Aftermarket Offers Choice: Find Better and Less Expensive Auto Parts

Need to replace your car’s water pump? Did you know the company that made your car didn’t necessarily make the water pump in your car, and that there’s a good chance there may be a less expensive water pump available than the replacement part your car dealer recommends?

That’s right better or less expensive, possibly even better AND less expensive!

You ask, how’s that possible?

Well, the fact is, there are many part manufacturers with a multitude of aftermarket part applications (in addition to what the dealer might recommend) that will perform seamlessly in your vehicle.

Where Can You Find Aftermarket Replacement Parts?

Aftermarket replacement parts can be purchased through your independent service provider (and sometimes even your car dealer) as well as many online and retail outlets.

Replacement parts are a big business and it’s competitive!

Your responsibility is to be knowledgeable about your alternatives and purchase what best fits your needs and wallet.

What You Should Consider When Purchasing Aftermarket Parts?

Here are the major things you should consider when you purchase aftermarket parts:

• Who manufactured the replacement part and what’s the company’s reputation? It goes without saying, you wouldn’t want to buy a part from a part manufacturer with a lousy reputation.
• Is there a certification assigned to the part manufacturer or part? Mechanical part manufacturers’ processes can receive ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certification whereas collision parts can be recognized for meeting CAPA (Certified Automotive Parts Association) standards.
• What are the part’s design and performance attributes? Not all parts are engineered identically. Materials and components may differ. You may want a part that’s more efficient or provides superior performance to what the vehicle manufacturer initially installed. Aftermarket replacements will frequently recognize deficiencies with the original part and improve on the performance.
• What’s the warranty and lifetime expectation of the part? Warranties can differ in scope and length. If you only intend to keep your car another year or two, a full lifetime warranty may not be necessary.
• How much is the part and is the price right for me? There are many price points and the highest priced part may not be the best part for you or your car.

Information can be found online or you might consider speaking with a parts or service adviser.

A trusted advisor can explain all of your options and help you to make a more informed decision.