OEM vs. Aftermarket Subaru Parts: What Corinth Drivers Should Know

March 15th, 2024 by

When a part on your Subaru needs to be replaced, you may have a choice between a genuine Subaru OEM part and an aftermarket alternative. While both can be designed to replace a worn or damaged component, they aren’t necessarily made to the same specifications or intended for the same vehicle.

For Subaru drivers in Corinth, Denton, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Lake Dallas and surrounding North Texas communities, understanding the difference can help you make a more informed decision about your vehicle.

At Huffines Subaru Corinth, our Subaru Parts Center can help you find genuine Subaru parts for your vehicle, whether you’re planning a DIY repair or want our service team to handle the installation.

What Are OEM Subaru Parts?

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. Genuine Subaru OEM parts are designed for Subaru vehicles and built to the specifications intended for your particular model.

That matters because a replacement part isn’t simply about whether it physically fits. The right component also needs to work properly with the other systems in your vehicle.

Genuine Subaru parts are available for everything from routine maintenance items to larger repair components and accessories. At Huffines Subaru Corinth, our parts team can help identify the correct part for your Subaru.

What Are Aftermarket Parts?

Aftermarket parts are manufactured by companies other than Subaru. These parts can be made to fit a wide range of vehicles and are available from independent parts retailers, online sellers and other automotive businesses.

Aftermarket parts aren’t automatically bad. Quality can vary considerably between manufacturers, however, so it’s important to consider the specific part, manufacturer, warranty and compatibility before purchasing one.

For a Subaru owner, the cheapest option isn’t necessarily the best option for every repair.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Subaru Parts: What’s the Difference?

The biggest difference is how the parts are designed and sourced.

Genuine Subaru OEM parts:

  • Are designed specifically for Subaru vehicles
  • Are made to Subaru specifications
  • Are intended to provide the fit and compatibility expected for your vehicle
  • Can be ordered through a Subaru dealership’s Parts Center
  • Can be professionally installed by Subaru-trained technicians

Aftermarket parts:

  • Are produced by independent manufacturers
  • May be designed for multiple makes and models
  • Can vary in materials, construction and quality
  • May offer a lower purchase price
  • Require more research to confirm compatibility and quality

The right choice can depend on the part, your Subaru, your budget and whether you’re installing it yourself or having a professional complete the repair.

When Does It Make Sense to Choose Genuine Subaru Parts?

There isn’t one answer for every replacement part, but OEM parts can be especially useful when you want a component specifically designed for your Subaru.

For example, if you’re replacing a part that needs to work closely with other vehicle systems, getting the correct component for your specific Subaru can help simplify the repair.

Genuine parts can also make sense when you want a replacement component sourced through a Subaru dealership and installed by technicians who work with Subaru vehicles.

What Subaru Parts Can I Buy in Corinth?

Huffines Subaru Corinth’s Parts Center offers a range of genuine Subaru parts and accessories. Common replacement and maintenance items include:

  • Oil and air filters
  • Brake pads and rotors
  • Spark plugs
  • Batteries
  • Wiper blades
  • Suspension components
  • Exhaust components
  • Fluids and other maintenance items
  • Genuine Subaru accessories
  • Floor mats, cargo trays and roof-rack accessories

If you’re not sure which part your Subaru needs, you don’t have to guess. The Parts Center can help you identify the appropriate component for your vehicle. You can also order genuine Subaru parts online by providing your vehicle information and details about the part you need.

Do OEM Parts Have to Be Installed at a Dealership?

No. If you’re comfortable working on your own Subaru, you can purchase a genuine part and install it yourself when the repair is appropriate for a DIY project.

For more involved repairs, professional installation can be a better option. The Huffines Subaru Corinth Service Center has Subaru-focused technicians who can install genuine Subaru parts as part of your service visit.

This can be particularly helpful when a repair requires specialized equipment, diagnostics or knowledge of Subaru systems.

What If I Don’t Know Which Subaru Part I Need?

That’s one of the advantages of working with a dealership Parts Center rather than trying to identify a component on your own.

Give the parts team information about your Subaru, including the model and VIN when available. The team can help determine which component is appropriate for your vehicle.

This is especially important when different versions of a part may be used depending on the model, trim or vehicle configuration.

Can I Order Subaru Parts Online?

Yes. Huffines Subaru Corinth provides an online Subaru parts request form for customers who want to request genuine Subaru parts. The form lets you provide your vehicle’s year, make, model, trim and other information, along with the part you’re looking for. You can also indicate whether you want installation with the part.

If you’d rather speak with someone directly, you can contact the Parts Center or visit Huffines Subaru Corinth at 6930 I-35E in Corinth, TX.

The Parts Center serves Subaru owners throughout Corinth and surrounding North Texas communities.

Need Your Subaru Part Installed?

If you don’t want to tackle the repair yourself, Huffines Subaru Corinth’s Service Center can handle installation and other Subaru maintenance and repairs.

The service center handles routine maintenance and repairs for Subaru models including the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Ascent, WRX, Impreza and Solterra. Services include oil and filter changes, tire rotations, brake repairs, battery replacement, inspections and other maintenance needs.

For select routine maintenance, the dealership also offers Subaru Express Service.

What About Genuine Subaru Accessories?

Not every part purchase involves replacing something that has failed. You may also be looking for accessories to add convenience, cargo capacity or utility to your Subaru.

Genuine Subaru Accessories are designed specifically for individual Subaru models and are tested for fit, durability and performance. If you’re considering accessories such as roof racks, cargo equipment or other model-specific additions, explore the Genuine Subaru Accessories available through Huffines Subaru Corinth.

Can I Save Money on Subaru Parts and Service?

It’s worth checking the dealership’s current Subaru Parts & Service Specials before purchasing parts or scheduling service. Available offers change, but current specials can include savings on eligible parts, maintenance and repairs.

Find Genuine Subaru Parts in Corinth, TX

Whether you’re replacing a worn component, preparing for a DIY project or looking for a part to complete a repair, getting the right component for your Subaru matters.

Huffines Subaru Corinth’s Parts Center offers genuine Subaru parts and accessories and can help you find the right part for your vehicle. If you’d rather leave the installation to a professional, the Subaru Service Center can help with installation and other maintenance and repair needs.

Visit Huffines Subaru Corinth at 6930 I-35E in Corinth, TX, serving Subaru drivers throughout Corinth, Denton, Lewisville, Flower Mound, Lake Dallas and surrounding North Texas communities.

Posted in Parts