4X4 car drivers are known to take pride in their vehicles, having opted for more power and often sacrificing speed or (depending on the make) aesthetic appeal. Getting 4X4 parts can be a headache though, especially without knowing the basic distinctions between genuine, OEM and replacement parts.

Genuine Parts

Car manufacturers supply these parts and in most cases they have the company logo and/or marking to show this. Land Rover, for instance, has parts with company brand marks. For certain clients, this is important and a sign of trust which translates to a purchase.

OEM Parts

The acronym stands for 'original equipment manufacturer'. Such manufacturers usually have an arrangement or agreement with the vehicle maker. They brand their own products even though they are bought and fitted by vehicle makers just like many other parts found in the vehicle. These parts are available separate from the automotive company in spite of their being in many ways identical to the original parts.

Replacement Parts

These are also called aftermarket parts. They are made by many different manufacturers as alternatives that cost less than the original parts. It has been discovered however, that the quality is inconsistent and dubious. Having said so, it is important to note that there are cases in which some replacement parts are even better than the original and those from more reputable firms.

When sourcing for parts for consumers most companies make the following considerations:

• Are there genuine/OEM parts especially older ones for older vehicles?
• What do the genuine/OEM parts cost? Finding new and genuine parts for some vehicles may be impossible and therefore going for a replacement part is the better option.
• What is the part's purpose? Parts to be used for competing or transit of heavy goods are definitely available but at a higher cost. It is still better to focus on quality than price because of safety concerns.
• Value? Companies monitor the different parts being added to their stock and reject items that do not meet their quality standards.

These companies rely on vehicle manufacturers, other parts manufacturing companies and auction sites or even wrecking sites where 4x4 auto parts are by the plenty. This is the reason if a part cannot be found in the shop you enter, then other links are followed until that part is available for the client to use.

For more information on 4x4 parts, talk to a professional.