Are Original Factory and Original Equipment the Same?
2 Answers
Original factory and original equipment are not the same. The so-called original factory refers to the original manufacturer of the product, meaning that the product is produced by the designated manufacturer. Original equipment products are not necessarily original factory products. From a packaging perspective, it means the product has not been opened or used since leaving the factory. Additional information is as follows: 1. Original Factory Genuine Product: Refers to products directly produced by the original manufacturer, inspected and approved for sale to dealers or consumers. Original factory genuine products are also known as authorized products, typically referring to items directly manufactured by the original producer, inspected, and approved for distribution to dealers or end-users. These are distinct from substitutes, imitations, defective items, or counterfeits. 2. Original Equipment: Original equipment denotes products manufactured by the original factory, not those assembled by outsourced or other authorized manufacturers.
From a mechanic's perspective, this is quite an issue. Genuine parts come directly from the vehicle manufacturer, with both quality and compatibility rigorously tested. In most cases, 'original parts' also refer to this, meaning authentic components. However, some small workshops in the market slap 'original' labels on counterfeit products, with incorrect part numbers or inferior materials, which can easily cause problems. For example, installing fake brake pads increases braking distance and raises the risk of accidents. I recommend car owners purchase genuine parts from 4S stores or authorized dealers—though more expensive, they ensure safety and save money in the long run. If the warranty is voided, it’s not worth the hassle. Aftermarket parts like wiper blades or bulbs may work, but for core components like engine parts, genuine is best. Always check the part label before replacing anything—don’t cut corners when buying, as your car is your partner, and proper maintenance ensures safety.
