According to IHS Automotive, the average age of light vehicles on the road in the United States is a little over 11 years. This trend has been in the making for several years, and it is expected to plateau and remain steady over the next few years. This is being attributed to the slow economy and the better quality of cars being manufactured.
If you’ve been driving for a while, you probably have noticed that cars do not need oil changes as often as they did in the past. You still need to take your car to get regular check-ups to maintain its endurance. Unfortunately, sometimes component parts of your car do stop working and will need to be replaced.
If you’re one of the Americans who are holding onto their cars longer, you may find it more difficult to get parts from the dealer. Aftermarket parts are a viable option to help keep your car running longer and maintain its reliability.
What are Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts are simply parts not made by the original car manufacturer. Many independent repair shops order these parts because they are typically less expensive than originally manufactured parts. When chosen carefully, the quality is as good as, and sometimes better than dealer parts.
Buying Aftermarket Parts
Whether you are trying to be environmentally friendly or economical in maintaining your car longer, when you do need repairs that aren’t covered by a warranty, you should check into aftermarket parts. Deal with a reputable company that handles the sale of many different manufacturers to get the part that meets your needs. Don’t just get the cheapest part. If you are unsure, check the reviews of the brand that is being suggested. Keep your car running longer and save money when you buy aftermarket parts to fix your car.