I need to learn something new today.

What is OEM parts? What is aftermarket parts?

I always purchase my parts from the local toyota dealer. It always kills me how much I can save purchasing parts on ebay or even Auto Zone.

There is a seller on ebay with the name NVTHAI. He has a 100% rating with thousands of sales. He was highly recommended by a friend.

Can someone tell me the difference between buying parts from a dealer or from ebay...NVTHAI? Are these the same parts that I could get from NVTHAI the same I would get from the dealer without the extra cost? I would like to start saving money.

Where do you buy your parts?

thank you.

 

OEM = stock parts

Aftermarket = parts made by companies to fit the bill

I personally try to do my homework here and on other forums to see if there are aftermarket companies that actually produce the Toyota OEM parts. For example, I'm looking at installing an auto tranny cooler. Aftermarket but made by Hayden - and from what I've read Hayden makes the TRD auto coolers for Toyota. Also there's a specific brake pad you can buy from Autozone (Performance something or another, I think) that is the same as the TRD brake pads.

Of course, this is after making sure there are multiple confirmations from good reliable sources.

If all else fails, I just go to NAPA.

 

well.. does that seller say theyre OEM?

OEM just means they were manufactured by toyota. if he's selling genuine toyota parts for less, go for it.

if theyre aftermarket... be careful.

 

Thanks all...I appreciate the quick responses

Lee, you mean to say that Toyota actually makes (manufactures) parts. I thought all along that parts were made by other companies and toyota just puts their name on it.

Thanks for educating me. Any other information I should know?

 

well if not toyota, its toyota factory approved (ie is a direct replacement part for one that came on the truck from the factory).

 

BTW, OEM stands for "Original Equipment Manufacturer" and not necessarily toyota in this case...

 

So I guess the safest way to buy parts is from the dealer. Is this an accurate statement? If not, how do you know if the part is good for the truck or if will last as long as the dealer part? I am getting a sense to keep buying parts from the dealer.

thanks again for all your comments.

 

ultimately i think it's all relative to what you plan to buy. Some items are best buying OEM while others are best aftermarket.

Tell us what you're planning to buy and we'll be able to better say which is better