One of the most affordable ways to reduce costs for the next scheduled maintenance is to choose parts not from the official brand, which usually cost noticeably less.
Some drivers are convinced that such components are cheap fakes that quickly fail. However, this opinion, as a rule, does not correspond to reality.
A significant share of non-original components is produced using the same technology as branded ones, and often even at the same factories. Often the difference between "original" and "non-original" comes down only to the name on the box.
It has long been known that parts that the manufacturer supplies to the assembly lines of car plants, under the manufacturer's own brand, are also sent to the so-called "aftermarket" — stores that do not have official authorization.
The most sought-after non-original elements are "consumables" that are subject to replacement according to the regulations during scheduled maintenance. Among them are usually: filters, spark plugs, brake pads, timing belts, and shock absorbers.
When choosing such spare parts, it is worth focusing on well-known brands that cooperate with car manufacturers and have proven themselves in the market. For example, you can take companies that supply components for Volkswagen Group cars: Ferodo (brakes), SACHS (shock absorbers and clutch), NGK (spark plugs), Dayco (timing belts), Mann (filters), and others.
When buying non-original parts, do not forget about the risk of encountering fakes, which are also found on sale. To avoid getting a low-quality product, it is better to use the services of proven auto parts retail outlets with a reliable reputation, for example, the Leoparts store.
