Are OEM Scrape Guards Better Than Aftermarket?
If you need to replace one of your Subaru scrape guards, you may be considering an aftermarket part instead of going with OEM. In this blog, we examine each option to help you decide which is best for you. The best way to do this is to look at the main differences between them and see how they match up.
Pricing And Quality
You are most likely considering an aftermarket splash guard because they tend to be cheaper than OEM parts. While this may be true in some cases, you certainly get what you pay for.
OEM
- Can cost more upfront – Subaru Parts Plus offers OEM parts at wholesale prices
- Made of the same material as the original parts
- Designed to work perfectly with your model Subaru – OEM scrape guards are designed to protect your engine, fuel system, drive train and electrical components
Aftermarket
- May be cheaper than OEM parts – but that’s because you aren’t getting the same quality product
- Materials are low quality to keep prices low
- More likely to crack and break – costing you more in the long run, especially if it results in vehicle damage
Fit And Finish
An engine splash shield isn’t something you look at every day. In fact, you would need to crawl under your vehicle to inspect it closely. So, you may be wondering why fit and finish is an important consideration.
Well, the primary job of a splash guard is to protect the underside of your vehicle from damage. This includes dirt, water, and road hazards. A poor fit would leave vulnerable engine parts exposed.
We also supply scrape guards for your door panels, front and rear bumpers, and splash guards for your wheel arches. These are both more visible, so good fit and finish are even more important.
OEM
- Will fit exactly as the manufacturer intended
- Won’t need cutting or drilling to install
- Will protect your vehicle's engine, bodywork, and undercarriage exactly like the original part
Aftermarket
- Generic sizing may mean you will have to cut and drill the shield to get it to fit
- It may not protect important engine and/or electrical components
- Can damage your car by rubbing or scratching on bodywork
Warranty
If you have a damaged scrape guard that needs to be replaced (this post will help you decide) don't forget to research the warranty. A warranty is often overlooked when buying parts for a vehicle - yet - it can make all the difference if something isn’t quite right. The chances of an OEM part failing are low, but if it happens, you want to be protected with a comprehensive warranty.
OEM
- Every Subaru Parts Plus component comes with the manufacturer's warranty
- OEM parts are built to last, but the comprehensive warranty gives you extra peace of mind
Aftermarket
- Warranties vary – many suppliers simply resell imported parts with no structure in place to replace broken or damaged parts
- Some aftermarket manufacturers don’t have a warranty at all
- You may end up having to buy another part – negating any savings you may have made
OEM or Aftermarket?
It’s clear that OEM scrape guards offer superior quality, fitment, and value. Aftermarket parts may seem like a good option, but the added hassle and lower quality never pay off.
Subaru Parts Plus has been supplying quality OEM Subaru parts since 2005. We sell OEM parts at wholesale prices. And every splash guard, scrape guard, and door edge guard is backed by Subaru’s manufacturer warranty.
Our staff knows everything and then some about Subaru parts. So, call them at 1-888-294-4979 or online for the right part at the right price.