Whether you’re restoring a classic vehicle or simply need to replace a faulty component in your ride, purchasing car parts is often a necessary—yet challenging—process. Because the car parts you install in your vehicle can significantly impact the value and safety of your ride, it’s important to choose wisely. To ensure that you find the best quality components for your vehicle, here’s what to consider when purchasing auto parts.

The Type of Car Part You Want

There are several different types of car parts to choose from when finding a replacement. Some of the most common types of auto parts include genuine, OEM, aftermarket, and used. 

• Genuine Parts: A genuine part refers to the exact component that was installed in your vehicle when it was originally manufactured. Such parts generally cost the most in comparison to the other types of parts on this list.
• OEM Parts: OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. Like genuine parts, an OEM part is the same part that originally came with your vehicle. However, OEM parts don’t have the manufacturer’s logo on them and typically have a lower price. 
• Aftermarket Parts: Aftermarket parts are vehicle components designed to suit your vehicle but have been made by a different company than the original manufacturer.
• Used Parts: Used vehicle parts are generally removed from a scrapped or salvaged vehicle and typically have the lowest cost.

Compatibility

After determining the type of part you wish to purchase, it’s important to consider compatibility. To ensure that the part works properly in your vehicle long-term, you must choose a part that is designed for your specific car brand and model. While a part that is made for a similar model may work at first, it will likely end up causing damage to your vehicle later. For the safety and longevity of your ride, you should only install replacement parts that are compatible with your vehicle’s particular model.

The Seller’s Reputation

Another important factor to consider when purchasing auto parts is the seller’s reputation. Not all sellers are trustworthy. In some cases, a seller may sell you a faulty component or tell you that a part is genuine when it actually isn’t. To avoid getting scammed into purchasing a defective part, make sure to do your research on the reputation and reliability of the seller.

At AE of Miami, we are committed to providing high-quality auto parts at competitive prices. In addition, we also offer an extensive inventory of branded and clean title cars for sale. To ensure that you know exactly what you’re getting, we always offer full transparency on all of our listings. To learn more about our products, browse our online collection or contact us today!