When it comes to car maintenance, there isn’t a lot of attention being put on the exterior. However, if you consider the appeal of a vehicle, it’s all that matters, together with the wheels. Just like the engine, your car’s body needs some TLC.
That doesn’t only mean you need to customise it as it isn’t always about how your vehicle looks, but also how solid it is when it comes to withstanding the test of time. Proper and regular servicing of the exterior involves mainly replacing parts that have an impact on both your car’s appearance and robustness.
OEM vs OEM+
Differences
A surefire way to ensure that you get both good looks and a trustworthy shell is by going with either OEM or OEM+ replacement auto body parts. The difference between the two is the plus sign, which makes the latter slightly more distinguishable than the former. OEM+ car body parts are made with the same manufacturer specs as OEM parts in mind, with a little bit of an improvement, be it with the material, protective layer or finish of said component.
Purpose
While some would argue that both OEM and OEM+ car parts have the same exact use and thus purpose, there is a slight difference here as well. For instance, an OEM car part is made to function properly and provide optimal conditions and performance, as this is what most car manufacturers do to make their vehicles more appealing to a wider demographic.
OEM+ components, on the other hand, are considered to be the safe auto performance parts more than anything, albeit the level of performance improvement they offer is nothing drastic. They improve on the platform that is your stock vehicle, but not to make it different. They do so to make it more comfortable, convenient, or even fitting for you as the owner. OEM+ components offer a slight tweak that makes the vehicle a touch more personal, be it in the way it drives, feels or looks.
What Matters in a Car Body Part
Finish
Apart from the colour, an exterior car part should also have a solid finish, and by solid, I mean one that not only fits the rest of the car but also lasts as long. A thick enough clear coat or protective UV layer goes a long way in keeping your vehicle looking like it rolled off the factory floor last week.
Warranty
If you’re after parts that are not only made by the official manufacturer but have the longest warranty period, you can’t go wrong with OEM or OEM+ car body parts. The longer the warranty, the better, as you have peace of mind for years to come.
Build Quality
Another factor to keep in mind when looking into getting, especially OEM+ replacement auto body parts, is their build quality. Make sure to take a look at the paint job, seam, weld and the fit and finish of the product before you purchase it.
Manufacturer
Make sure that what you’re getting is actually manufactured by the manufacturer of your vehicle or a brand that works together with the car manufacturer. Different cars from different generations have different manufacturers produce different components. Make sure to check which ones are suitable as OEM replacements for your car.
The Advantages of On-Time Replacements
Time
Talking about replacing OEM autobody parts, it’s important to do it on time or even beforehand. This way, you save a lot of time that you would otherwise spend fixing or replacing a part at a later date, just because of its condition. The same time you’ll spend replacing a part that’s in a poor state can be spent fixing other issues on your vehicle or installing upgrades.
Safety
With a shell that’s in better condition, you not only make your vehicle look more aesthetically pleasing, but you also help keep it safe to drive. A rotten sill or a flailing arch can be extremely dangerous both on and off the road or jack.
Value
A vehicle in pristine condition means it’s well looked after and that it will stay on the road for much longer. This, in turn, raises its value, which can be a great way to get more out of it when or if the time comes to sell it.
Reliability
When your vehicle is maintained both inside and out, you can rest assured it will give you less or no trouble at all, especially when you need it most. Be it long-distance trips or going grocery shopping, you can rely on your daily driver or weekend cruiser to bring you to your destination, no matter what.
Longevity
Last but not least, a well-kept car with OEM autobody parts means one that will last much longer. A longer lifespan means plenty of joyous drives down a back road or to and from work, making your vehicle stay on the road for longer, thus allowing you to drive something unique in the future.