Genuine vs. Aftermarket Truck Mirrors: Which Should You Buy Online?
Broken truck mirrors are one of the usual maintenance tasks for truck owners. Given the convenience of online shopping nowadays, some drivers opt to order their replacement truck mirrors online, but the only problem with this is the struggle in choosing from the many options.
From genuine OEM (original equipment manufacturer) mirrors to aftermarket truck mirrors, the choices vary, which can be overwhelming. If you’re having a hard time choosing which one to buy, this article will enlighten you on the differences between genuine and aftermarket truck mirrors so you can choose which product works best for you.
Understanding the differences: comparing quality, fit, and functionality.
Before scouring the internet for the different kinds of truck mirrors online, it’s important to understand the difference between genuine and aftermarket truck mirrors. If you’re looking more into quality and have the budget for it, then it’s best to choose genuine OEM mirrors since these products are tailored to meet the exact specifications of your track.
On the other hand, if you have financial constraints, aftermarket truck mirrors would be a better choice for you. They’re still good, although there may be potential trade-offs in quality, but make sure to do extensive research and choose an established retailer or manufacturer. Checking online reviews from previous customers also helps to see if the mirror’s specifications answer your needs.
Quality. As stated above, genuine OEM mirrors are made by the same manufacturers that produced the original mirror as your truck. With that said, you can be sure of its quality, be able to withstand extreme conditions, and last for a while.
Fit. Finding the right truck mirror with the perfect fit is crucial. Between the two options, you may struggle a bit with aftermarket truck mirrors since there may be some discrepancies, so you might need to make certain adjustments before installing.
Functionality. The two materials also offer different functions; genuine OEM mirrors usually come with all the features of the original, and aftermarket truck mirrors offer certain similar features. Do take note that the latter may lack a few functions, and you should check if they’re compatible with your truck’s electrical system.
Budget considerations and availability.
Budget constraints are also a big influence when it comes to purchases. Genuine OEM mirrors belong to the costlier side, given their quality and features since they’re practically the same as the original. High-quality aside, truck owners who have less common truck models, or have older ones, may find it hard to find a genuine OEM mirror for them.
Then we have aftermarket truck mirrors, which are relatively easy to find and are widely available. A quick search online will lead you to a variety of selections from different manufacturers. With that said, truck mirror replacement is easier if you’re looking for aftermarket truck mirrors.
How do I choose the right choice for my truck mirror?
These two products come with their own advantages and disadvantages, but at the end of the day, it all boils down to your preferences and needs. If you’re looking to replace your original truck mirror with the same quality, functions, and everything else with money to spare, then go for genuine OEM mirrors.
However, if you’re more concerned about replacing your truck mirror ASAP and are okay with subpar quality, then your best choice is aftermarket truck mirrors.
