What Is an OEM in Manufacturing & Why It Matters
What Is an OEM in Manufacturing & Why It Matters
What is OEM?
OEM: Original Equipment Manufacturer. In manufacturing, an OEM has the ability to produce parts or subsystems which are used in another company’s product. A company that manufactures vehicle engines, displays or batteries for a car from a different manufacturer’s brand is itself an OEM, for example.
Key points:
- OEM parts are genuine original replacement parts which are the same ones that first came with your vehicle.
- OEM parts are factored when the vehicle is sold new.
- The value in OEM partnerships is that it allows final product brands to outsource a dedicated manufacturing, but maintain control over the production and branding.
OEM vs non-OEM
Non-OEM (frequently referred to as aftermarket) parts are made by companies not the original manufacturer. These components can save you money and in some cases offer better features, but quality and compatibility differ:
Non-OEM Pros: Less expensive, greater selection, possible feature enhancements.
Non-OEM risks: Product not fitting, potentially poorer quality, potential warranty/certification implications.
Choose original equipment manufacturer or original equipment manufacturer-certified suppliers for safety,"Patrick said. It may be more economical for low risk components from a trusted aftermarket source.
Common OEM terminology
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): The maker of a component as it was originally made. (Also abbreviated OE.)
Aftermarket/Non-OEM: Any vendor other than OEM.gov: 3rd party parts.MockMvcamping market place _ Policy Everything NOT MORE PROBLEM GENUINE OE.
OEM+: Factory-style upgrades or trim used to upgrade product, but still keeping a factory appearance. See next section. (oem plus meaning)
OEM certified: Original Equipment Manufacturer parts or services that have been authorized or certified by the OEM. This frequently preserves warranties and helps satisfy regulations. (oem certified meaning)
OEM meanings and examples
The following targeted terms are broken down in this section.
OEM glass meaning
OEM Glass: Technically, this refers to ‘Original Equipment Manufacturer’ glass, which is a type of auto or equipment window that is built to identical factory specifications and manufacturer stamp. The OEM glass is precision to fit and is often referred to by the meter in original sensor calibrations (e.g. Rain sensors), and optical clarity. OEM glass is ideal for safety glazing.
OEM+ meaning
OEM+ (OEM plus) is a philosophy of customizing a product using authentic OEM parts, often those from higher trim levels or similar lines within the same model and sometimes factory options. The result is either better looks, performance or both at a highly competitive price while maintaining your stock appearance and compatibility.
OEM certified meaning
OEM certified means a part, technician or service center meets the manufacturer’s original specification and standards. Frequently use of OEM-certified parts or repair centers may preserve warranties and guarantee that work is performed to OEM standards.
OEM mags meaning
OEM mags refers to stock wheels (alloy wheels) that are attached to the car at the factory. Features This is the 10 round magazine for the Tactical 22.22LR Includes a nylon pouch with gear clip.
OEM battery meaning
A vs oem battery is a battery made to the original manufacturers standards set for that device or vehicle's electrical, mechanical and safety requirements. Brand name vs Unbranded: While unbranded batteries are fine, they're often not as satisfying as OEM brands.
OEM insights
Compatibility & fit: OEM parts will integrate well with your vehicle, so there is no risk on fitment.
Warranty & compliance: OEM-certified parts or services maintain warranty and meet regulatory rules.
Safety & liability: For safety critical systems (brakes, glass, batteries), using OEM parts can also reduce safety and legal risk.
Cost of ownership: More expensive at point-of-purchase for OEM parts, but downtime and replacement could be less frequent.
When to choose OEM vs non-OEM
- Refer to this handy checklist when making the decision:
- Is the part in question safety-related (glass, battery, brake)? → Prefer OEM.
- Is the retention of warranty or regulation important? → Get OEM or OEM-approved service.
- Is the cost single issue and component low-risk? → Consider reputable non-OEM suppliers.
Practical procurement tips
Please double-check the OEM part number and cross reference any relevant parts before purchase.
- “Ask for test reports or certifications if you are using non-OEM material,” says Walford.
- Track OEM-authorized repairs to safeguard warranty claims.
- Get friendly with solid sources (both OEM and reliable aftermarket companies).
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