How To Choose the Best Aftermarket Semi Truck Parts
You need new parts for your semi truck. Should you buy OEM, or should you buy aftermarket? OEM, which stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, are parts made directly by the vehicle's producer.
Aftermarket parts, conversely, are components sold by a third-party company. Many truck owners prefer aftermarket parts because, when bought from a reputable source, they tend to be similar in quality to OEM but at a much more reasonable price.
That said, because they're third-party, you need to be much more careful when you shop for them than you would be for OEM parts. Here are some tips on choosing the best aftermarket semi truck parts so you can get the quality you need at a lower cost.
Check for a Warranty
A warranty is a manufacturer's promise to stand behind its product. If a company offers a warranty, it shows they have confidence in their part's performance and longevity. Before you purchase an aftermarket part, you should confirm it comes with a warranty. This gives you a recourse if the part fails prematurely due to a manufacturing defect.
Don't just settle for any warranty, though. Make sure you carefully review the terms and conditions. Find out how long the coverage lasts and what exactly it covers. Some warranties might only cover the cost of the replacement part, while others might also include labor costs. A clear and comprehensive warranty is a positive sign about the part's quality.
Verify the Seller's Reputation
The reputation of the seller tells you a lot about the quality of their products. You'll want to purchase from established sellers with a history of positive customer feedback. You can often find reviews and testimonials on the seller's website or on third-party review platforms.
Look for patterns in the feedback. Are customers consistently satisfied with their purchases? Do they mention the durability and performance of the parts? A seller with a strong track record of satisfied customers is more likely to offer reliable products.
Confirm Part Compatibility
Not all aftermarket parts will fit every truck model. You need to confirm that the part you're interested in is compatible with your semi truck's make, model, and year. Mismatched parts can cause damage to your vehicle or just fail to work correctly. It's a frustrating and expensive mistake to make.
Most reputable sellers provide detailed compatibility information for their products. You can usually find a list of supported vehicles on the product page. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to contact the seller's customer support for clarification. They should be able to help you confirm you're buying the correct component for your truck.
Assess the Quality of Materials
The materials used to manufacture a part directly influence its durability and performance. High-quality materials can withstand the rigors of the road and last for a long time. When you evaluate an aftermarket part, pay attention to what it's made of.
For example, if you're buying a metal component, is it made from corrosion-resistant steel or a durable alloy? For plastic parts, are they made from high-grade polymers that can resist heat and impact? Sellers who are proud of their products will often list the materials used in the product description. This information helps you make an informed decision on what you're buying.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews offer real-world insights into how a part performs over time. Previous buyers can share their experiences with installation, fit, and long-term durability. Reading a range of reviews gives you a more complete picture of what you can expect from a part.
Pay close attention to detailed reviews that explain both the pros and cons. A single negative review isn't necessarily a red flag, but a consistent pattern of complaints about a specific issue should be a cause for concern. Conversely, numerous positive reviews that highlight a part's reliability are a very positive indicator.
Check for Certifications
Some aftermarket parts come with certifications from industry organizations. These certifications demonstrate that a part meets specific quality and safety standards. Independent bodies test and verify certified parts to confirm they perform as expected.
Common certifications include those from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) or the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The presence of these credentials on a product's packaging or description is a strong indicator of a quality component. It shows the manufacturer is committed to meeting recognized industry benchmarks.
Compare Prices Thoughtfully
While aftermarket parts are often more affordable than OEM parts, you should still be wary of prices that seem too low. An unusually cheap part might be made from inferior materials or lack proper quality control.
Compare prices from a few different sellers for the same or similar parts. This comparison helps you understand the average market price. A price that's far below this average could be a warning sign. It's better to pay a reasonable price for a reliable part than to save a little money on a component that might fail quickly and cost you more in the long run.
Examine the Return Policy
Even with careful selection, you might occasionally receive a part that doesn't fit or meet your expectations. A fair and straightforward return policy protects you in these situations. Before you buy, you should review the seller's return policy to understand your options.
Find out how long you have to return an item and what the conditions for a return are. Does the seller offer a full refund, or is there a restocking fee? A seller with a customer-friendly return policy is generally more trustworthy and confident in the products they sell.
Seek Recommendations
Word-of-mouth recommendations can be very valuable. Talk to other truck drivers or mechanics you trust. They might have firsthand experience with certain brands or sellers of aftermarket parts and can offer you their opinions.
You can also join online forums or social media groups dedicated to truck owners and mechanics. These communities are great places to ask questions and get recommendations from a wide range of experienced individuals. Their collective knowledge can point you toward reliable parts and steer you away from problematic ones.
Evaluate Customer Support
Good customer support is a sign of a reputable company. Before you make a purchase, consider reaching out to the seller with a question. How quickly and helpfully they respond can tell you a lot about the level of service you can expect if you run into any issues later.
A company with responsive and knowledgeable customer support is more likely to stand behind its products. They can assist you with compatibility questions, installation advice, and warranty claims. This support can be very helpful throughout the life of the part.
Your Source for Quality Aftermarket Parts
The next time you're shopping for semi truck parts, use these tips to steer clear of fakes or low-quality knockoffs and choose top-quality components from the aftermarket.
If you're searching for a reputable dealer that ships to your area, consider us here at Higgs Parts. We carry high-quality, affordable commercial truck parts you can use to upgrade or replace outdated or worn components. With a wide selection of fifth wheel couplers, hydraulic parts, pneumatic parts, and much more, you'll find all you need for your truck in our online store.