Replacement Parts

Motor vehicles are made up of thousands of individual parts and vehicle manufacturers are in the unenviable position of having to be able to supply virtually every one of them, not only for the vehicles they are currently making, but for many past models as well.

However genuine, or original equipment (OE) parts are only one source of replacement parts, and there are other options that, depending on the circumstances, may also be worth considering when the need arises.

OE V non- genuine

While vehicle manufacturers are expected to supply parts for the vehicles they produce, there is a whole industry involved in producing non-genuine replacement parts. However the aftermarket industry generally only makes parts that are commonly needed and which will sell in reasonable volume. Typically this includes service parts such as filters, spark plugs and brake pads. Non-genuine repair parts such as pistons, rings, gaskets and bearings are also readily available as are a range of commonly used crash repair parts. But there are many parts that will never be available from aftermarket suppliers. Generally this includes parts that are not commonly required, are too complex to justify manufacturing in small numbers or where designs have some form of legal protection.

Quality

The quality of replacement parts can vary widely. Many OE suppliers also supply the replacement part industry with components that are essentially the same as those provided to the vehicles manufacturer. However there are also parts that are of questionable origin and quality. For the average person however, telling the quality of one part from another can be almost impossible. In many cases the only measure of quality you will have is the reputation of the retailer and the brand of the parts you buy.

Price

Many believe that non-genuine parts are cheaper than OE spares, however this is not necessarily the case and parts shoppers would be well advised to check prices and availability from all available sources.

Used and reconditioned parts

Where a new part is costly or not available, a second hand part may be an alternative.

But its important to remember that the part youre buying is used. Its condition may be difficult to fully assess and any warranty that comes with it will reflect this. Many wreckers or parts recyclers only offer a replacement warranty, which means if the part is no good they will replace it with another used part, but they generally wont cover the costs of removing and refitting it.

Reconditioned components are often a viable and cost effective source of replacement parts and many companies specialise in the overhaul of a wide variety of automotive parts and assemblies. Reconditioned engines and transmissions are commonly available as exchange units, as are power steering pumps, steering racks, starters, alternators and even engine management computers.

Second-hand safety related items such as seat belts, brake components and steering joints should not be fitted. It is safer to use a new or reconditioned part.

Warranties on reconditioned components vary from supplier to supplier, but in some cases can equal that of a new part.