What is the difference between aftermarket headlights and OEM headlights?

[SarahDella]

The following are the differences between OEM and aftermarket headlights: 1. Sealing performance is different: The outer shell of OEM headlights maintains good sealing performance, while the outer shell of aftermarket headlights may degrade in sealing performance. 2. Price and quality are different: OEM headlights are relatively cheaper than aftermarket headlights, with slightly inferior materials, resulting in slightly lower quality. 3. Workmanship is different: OEM headlights for cars are printed with the car's logo, featuring fine workmanship without flaws or burrs, whereas aftermarket headlights have rough workmanship with burrs, rough edges, and unclear printing.

[GabrielaFitz]

The main differences between aftermarket headlights and OEM headlights lie in cost and quality. Having repaired cars for many years, I've seen too many owners opt for aftermarket headlights to save money, only to find them yellowing or leaking within a short time. OEM lights are designed by the automaker, perfectly matching the vehicle model with uniform brightness and reliable safety. Aftermarket versions are usually imitations from small factories, costing half as much but made with inferior materials prone to aging—cracking in winter and fogging in summer. Installation often brings issues like misaligned clips or short circuits, causing the entire lighting system to fail. In the long run, the savings from aftermarket lights are offset by higher repair costs and added hassle, so I recommend choosing OEM whenever possible. Additionally, aftermarket lights don’t meet safety standards, which may raise issues with insurance claims after accidents and cause problems during annual inspections.

[VonCaden]

As a car owner, I replaced my headlights with aftermarket ones last year. The original ones cost 800 yuan, while the aftermarket ones were only 400, so I went for the cheaper option without hesitation. However, after just six months, I noticed the light was scattered, making it hard to see the road at night, which compromised safety and forced me to replace them again. The original headlights are more expensive, but they are more durable. The mechanic mentioned that the original headlights have the best sealing and lens matching from the factory, making them less prone to dust accumulation or water ingress. Aftermarket headlights may look shiny, but the materials are thinner and more fragile, with a shorter lifespan—frequent replacements end up wasting money. My friend’s car has been using original headlights for three to four years without any issues, while my aftermarket ones failed in less than a year, leaving me full of regret. When choosing headlights, don’t just look at the price tag—consider long-term safety and driving experience as more important factors.

[LeFrancisco]

As a car enthusiast, I've paid attention to the differences in lights. OEM lights are customized by the manufacturer, with precise lens and reflector designs that ensure even light distribution. Aftermarket lights are mostly imitations, assembled from various parts with inconsistent quality, making them prone to malfunctions. There's a significant price difference between the two, but their performance is worlds apart.