the links below to check out available Genuine VW parts and for more information.

https://parts.internationalvw.com/

https://parts.vw.com/

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