The German car specialists at Starko Auto Services speak in a language full of acronyms. After all, our ASE certified technicians often work with OEM parts in the BWE (Best Work Environment). ASE stands for stands for Automotive Service Excellence, but what does OEM mean. No, OEM is not an alternative rock band based in Southern California. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer and the term plays a significant role in determining the quality of European auto repair.
OEM Defined
OEM parts represent auto parts designed and manufactured by the automaker that produced the vehicle. For example, an OEM part for a Mercedes-Benz must come from a Mercedes-Benz production line. OEM parts are identical to the original part that was part of the vehicle that rolled off the manufacturer’s assembly line. An OEM part can range from an oil filer to the grill on the front of a German made vehicle.
Pros of Buying OEM Parts
Why do many of our customers demand OEM parts for their BMW, Porsche, and Audi vehicles? The answer lies in the wish to have the same brand name part deliver high caliber automotive performance. Are there other pros to purchasing OEM parts?
Quick Delivery
When an auto shop searches for an aftermarket auto part, it typically makes numerous phone calls and spends an inordinate amount of time on the phone trying to locate the aftermarket part a customer wants to install. With an OEM part, we contact the manufacturer directly to purchase the part. One phone call, one click of a computer mouse, and your OEM part is on its way to our San Fernando Valley auto shop. Ease of acquisition reduces the stress caused by receiving European auto repair service.
Better Quality
Because an OEM part is sent directly from the German automaker to our German auto repair shop, you enjoy a higher level of quality. Manufacturers typically guarantee OEM parts for a specified period to back product quality claims. Automakers guarantee the quality of OEM parts by including at least a one-year warranty. The OEM part that replaces a defective part provides the same high performance the original part delivered. If you have the OEM part installed at Starko Auto Services, the manufacturer of the vehicle model usually covers the cost of labor.
Expert Service
At Starko Auto Services, we recommend our customers purchase OEM parts because OEM parts are what our team of ASE certified technicians knows best. We receive extensive training on the installation of OEM parts offered by Mini, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and BMW. When you take your vehicle in for an aftermarket part installation at another auto shop, you might have to deal with a technician who is not an expert in installing the aftermarket part.
When you want a new German OEM auto part, Starko Auto Services is the auto shop to take care of your vehicle.
Cons of Buying OEM Parts
OEM parts tend to cost more than the price of aftermarket parts. Studies have calculated OEM parts on average cost 60% more than aftermarket auto parts. For vehicle owners on tight budgets, lower prices seal the auto part deal. This is especially true for expensive auto parts such as a new transmission or exhaust system. Is cost the only downside of using OEM parts?
Almost Dealer Exclusive
Most OEM parts come from manufacturers through the back door of auto dealerships. The local mechanic probably does not have the OEM product in stock and the business does not have a strong relationship with the automaker that manufactured the OEM part. However, Starko Auto Services defies the conventional wisdom that only dealerships represent the connection consumer need to access OEM parts. We have developed an efficient distribution system with virtually every automaker to deliver OEM parts to our San Fernando Valley auto shop.
Call Starko Auto Services to receive a free estimate on an OEM auto part replacement. We ensure the quick arrival of the OEM part your vehicle needs to deliver optimal performance.
