OEM Vs Aftermarket Oil Filters
It’s time to put the smackdown on OEM vs. aftermarket oil filters. Do you go to the dealership? Do you shop online? Or do you walk into your local auto parts store in search of aftermarket oil filters? If so, which brand of oil filters are better? Why is there such a price difference? Should I really buy the OEM part? The tech team at our in-house auto parts store in Lake Wales is going to lay out all the facts for you so that you can purchase all the Chevy parts you need as if you were a lifetime mechanic.
So let’s buckle up and dive in for the truth about OEM vs. aftermarket oil filters.
The Truth About Aftermarket Oil Filters
Let’s not run from the truth. You’ll save a few bucks on an aftermarket oil filter — no doubt about it. But take a step back for a second. Businesses need to make some money in order to stay in business. So when an aftermarket oil filter is sold for less than the price of fast-food coffee, you’ve got to wonder what that filter costs to produce.
The real answer is next to nothing. Aftermarket oil filters are produced on the cheap because inferior materials are used. There’s almost no quality control, not to mention the final assembly coming from unskilled hands at a high-volume facility where one size is supposed to fit all.
The Truth About OEM Oil Filters
This isn’t just true for Chevy and other GM vehicles. This rule holds for all other OEMs. The highest level of quality and attention to detail comes with OEM parts. Manufacturers spend years developing their vehicles, and in order to ensure consumer satisfaction, all parts must uphold the highest level of fit, finish, and performance.
Sure, you’ll pay a little more for a premium product, but we’ll help you save as much as we can with our invaluable oil filter coupons. Now, here’s the other thing concerning OEM vs. aftermarket oil filters: your warranty.
Did you know that your original powertrain warranty demands proper service and maintenance? Failure to use OEM oil filters can void your engine’s warranty. Saving a few bucks at the quick lube has led some of our customers to the brink of a financial crisis. We’ve seen it all — incorrect oil weights and types. Loose, missing, or the wrong oil filter installed. Low oil. You name it.
When you sign off on the work order from the quick lube, what you don’t see should scare you. Usually, on the back of the work order, there’s a disclaimer saying that by signing the work order, you waive the shop of any potential liabilities if mechanical damage results from their service.
And guess who is on the hook for major engine repairs? Yup. You.
Oil filter quality does make a difference. Friction, heat, and particles are your engine’s enemy. Only an OEM filter is designed to lubricate according to your engine specifications. An OEM filter is also designed to protect your engine but also the company. Think about that for a second. Sure, they want you happy. But they also want to safeguard themselves from potential liabilities. And the best way to do that is with quality materials — every time.
Look at it another way. Do you think million-dollar race teams use the $2.99 oil filter? Nope. They don’t. Every part counts, and one of the best ways they can ensure a finish — and a win — is with parts they can rely on.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Oil Filters FAQs
If you want, we’d be happy to share a 60-page study on the manufacturing practices and testing of premium OEM oil filters. We realize that you may, umm, have better things to do, so we’ve put together this handy list of answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that we get down here at our oil change service center and parts department.
Are OEM filters better than aftermarket?
You bet your new car warranty and the long life of your engine! An OEM filter is designed to handle the exact flow rates, pressures, temperatures, and filtration requirements demanded by your performance engine. Going with anything less than OEM quality can lead to costly repairs.
Does brand matter for the oil filter?
You bet it does. Nothing replaces the performance and protection of a Genuine part or OEM filter. Shopping for cheaper Chevy aftermarket parts might seem like a good idea at the moment, but what happens when you’re on your way to a doctor’s appointment, stopped at a traffic light, and plumes of smoke begin to pour out of your engine compartment? Saving $5 on an aftermarket oil filter just cost you your engine. The mounting threads melted because they were not made from steel. And guess who needs to spend $5,000 on a new engine?
Are OEM filters better?
In every way. Did you know the National Sanitation Foundation will typically endorse only an OEM filter? This means that your OEM filter is not just designed to protect your car. It’s also designed to protect the environment. Give one of our service advisors a call. They’d love to show you all the ways our premium OEM filters are the true champion of your Chevy vehicle.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Oil Filters Summary
If you live in Lake Wales and drive a GM vehicle, we’d love for you to come and service with us. We always love getting new customers. But more importantly, we love creating a lasting relationship with our customers. When we say something, we mean it. And we’re ready to prove to you that our word, backed by OEM parts and service, will make all the difference. Schedule your appointment today!