What is the automotive aftermarket?
Vehicle aftermarket meaning: What does ‘automotive aftermarket’ mean? What is the ‘aftermarket?’
Aftermarket parts can be OEM replacement parts made by the OEM, or aftermarket including performance and accessories. Click To TweetThe automotive aftermarket definition starts with this: Vehicle parts and accessories may or may not be manufactured by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).
Automotive aftermarket parts are divided into three categories: OEM replacement parts made by the OEM; aftermarket parts including performance parts for modification; and aftermarket accessories.
OEM replacement parts are vehicle parts manufactured or re-manufactured (or “re-manned”) to replace OEM parts as they wear due to normal wear & tear of a vehicle, or for replacement due to damage. Aftermarket parts can be parts intended to be an alternative to OEM replacement parts, or can be an aftermarket part with different specifications altogether, and can be an add-on part or can be intended to replace an existing part. Accessories are parts made for the vehicle owner’s comfort, convenience or safety, or for customizing the vehicle, and are typically add-on parts. These can be after the original sale of the motor vehicle or they can be accessories installed by the automobile dealer.
What is direct to consumer (DTC)?
Direct-to-consumer (DTC) is sales channel where a manufacturer sells directly to the end user. DTC avoids any “middlemen” or additional distribution. DTC sales primarily rely on ecommerce or company-owned brick and mortar retail stores.
What are
automotive aftermarket products
for cars?Aftermarket parts for cars are simply parts that do not come from the car’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and were not installed by the OEM factory. These parts originate from the aftermarket.
Are aftermarket parts good?
Yes, aftermarket parts are good!
In many cases, automotive aftermarket parts are manufactured to provide additional performance or with features not available from the OEM part. Some aftermarket parts are stronger and designed to last longer than OEM parts. It is also important to know that aftermarket parts do not void the OEM warranty. Learn more about Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act aftermarket parts.
Automotive aftermarket definition by DIY vs. DIFM consumer markets
It’s important to know you can split up the automotive aftermarket in a few different ways. One way is DIY vs. DIFM.
Consumers who are skilled enough to repair or modify their own vehicles are in the “do-it-yourself” or “DIY” segment of the aftermarket. Some consumers prefer to have parts and accessories installed for them, and take their vehicle to a professional repair or installation facility in the “do-it-for me” or “DIFM” segment. The aftermarket helps keep vehicles on the road by providing consumers the choice of where they want their vehicles serviced, maintained, or customized.The DIY market is approximately 20%, and DIFM market 80%, of the total automotive aftermarket. Click To Tweet
According to the Channel Forecast Model from the Auto Care Association and AASA, the DIY market is approximately 20% of the total market by parts purchases, and the DIFM market is the remaining 80%.
Automotive aftermarket definition by light, medium and heavy duty vehicles
Here’s yet another way to define the automotive aftermarket: vehicle size.
Vehicles are classified into Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) categories from “none” (the lightest) up to GVW Class 8, which includes the largest semi tractors. Automobiles have a GVW class of “none” or “blank.” Light pickup trucks and SUVs can be in GVW Class 1, 2 or 3. These make up the classification of “light” vehicles.
Medium-duty trucks including larger commercial trucks, moving vans, box trucks, and delivery trucks are usually GVW Class 4, 5 or 6. Heavy-duty trucks include the largest school buses, semi tractors and crane trucks. Medium and heavy-duty trucks are often grouped together.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) Class GVWRDistribution channels in the aftermarket
The automotive aftermarket is characterized by a complex distribution system. Parts and accessories flow through the industry from the manufacturer to the consumer in many different ways.
For most of the industry’s history, from the early 1900s until the internet grew in the 1990s-2000s, distribution was mostly known as “two step distribution.” This means manufacturers sold to warehouse distributors (WDs), that in turn sold to retailers, that in turn sold to consumers.
Today with the huge growth in the internet, more parts manufacturers are selling direct to consumer (DTC), further altering the traditional channels of distribution.
Auto parts are the component elements and systems that make up a car. They range from the smallest fasteners to the largest body panels, from the engine to the seat springs. During the life of your vehicle, you will need to replace the tires, windshield wipers, brake pads, battery, spark plugs, and countless other auto parts.
When it’s time to replace an auto part, you will find them from one of two sources: the OEM, meaning original equipment manufacturer, or the aftermarket. OEM parts are components that the automaker, or a licensed provider, built for that particular model.
The term “aftermarket” means that the product you install in your vehicle is not part of the car’s original manufacturer specifications and is sourced from a third-party company. Some aftermarket auto parts, such as tires, lightbulbs, and filters, are billed as “universal,” so they are not made specific to any make or model. Many aftermarket parts exist as cost-saving competitors to OEM parts. Still, OEM auto parts are your best bet for replacement if you want to maintain the same performance from your car.
Beyond replacing stock auto parts, some consumers enjoy working on and customizing their vehicle’s performance. Many aftermarket companies specialize in producing performance parts. Examples of these aftermarket parts include wheels, tuning chips, and exhaust systems.
Using non-spec aftermarket auto parts on your vehicle could void its original warranty if the car remains under its protection. Carefully review the manufacturer’s warranty to determine if this is the case before making any modifications with aftermarket parts.
Furthermore, it is crucial to verify that any auto parts, OEM or aftermarket, you install on your vehicle fit its year, make, and model.
Lastly, ensure you do not violate local laws or regulations when installing aftermarket auto parts. For example, emissions laws vary from state to state. Never assume an aftermarket auto part is legal to install on your vehicle where you live.