OEM vs OES vs Aftermarket – Which Parts Are Best?

Spoiler: None of them. It depends. Here’s how we do it at ICD Tuning.

A focused automotive technician at ICD Tuning compares OEM, OES, and aftermarket parts at a workbench, evaluating their pros and cons with labeled components and tools in a modern workshop.

When it comes to replacing car parts, most people fall into one of these camps:

• “OEM or nothing!”

• “OES is the same bro, just cheaper!”

• “Aftermarket is the future. OEM is a scam.”

  
  

But here’s the truth: no one type of part is perfect all the time. And at ICD Tuning, we don’t do one-size-fits-all solutions, we do what works best for your car, your goals, and your budget.

What’s What?

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer):Comes from the brand that made your car. Expensive. Reliable. But not perfect.

• OES (Original Equipment Supplier):Comes from the same factory that makes OEM parts, but without the car brand logo. Often cheaper. Still good quality.

• Aftermarket:Parts made by third parties. Quality varies – some are junk, some are better than OEM, especially if you're looking for performance or fixing a known issue.

The Truth: Use the Right Part for the Right Job

Real Talk: Not All OEM Is Great

I’m an OEM guy myself, I love quality, consistency, and OE fitment.But let’s not act like OEM is flawless.

• If your new car rides like a camel, no amount of OEM parts will fix it.

• If your brakes fade every time you push hard, OEM rotors and pads will do it again.

• If OEM parts keep failing, maybe it’s time to look beyond the badge.

At ICD Tuning, We Do It Differently

We don’t blindly throw parts at problems.We consult with the customer, understand their driving habits, and diagnose the real issue. Then we pick the right combination of parts, sometimes OEM, sometimes OES, and sometimes carefully chosen aftermarket.

Our goal?To solve the problem permanently, not just replace parts for the sake of it.

• You want ride comfort? We’ll show you what works.

• You want performance? We’ll balance it with reliability.

• You want long-term peace of mind? We’ll avoid parts that fail repeatedly, even if they’re OEM.

Final Takeaway:

Don’t fall for parts politics.Choose parts based on:

• Your driving style

• The problem you’re solving

• The budget you’re working with

  
  

Sometimes OEM is the best. Sometimes OES is smarter. And sometimes, only aftermarket can solve a particular problem on your car.

Be informed. Be selective. That’s how you build a car that works better than how it came from the factory.