Choosing replacement parts for a vehicle often comes down to one decision: OEM or aftermarket. OEM parts come from the vehicle’s original manufacturer, while aftermarket parts are produced by third-party manufacturers.
At Raybuck Auto Body Parts, we specialize in aftermarket restoration and replacement parts, especially body and sheet metal components for older cars and trucks. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right part for your next repair or restoration.
Key Takeaways
- OEM parts come from the vehicle’s original manufacturer, while aftermarket parts are produced by third-party manufacturers.
- OEM parts typically cost more, while aftermarket parts usually offer a wider range of price points and choices.
- Fitment and quality can vary between aftermarket manufacturers, so it is important to evaluate each part carefully.
- Steel grade, gauge, construction, and corrosion protection are important factors when comparing replacement body panels.
- Aftermarket parts can be especially useful for older vehicles when OEM components are difficult to find or no longer readily available.
Did you know? Almost all replacement body panels sold by Raybuck Auto Body Parts receive EDP coating to help protect them during transportation and storage before installation and refinishing.
What Are OEM Automotive Parts?
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. An OEM replacement part is supplied by the vehicle manufacturer and is intended to match the specifications of the component originally installed on the vehicle.
OEM parts can be a good choice when:
- You want a part supplied by the original vehicle manufacturer.
- Factory specifications and branding are important.
- The correct OEM component is readily available.
- The higher price fits your budget.
- Manufacturer warranty coverage matters to you.
The tradeoff is that OEM parts are often more expensive than aftermarket alternatives. Availability can also become limited for older vehicles or components that are no longer produced.
For many projects, the decision is less about choosing one category for the entire vehicle and more about selecting the best available part for each repair. A restoration may use OEM components in some areas and quality aftermarket parts in others.
What Are Aftermarket Automotive Parts?
Aftermarket parts are produced by companies other than the vehicle’s original manufacturer. They can serve as replacement, repair, restoration, or upgrade components.
Quality, materials, construction, and fitment can vary by manufacturer, so it is important to evaluate the individual part rather than judge it simply by the “aftermarket” label.
Raybuck Auto Body Parts carries quality aftermarket replacement panels and other restoration components from established manufacturers.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts: Quick Comparison
| Factor | OEM Parts | Aftermarket Parts |
| Manufacturer | Original vehicle manufacturer | Third-party manufacturer |
| Price | Typically more expensive | Generally more affordable |
| Selection | Limited to manufacturer offerings | Usually broader |
| Fitment | Intended to match the original component | Can vary by manufacturer |
| Quality | Built to manufacturer specifications | Varies by product and manufacturer |
| Availability | Depends on manufacturer supply | Often more choices available |
The better choice depends on the component, available replacement, and goals of the repair.
What Are the Biggest Differences Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts?
Price
OEM parts usually cost more because they are supplied through the original vehicle manufacturer. Aftermarket parts are generally available across a wider range of price points.
Price should not be the only consideration. Materials and fitment also affect overall value.
Fit and Fitment
OEM parts are intended to match the original vehicle component. With aftermarket parts, fitment can vary depending on the manufacturer and how the part was engineered and produced.
This is especially important with replacement body panels. Before purchasing, confirm that the part is listed for the correct year, make, model, and body style.
Materials and Quality
Aftermarket quality is not identical across every manufacturer. For steel body panels, factors such as steel grade, gauge, stamping accuracy, and construction matter.
Raybuck Auto Body Parts emphasizes high-grade, heavy-gauge steel and precision manufacturing in the replacement panels we source. Learn more in our guide to automotive steel grade and gauge.
Corrosion Protection
Corrosion protection is another consideration for replacement steel panels. Many replacement body panels use electro-deposit primer, or EDP coating, to help protect the panel during transportation and storage before installation and refinishing.
Almost all replacement body panels sold by Raybuck Auto Body Parts receive EDP coating. Read more about EDP coating for body repair panels.
Selection and Availability
Aftermarket parts generally provide a wider selection than OEM parts. This can help with older vehicles when original components are difficult to locate.
For rust repair, the aftermarket may also offer individual repair sections for specific damaged areas. Browse our rust repair and patch panels for examples.
When Should You Choose OEM Parts?
OEM parts may make sense when originality is a priority and the correct factory replacement is available. They can also be suitable when you specifically want the original manufacturer’s specifications, branding, or warranty coverage.
Consider OEM when:
- You are preserving a highly original vehicle.
- Factory-correct components are important.
- The OEM part is readily available.
- Budget is less important than maintaining manufacturer-supplied components.
When Should You Choose Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts may be a better fit when cost, selection, or availability is a major consideration. They are especially useful for older cars and trucks that need rust repair, body restoration, or replacement sheet metal.
Consider aftermarket parts when:
- You want more replacement options.
- An OEM part is difficult to find.
- You are repairing rusted or damaged body panels.
- You need to keep project costs manageable.
- You are restoring an older vehicle with limited factory parts support.
Raybuck Auto Body Parts offers auto body replacement parts for many restoration needs, including rocker panels, cab corners, floors, fenders, and wheel arches.
How to Choose High-Quality Aftermarket Parts
Before ordering, check the following:
- Confirm compatibility with the vehicle’s year, make, model, and body style.
- Buy from a reputable manufacturer or supplier.
- Review the material and construction.
- Consider steel grade and gauge for body panels.
- Look for corrosion-protection coatings where appropriate.
- Review fitment information carefully.
- Compare overall quality and value, not price alone.
For more guidance, read our guide on how to choose the right auto body replacement parts.
Find Quality Aftermarket Replacement Parts at Raybuck Auto Body Parts
The right choice between OEM and aftermarket parts depends on the vehicle, component, repair, and budget. For many restoration and rust-repair projects, quality aftermarket parts provide a practical way to keep older vehicles on the road.
Raybuck Auto Body Parts supplies replacement body panels and restoration components for classic cars, trucks, and other vehicles. Learn more about how we select and support the products we carry on the Raybuck Advantage page.
