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Why some OEM car parts look different
For many home mechanics, this can be a real nuisance. You take out your original part, do your research and make sure you get the “OEM” Original equipment replacement part from the parts store. However, when you open the box, it looks nothing like the original. You immediately think the parts store is pulling a fast one on you.
The truth is, OEM car parts over time improve in design. OEM number changes commonly occur in car steering racks, ac compressors and fuel pumps. This is especially true if your car is at least 5-10 years old. I found such an issue with a client who thought he had purchased the wrong fuel pump. The one in particular was a Delphi fuel pump. Manufacturers often make adjustments to assure higher efficiency and better overall operation.
I have included pictures of the Original Fuel Pump and the Improved design. In this particular case, the original fuel pump had the fuel strainer on the outside of the physical pump whereas in the new design the fuel pump has the strainer built inside the body of the pump itself. This change, along with the new locking ring, improved RFI noise filtering and reduced amperage. Tons of changes, but the part number stays the same.
OEM number changes occur and it is a natural part of the car parts industry. Instead of immediately questioning the parts store, question the part itself and look for any OEM changes when in doubt.
So that’s why I thought the new auto part my mechanic installed looked anything like the one he took out of my car! Thanks for this informative post and the great photos. You don’t know how hard it is to have my car fixed when I don’t know the first thing about cars except drive it. That’s why I always trust my mechanic, but times are hard and I just wanted to make sure that he’s not running off with my hard-earned money.
I just wish when you get these the instructions explained the differences and why. Sometimes I wonder why they didn’t make them exact. Often there is a good reason.
The problem is the manufacturers merge 10 numbers into 1 to make it easier and cheaper. Customers don’t realize that by having a product that looks a little different its actually cheaper and better.
Normally the car dealer sells OEM parts but they can also be purchased at some auto repair shops and auto parts chain stores. OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer as the genuine part you would receive from your local dealer.
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