WHAT ARE OEM PARTS AND DO I NEED
THEM?
Many people wonder what it means when parts for their
vehicle are OEM. OEM means that the
parts meet or exceed the specifications of your vehicles manufacturer
(manufacturer original equipment)
Parts meeting OEM specifications can be very important
for your vehicle to function properly.
Problems can develop when not using OEM parts.
For
example, catalytic converters and oxygen sensors are available in universal
options. These are made to “fit”
many vehicle models. Often times,
these “universal” parts do not fit exactly right and do not communicate with
your vehicle's computer correctly, causing the check engine or service engine
lights to come on. When you
vehicle's computer detects false information from your oxygen sensors, it will
try to compensate by adjusting the air to fuel ratio sending excess fuel into
your engine. Over time this can
cause a decrease in your fuel mileage and can foul your spark plugs. Using OEM parts will avoid these costly
problems.
Brake pads and shoes are another area where OEM quality
is very important. Brakes are
available in many materials and grades.
Semi-metallic brake pads are often available in 3 grades – Premium (OEM),
Mid-grade, and economy. Mid-grade
and economy may fit fine but there is the risk of brake noise, shorter life of
the pads and decreased stopping distance.
Ceramic brake pads also have a mid-grade available but again, noise and
shorter life may occur.
Non-OEM parts may save money in the short term but can
be very costly in the long term in additional repairs and possible break
downs.
OEM
parts does not mean the parts must be purchased from the manufacturer or
dealer. Many OEM parts are now
available aftermarket, resulting not only a savings but quicker
availability.
At
Miller's