Aftermarket vehicle parts are currently gaining ground in the US automotive market. Auto enthusiasts usually resort to aftermarket parts when they want to upgrade their cars through affordable means. Automobile dealers offer limited options for their buyers. Wheels, engines, transmission components and other performance parts are certain to be in stock, including parts for lighting and interior.
Although upgrades are offered by OEMs, while these parts also come in stock, they are also limited, and usually expensive. Because of this, car owners troop to aftermarket shops when they modify their vehicles. "Aftermarket" is defined as the product made by a company that is other than the original manufacturer. Any part made by the original manufacturer is considered an 'original equipment manufacturer' part. This is more popularly known as an OEM part. Most performance parts are manufactured by aftermarket companies due to their ability to specialize in a particular field. For instance, the phenomenal siblings Mazda 3 and Mazda 6 can be modified by Mazda aftermarket parts-from air intake kits to car graphics kits and chrome rims-all these parts are readily offered by various performance parts shops.
A number of can sometimes be installed by a Mazda 3 or Mazda 6 owner who holds little to no knowledge of automobiles, while other parts require the assistance of a professional. Usually, using aftermarket parts on one's vehicle may void its warranty. It is important, therefore, for an owner to make sure his or her automobile's manufacturer warranty has already elapsed before deciding on employing aftermarket parts for replacements. Additionally, many aftermarket auto parts are specifically designed to fit certain car models. For example, most of the Mazda aftermarket parts available today mainly cater to the specifications of the highly popular Mazda 3 and Mazda 6. Thus, it is crucial for owners to make sure their car models match with the aftermarket parts they're after. In addition, local laws should also be considered. Many aftermarket parts are sold legally, but when installed in an automobile, they may violate certain laws and regulations or warranties. For instance, window tinting levels vary from state to state, along with emissions laws as well as taillight and headlight colors and brightness levels. Because of these, vehicle owners who want to tweak their cars should weigh a few things first before plunging into 'aftermarket' upgrades.
