If you’re repairing or maintaining your car, you’ll quickly bump into the terms OE, OEM, and aftermarket. A lot of drivers don’t know the difference – and if you’re pulling parts yourself at a place like U-Pull-It, or browsing online for replacements, the line between them can feel even blurrier. Knowing what each term really means helps you pick the right part and avoid spending more than you need to.
OE vs OEM Parts: What’s the Actual Difference?
OE (Original Equipment) parts are the exact components your car left the factory with. They’re built for that model, to that manufacturer’s specification. Every brand-new car is fitted entirely with OE parts from bumper to bumper.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, on the other hand, are made by an authorised manufacturer once the car is on the road. They match the original specification, and in many cases they’re produced by the same company that made the OE version – just packaged differently.
A common misconception is that dealerships only use OE parts. In reality, even the manufacturer’s own workshops often fit OEM replacements during routine repairs. And because OEM parts are widely available, local garages (and DIY mechanics) can source them easily. You’ll often find OEM parts in U-Pull-It yards too, especially on vehicles that were dealer-serviced before reaching us.
Being able to spot the difference on a car in the yard means you can sometimes walk away with a high-quality replacement part at a fraction of the brand-new price.
What “Aftermarket Parts” Really Means (And Why There Are So Many)
Aftermarket parts are third-party alternatives designed to replace OE or OEM components. You’ll see them everywhere: motor factors, online shops, and fitted by independent garages. They’re usually cheaper – although high-performance aftermarket components can end up costing more than the original.
At U-Pull-It, you’ll often find used OE and OEM alternators for far less than buying new, which is why many DIYers check the yard first before ordering a fresh aftermarket or OEM replacement.
Some of the biggest aftermarket brands include Bosch, Delphi, NGK, EBC Brakes, and Blueprint. The best aftermarket manufacturers don’t just copy the OE part – they reverse-engineer it, find weaknesses, and improve on the original design.
Think:
- EBC improving brake compounds
- NGK offering cleaner, more reliable ignition
- K&N filters boosting airflow and longevity
Recognising these brands when you’re pulling parts in the yard gives you a good sense of what’s worth grabbing.
Aftermarket Parts: The Good, the Bad, and What to Watch Out For
Pros
Price
Aftermarket parts are usually cheaper than OEM, which is why insurers choose them for most repairs. If you’re repairing on a budget, it’s worth comparing the cost of a new aftermarket part with a used OE or OEM part from U-Pull-It. Depending on the part and its condition, the used option can work out cheaper – but it varies case by case.
Availability
Aftermarket parts are stocked everywhere and often available same-day. OEM parts sometimes have to be ordered in.
If you want something right now, a trip to U-Pull-It can often get you an OE or OEM component faster than waiting for a supplier to ship an OEM or even an aftermarket replacement.
Quality Options
The aftermarket world is huge. There are budget options, mid-range choices, and premium parts that outperform OE components. Many cars arrive at U-Pull-It already fitted with those premium upgrades – and when you know what to look for, you can grab excellent parts for a fraction of their new price.
Cons
Quality Variability
The big downside is inconsistency. Some aftermarket parts are excellent; others cut corners. When pulling aftermarket parts at U-Pull-It, it’s worth checking the condition and wear. For many DIY mechanics, the price difference makes that trade-off worth it.
Warranty Differences
OEM parts usually come with strong warranties. Aftermarket warranties vary massively — some are generous, others are basically nonexistent. Used OE or OEM parts from U-Pull-It won’t include a warranty either, so the choice often comes down to budget versus peace of mind.
So, OE parts are what your car originally came with. OEM parts are authorised replacements made to the same spec. Aftermarket parts range from affordable alternatives to upgraded versions designed to outperform the originals.
So which should you choose?
- OEM if you want guaranteed quality and a correct fit.
- Aftermarket if you want flexibility and price options.
- Used OE/OEM from U-Pull-It if you want the best balance between cost and quality.
Whatever route you take, U-Pull-It gives you access to OE, OEM, and aftermarket components – all ready to inspect, remove, and fit on your own terms.
Find your next part at U-Pull-It today and keep your repair budget under control.
