What Does Aftermarket Mean?
2 Answers
Aftermarket parts refer to components produced by manufacturers not authorized by the original vehicle manufacturer. These parts bear their own factory name and trademark but do not feature the vehicle brand's logo (doing so would be illegal). They are typically labeled with text such as "Suitable for ××, ×× models." More details about aftermarket parts are as follows: 1. Introduction One: These aftermarket parts are generally produced by smaller factories, though some international manufacturers also produce them. For models produced domestically, the longer they have been on the market, the more aftermarket parts become available. 2. Introduction Two: The "Big Three"—Santana, Jetta, and Fukang—serve as classic examples. For newer models launched in recent years, aftermarket parts are relatively scarce. Even when available, they are usually limited to components with "lower technical requirements," such as glass and lighting fixtures.
The term "aftermarket parts" is quite common in the auto repair industry. Simply put, these are parts not produced by the original car manufacturer. For example, if you need to replace a bumper, buying directly from a 4S dealership means getting genuine OEM parts, which are very expensive. However, those parts made by small factories that mimic the original design but lack official certification are called aftermarket parts. I've seen many people deliberately choose aftermarket parts to save money, but here's a word of caution: quality is really a gamble! Some parts from reputable OEM suppliers perform well, while those from small workshops—like lamp covers that turn yellow in six months or clips that break easily—are problematic. If you're just after affordability, aftermarket parts might work, but for critical components like brake pads, I'd advise you to think twice.