Are OEM Mazda Alternators Better Than Aftermarket?
When you're shopping for a replacement alternator, it's important to get quality part that will serve your car well for a long time. It's not a good idea to visit an auto parts store and grab the first alternator you see. There are many important factors you should consider before buying an alternator.
When you take all these factors into consideration, you'll find that an OEM alternator is a smarter investment than an aftermarket unit. Let's take a look at the reasons why:
1. OEM Alternators Are Built To Your Car's Specs
It can be pretty risky to replace a broken alternator with an aftermarket part. If you're not careful, you could install the wrong alternator and cause more problems for your car. For example, an aftermarket alternator could overcharge your battery. This will cause issues with your car's electrical components.
An OEM Mazda alternator is designed for your car's electrical system. It supplies the correct amount of voltage to the battery to avoid undercharging or overcharging it. When it comes to installing an important electrical component in your car, always get one that's built to your car's specifications.
Aftermarket manufacturers don't always build their alternators to OE specs. So to be safe, always get a genuine OEM alternator.
2. OEM Alternators Usually Last Longer Than Aftermarket Alternators
Aftermarket alternators can malfunction after only a few months. This is because they're mass produced in factories with minimal quality control. OEM alternators are made with high quality parts and have undergone rigorous testing. Because of this, they usually last much longer than aftermarket alternators.
There are many situations where aftermarket alternators fail within 6 months of use. This happens because the voltage regulator malfunctions and either:
- Can't provide your battery with enough power
- Provides too much power
OEM alternators will usually run for another 100k or 150k miles without breaking down or causing issues. Mazda makes sure that they're built to last, so you won't have to worry about getting a replacement anytime soon.
3. Mazda Offers A Warranty On Its OEM Alternators
Image Credit: DIY Pinto
A warranty is assurance that the company believes in the quality of their product and will stand by it. Mazda, as well as other automakers, offers a full warranty on most OEM replacement parts, including alternators.
Most (if not all) aftermarket manufacturers don't offer a warranty on their products. This means that you won't be able to get your money back or have them repair the product if something goes wrong with it.
Besides the peace of mind, getting an OEM part will also help you cut costs in the long run. It's because they're covered by a warranty and don't need to be replaced very often.
You can save even more money by ordering an OEM replacement alternator from REALMazdaParts.com. We offer lower prices for OEM parts than the ones you'd see at a Mazda dealership. Check out our catalog of OEM replacement alternators and see if we have one for your Mazda. Feel free to contact us if you need help finding the right alternator for your car!