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Parts FAQ


  If a part on your vehicle demands replacing there are  three options for replacement.
  Researching parts
  Locating parts?
  Add-on accessories
   

 



 

If a part on your vehicle demands replacing, there are three options for replacement.

 
       
  1. First, you  can find a factory Original Equipment part by either going  through a dealer or contacting the manufacturer directly. Factory parts are  built by the manufacturer to the exact same specifications as the existing  parts. New OE components are generally the most expensive option but often  yield the best fit, durability and overall quality. If you own your vehicle and  are thinking of reselling, documenting repairs using factory parts can increase  the resale value of the vehicle.
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  3. Second, you can find a new aftermarket part from a variety of parts dealers online and  at shops around the country. Aftermarket parts are often exact replicas of OE  parts but are built by companies not associated with the primary auto  manufacturer. While aftermarket pieces are less expensive than their OE  counterparts, they also may suffer in terms of quality, fit and finish.  Aftermarket parts are great to get a car back up to speed if the budget is an  issue and fit/quality do not matter. However, some aftermarket companies  produce pieces that are of exceptional quality.
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  5. Third, you  can find a used factory (or maybe even a used aftermarket) part at a salvage  yard or from a private seller. Good used factory parts are a great way to save  money and get an OE specified piece at the same time. Obviously, used parts are  subject to wear and are highly variable in their quality and usability.
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Researching parts

To  determine the best method of replacing a part, check with you dealer, owners of  similar vehicles and on the Internet to determine what option makes sense. You  know the new OE part will work, so read online testimonials to see if  aftermarket replacements are worth the cost. You can also gain insight that's  helpful in a used search, learning the common defects/attributes of a part  before buying it yourself.

Locating parts?

Many suppliers offer both OE and aftermarket parts for a broad range of vehicles. Some specialty parts may not be produced in the aftermarket if demand does not warrant investment. Tracking down these obscure pieces may require consulting a parts specialist. Some dealers have caches of unused factory parts, often called New Old Stock (NOS) or New Old Replacement Stock (NORS).

Add-on accessories

Like replacement parts, some add-on accessories are factory authorized while others are produced in the aftermarket. Depending on the popularity of a vehicle, a variety of special components exist to modify it. Engine enhancements, body kits, interior pieces, electronics, exhaust systems, wheels and tires are among the many elements that contribute to customization.


  There are many ways to customize your vehicle without spending a lot of money. If you're looking to do a lot of modifications, but don't have the cash all at once, purchase one accessory at a time. I would never recommend using a cheaper brand or exterior auto part of lesser quality to hurry the process of customizing. Be patient and only buy what you can afford.