The Ultimate Guide to European Aftermarket Parts
The global auto parts aftermarket has been booming these last few years and is expected to reach about $1.4 trillion by the end of 2024. Right now is the best time to invest in this market, as it can get you some great deals down the line.
But if you're interested in this market, you probably know how confusing it can be as well. It can get even tougher to manage when dealing with specifics such as the European aftermarket.
We here at UroTuning understand that. So, we made this ultimate guide to European aftermarket parts all for your convenience.
What Are Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts are parts you can use to replace your vehicle's parts whenever something goes wrong or they break down. Other parts that are commonly used are OEM parts and salvaged parts.
Your car insurance and repair shop will usually determine which one is better for your car. There are pros and cons to all three, but aftermarket parts are some of the best you can get. Here's why:
- Lower priced
- High diversity
- Third-party made which makes them more accessible
- Can fit into almost any car make
- Same quality as OEM parts
These are just some of the many benefits. If you're interested in investing in any of these parts, here are some tips to help you choose which ones are best for your vehicle.
Know What Parts Your Car Needs
When you take your car to a repair shop, your insurance can choose the parts for your vehicle without notifying you. This, of course, leaves you with little to no options on how to fix your car.
To avoid this, know what parts need replacing. Ask if European aftermarket parts are an option.
And if you're okay with aftermarket parts, be sure to ask which ones they're using. For example, you need to know if your car is using Mercedes parts for the sake of maintenance.
Know Your Car's VIN
Your car has a unique VIN or a vehicle identification number. It's 17 characters long and is alphanumerical.
The car you own has a completely different VIN than any other registered vehicle, so knowing it is crucial. There are multiple places to find it, such as on the plates, inside of the driver's door, and the windshield.
Knowing this number will make finding the right parts much easier.
Compare European Aftermarket Parts
This one comes as no surprise. You should find a few parts you like and compare them for pricing and quality purposes.
If you're investing in European parts specifically, it's even more important ensure you compare them. This is because you probably won't have access to the items until they're shipped and delivered.
Ask yourself a few questions:
- Which is cheaper?
- Are they a good source?
- Do they have integrated engineering?
Knowing which one is best for your vehicle will save you time and money in the long run.
Does The Supplier Offer a Warranty?
Here's the situation: an accident happens to your car and you need repair. You have the part replaced, but months or years later, it breaks down too.
Okay, no worries. Except there's no warranty on that replaced part, and you have to pay for another one.
To save time and frustration, ensure the supplier you're buying from offers a warranty beforehand.
Talk To A Specialist or Technician
You might be super car-savvy, but there's always more information to learn, especially in the world of automobiles and parts. Things can get super confusing.
Talk to your repair technician and see what they suggest. It might change your perspective on which aftermarket part is right for you.
We'd also like to invite you to talk with us here at UroTuning. We're experts in the auto parts industry, and we have a wide variety of European aftermarket parts, such as BMW performance parts, ready for purchase.
Feel free to contact us here if you have any questions or general comments. Additionally, you can visit our blog for more information.