Is there a real difference between OEM and aftermarket car parts - expert explains
Through many years of advertising, a perception has been created that the parts supplied by car dealerships are "genuine", thereby implying that the parts sold by the aftermarket are inferior "copies". The truth is that car manufacturers only design and assemble cars. With some exceptions, they make relatively few components that are used in the assembly of a vehicle as it would be impossible to manufacture the many thousands of components needed for each model. For that reason, among others, they outsource the manufacturing of parts and components to various suppliers around the world. A supplier might win the right to supply a specific part to a car manufacturer for a specific model. That supplier might have several original equipment (OE) contracts in place with various car manufacturers. This is the nature of the supply chain where car manufacturers source parts and components from multiple suppliers depending on price and market logistics A little-known fact
