Plenty of replacement parts are available on the market for your diesel vehicle. Aftermarket diesel parts are a popular option. These parts come from manufacturers that aren’t the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

Aftermarket diesel parts, however, are a double-edged sword. They come with their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of aftermarket diesel parts to help you determine whether they fit your diesel vehicle.

Pros

There are several advantages to using aftermarket diesel parts, including:

They’re Cost-effective

Aftermarket diesel parts are significantly more affordable than original equipment manufacturer parts. This difference is because off-brand manufacturers often don’t incur the same high overhead costs as OEM manufacturers. The price for an aftermarket part is almost always lower than for the same OEM component.

There Is a Wider Selection

Manufacturers who produce aftermarket parts compete against multiple other suppliers. As a result, you’ll have more choices in terms of styles, materials, and designs. Sometimes, aftermarket parts even have better designs than OEM parts.

They Provide Improved Performance

Some aftermarket parts can improve your vehicle’s performance. For instance, aftermarket performance air filters and exhaust systems can boost the horsepower and torque of your diesel engine. They do this by increasing the airflow that goes into and leaves your engine, boosting performance.

Cons

When choosing aftermarket diesel parts, these are also some disadvantages to consider:

The Quality Varies

In most cases, OEM parts ensure reliability, functionality, and longevity. With aftermarket parts, there is usually a wider spread of quality. Some suppliers can’t replicate the high-quality standards of the OEM parts. This difference can result in premature component failure.

There Are No Guarantees

Purchasing an aftermarket component also means taking on greater risk. Since the OEM does not produce them, there is no guarantee on how well they will perform, let alone how long they will last. There are plenty of instances of aftermarket parts failing soon after being fitted.

They May Have a Limited Warranty

Most aftermarket parts have a short warranty, sometimes as short as three months. This warranty is unlike OEM parts, which may come with long-term warranties. If the component fails outside the warranty period, you will likely have to pay out of your pocket to repair or replace it.

How To Decide

You should always weigh the pros and cons before deciding about aftermarket diesel parts. Consider your budget, the quality of the replacement part, and its expected life span to determine whether an aftermarket part is worth the risk. Sometimes, opting for a more expensive OEM part may be a better investment. Doing so can ensure that your vehicle parts are of the highest quality and reliability. Ultimately, carefully considering all your options can help you make an informed decision about diesel parts for your vehicle.

If you’re looking for Genuine Cummins parts, HFI Truck Center is an authorized Cummins parts dealer. We carry a wide selection of Cummins diesel parts, perfect for repairing and upgrading your engine. Shop now or contact us today to learn more about our aftermarket diesel parts and services.