Are OEM Serpentine Belts Better Than Aftermarket?
If your serpentine belt is due for replacement, you may be wondering whether it’s best to go OEM or aftermarket. You may have heard that aftermarket belts are the same and cost less. But, in fact, this is rarely the case.
In this guide, we’ll explain the differences between OEM and aftermarket serpentine belts. We’ll also discuss what you need to look for in a quality replacement belt, and why an OEM part is always the better option.
Why Is A Good Quality Serpentine Belt Important?
Your car’s serpentine belt is a toothed rubber belt that connects various engine components. It is driven by the crankshaft. This powers the alternator, air conditioner, and several other auxiliary devices.
It needs to be made from tough and long-lasting materials, and must last for many miles under extreme conditions. The serpentine belt’s dimensions need to be exactly as the manufacturer specified. Otherwise, it can damage the auxiliary devices, pulleys, and tensioners.
OEM Vs. Aftermarket Serpentine Belts
OEM serpentine belts are manufactured to be the same as the original item that was fitted to your car. They have to meet stringent standards and are guaranteed to work perfectly. OEM serpentine belts are:
- Built to exact manufacturer standards.
- Guaranteed to fit and work exactly as your original part.
- Tend to last longer than aftermarket parts and won’t damage engine components.
Aftermarket serpentine belts are often generic. They may fit your vehicle. But there can be differences in material quality and dimensions. They also do not need to adhere to the manufacturer’s stringent standards. Aftermarket serpentine belts:
- Are sometimes cheaper than OEM parts up front.
- Do not come with the same guarantee as OEM parts.
- Often vary in size and quality and may cause excess wear on engine components.
- May not last as long, therefore costing you more overall.
Save Now, Pay Later
You may still think that it’s worth the risk to go aftermarket. After all, aren’t aftermarket serpentine belts always cheaper? While you may find a compatible part for a low price, it will be cheaper for a reason.
And that reason is quality. The cheaper materials and generic size of an aftermarket belt aren’t always something you notice when you buy it. Too tight belts can put excess strain on the pulleys and bearings. A belt that is too loose can slip and damage the auxiliary devices. It will start to fray and crack if it’s made of inferior materials.
The time and cost to replace an inferior aftermarket serpentine belt more often can quickly eradicate any savings you may have made. And that’s if you don’t need to repair any damaged engine components.
And don’t forget. Buying a genuine OEM part from Suburban Auto Parts online can often save you hundreds of dollars. Making aftermarket parts even less desirable.
Order Your OEM Serpentine Belt Today
Suburban Auto Parts has been delivering high-quality OEM parts since 1948. We stock parts for 19 different vehicle makes and have 54 locations around the US. That means great stock availability and fast shipping. Wherever you are.
Call us at 888-287-6125 or use our free parts finder service when you search by your VIN right from our home page and get your OEM serpentine belt shipped today.