Are OEM Toyota Splash Shields Better Than Aftermarket?
Choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts can be a tough dilemma when it comes to maintaining your Toyota. It may be tempting to go with the aftermarket brand for something seemingly insignificant like a splash shield, especially if you can save a few dollars on cost. After all, it's "out of sight, out of mind" and not a critical component like a power steering pump or ignition coil.
However, there are some definite advantages to sticking with OEM, even with splash shields. This blog post will discuss those advantages and why OEM splash shields are always a better option.
OEM Splash Shields Are Engineered For Your Toyota Vehicle
Even though you will rarely see them, the fit and finish of splash shields are important for their performance. OEM Toyota splash shields are specifically designed to fit your vehicle. This means they meet Toyota's OEM specifications and will be easier to install than a generic aftermarket part.
An aftermarket splash shield may be designed to fit multiple vehicles and, as a result, may not be the same size or shape as the original part. That means the aftermarket part will not cover the area it's supposed to, which could expose your Toyota's drivetrain and other components to damage caused by dirt and debris (learn more about the impact of splash guard damage here.)
OEM Splash Shields Are Better Quality
Opting for OEM splash shields means you are choosing components made from high-quality materials that have undergone rigorous testing to meet Toyota's standards. As a result, they will perform better, last longer, and protect your vehicle for years to come.
Aftermarket splash shields are usually not subjected to the same quality control standards as Toyota OEM parts. This is because there are no quality control standards in the aftermarket industry. When choosing an aftermarket splash shield, you run the risk of buying a part that is not as well made and won't perform as well.
OEM Splash Shields Come With A Toyota Manufacturer's Warranty
Because the quality of aftermarket splash shields varies greatly, they may or may not come with a warranty. Yet even if they do, it probably won't measure up to the Toyota OEM warranty, which covers them for 12 months and unlimited mileage.
However, the Toyota OEM warranty doesn't just cover the part. It also makes it easy to return the splash shield if there's a problem. If you ever have issues with a splash guard during the warranty period, just return it to your Toyota parts center. If you have an issue with an aftermarket part, it may be much harder to return or exchange it.
OEM Toyota Parts Save Money In The Long Run
Although aftermarket splash shields may be cheaper, they are often poorly made, ultimately costing more money in the long run. It's possible they could wear out faster or be more susceptible to damage. If so, you may end up replacing them more frequently than if you bought an OEM Toyota splash shield.
Additionally, if an aftermarket splash shield fails to perform as well as an OEM Toyota splash shield, it could cost you more in repairs. If the drivetrain or other critical component gets dirty or damaged because of a poor-quality aftermarket part, the cost of repairs could add up fast.
Genuine OEM Splash Guards From Toyota Parts Center
If you need parts like splash shields for your Toyota car, truck, or SUV, your best bet is to replace them with genuine OEM Toyota parts. At the Olathe Toyota Parts Center, we carry OEM parts at wholesale prices, backed by the standard Toyota 12-month, unlimited-mile warranty.
We also have several free resources that can help you understand common Toyota problems and a Toyota VIN decoder that provides information about your vehicle. Order your OEM Toyota splash guard today.