OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts | Greenville SC

Should you choose OEM or aftermarket parts for your ride in Greenville, SC?
Does your Audi need a part replaced? There may come a time when you’ll need to purchase a new part for your vehicle, and when that time comes, you’ll have two options: aftermarket products and OEM parts. To help drivers choose between these two options, we’ve broken down the differences below.

What are OEM parts?
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are car components built and distributed by an auto manufacturer. When you shop Audi OEM parts, you can be confident that these parts are identical to the original components installed in your vehicle. They’re built exactly the same and meant to function the same as well. You can order an OEM part directly through a qualified distributor and install it yourself, or order it through a dealership’s service center and have an experienced service technician install it for you. While it may seem more expensive to purchase OEM parts, you may find that in the future your Audi is better off with auto parts built specifically for that model and recommended by the manufacturer.
What are aftermarket parts?
Aftermarket parts are car components created and distributed by third-party manufacturers. They are not specific to a vehicle make or model and can be purchased on websites like eBay or Amazon. These parts tend to be less expensive than OEM parts, but while the price point may be enticing, we recommend you avoid purchasing these for your vehicle (unless you are an expert at installing aftermarket parts). Aftermarket products may be inexpensive at first, but they can cause long-term damage to your Audi, leading to costly repairs in the future. Additionally, these parts may not last as long as you’d like, and you’ll have to replace them frequently.


Benefits of Choosing OEM Parts Over Aftermarket Products
Here are a few benefits of choosing OEM parts over aftermarket ones:
- Ordered and shipped exclusively by authorized dealers
- Backed by a manufacturer warranty
- High-quality
- Reliable
- Long-lasting
Because of their low quality, aftermarket products don’t have the same benefits as OEM parts. Also, aftermarket parts may void warranties on your vehicle. We encourage you to review your manufacturer’s warranty page to see if the part that needs to be replaced is still covered or if any warranties will be impacted by using an aftermarket part. When you opt for OEM parts, you can feel confident in their durability and longevity. OEM parts were designed specifically for your vehicle, making them the perfect fit.
Why Audi OEM Parts are the Right Choice for Your Vehicle
Audi offers a limited warranty on new Audi parts and accessories sold through authorized Audi dealerships in the United States. This coverage is one of the many reasons we recommend choosing Audi OEM parts over aftermarket parts.
Thinking about DIYing a part replacement? Save yourself time, money and any frustration and trust the experts for your part replacements. Schedule an appointment with the expert technicians at Audi Greenville. We’ll install the part for you and have you back on the road with time to spare.

To find out more about the Audi OEM parts we carry, contact us today or stop by our dealership at 200 Duvall Drive, Greenville, SC 29607. We look forward to serving our customers near Spartanburg, Anderson and throughout the Upstate.
*Check out this Audi Parts and Accessories Limited Warranty from the Audi manufacturer for more information.