What does OE mean for you and your Euro?

When you drop your vehicle off at the shop for a repair, you probably here a phrases like genuine, aftermarket, OE, OES, or OEM. So, what do these words mean to you?

These acronyms are very important in the automotive world, especially more in the German automotive world.  They pertain to automotive parts and there are some small and large differences when it comes to quality, reliability, and safety.  So, let’s break them down:

If the part is genuine, this means the part is direct from the auto maker. These authentic parts are usually built by an auto parts supplier or manufacturer to the auto makers specification.  These genuine parts are usually the highest quality and the most expensive to purchase.  For example, Audi genuine spark plugs are made by Bosch or NGK depending on the application.

If the part is an aftermarket, this means it is made by a secondary auto parts supplier.  These replacement parts are usually remanufactured or are a copied part from the original.  In some cases, these parts are lower cost, but are lower in quality.  And they usually end up having additional hidden cost once the part fails prematurely.  For example, using aftermarket parts is a common way some shops undercut a competitive shop’s estimate in order to be the lowest price in town.  So, they may use an Autolite Spark Plug application for Audi instead of a genuine or authorized part.  While it can save money in the short-term, aftermarket parts can have major repercussions in the long term.

If the part is an Original Equipment (OE), Original Equipment Supplier (OES), or an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), this means the part is made by the original supplier or manufacturer for the auto maker. Most parts in your German auto are not made by the auto maker, but by an equipment supplier or manufacturer as per their request. For example, Porsche does not make brake components, they buy them from the brake manufacturer Brembo. BMW and Audi do not make transmissions, they buy transmissions from ZF Friedrichshafen.  And Audi does not make spark plugs, so they buy them from Bosch and NGK. OE parts have the same quality as the genuine parts but without the middle-man price.  OE parts are not the lowest price, but the best balance of price and quality.  By using OE parts, we not only save our customers money but also use the best parts on the market for their vehicle.  For example, we recommend Bosch OE or NGK OE spark plugs for an Audi or Brembo brake parts for a Porsche 911.  

Have questions about a replacement part? Contact our experienced team at JA Autowerks today by visiting www.jaautowerks.com or calling, 732-268-7381. 

- John Andryszewski, Owner/ASE Master Technician 

6 European Auto Safety Tips You Should Know

Did you know that American drivers spend an average of more than 17,600 minutes behind the wheel each year? That’s equivalent to seven 40-hour weeks at the office - you heard us right! 

Whether you are commuting to and from the office, driving the kids to soccer practice, or planning a fun family road-trip, your car safety should be of the utmost importance. 

Knowing the open road will be calling your name when the spring season arrives, our new Service Advisor, Jeff Cooper at JA Autowerks recommend the following six tips for all European car drivers to follow:

1. Check Fluid Levels - At least once a month, be sure to check all of your fluid levels with your car on level ground. You want to address your engine oil, coolant (anti-freeze), power steering fluid, brake fluid and windshield washer fluid. Using the proper OEM fluids for top offs are important because the wrong fluids can and do lead to expensive repairs down the road.  Whenever you are in doubt, feel free to reach out to us and we can make sure you that you know the right fluid to use.
2. Proper Tire Pressure: Check your tire pressure every month to keep you safely on the road during a variety of weather conditions. Use the inflation pressure recommended by your Euro vehicle’s manufacturer found on the inside of your door panel or inside your fuel door. 
3. Fresh Wiper Blades: A clear, unobstructed view of the road is the main factor in your driving decisions. Make sure your car’s wipers provide you with the cleanest windshield possible - and don’t forget the wiper fluid!
4. Technology Savvy: While all of the technological advancements have enhanced the way we travel in our cars, it is crucial to understand how your in-car user interface works. Take the time to read through your owner’s manual and get acclimated with your media system before you hit the road to prevent distractions. Need a little help? Our factory trained technicians can walk you through all the functions of your in-car interface at the shop - just give us a call to set an appointment!
5. Listen To Your Car: Do you hear an abnormal grinding or chatters? Is there a weird vibration? If so, your car is letting you know it is having some problems. Schedule a multi-point inspection and get those checked early to prevent a future breakdown.
6. Plan Ahead: Just like looking at the weather to know what to pack in your suitcase, you should always plan ahead before a trip. A simple safety inspection by your favorite mechanic will save you time, money and a lot of hassle down the road. 

Getting ready to put the pedal to the medal? Contact JA Autowerks for a complimentary multi-point inspection today. Call (732) 268-7381 or visit www.JAAutowerks.com to schedule an appointment and be ready for your next adventure on the road!