Last Updated on February 11, 2025 by Alan Weir
When it comes to securing your vehicle, the term "locks" becomes intimately tied into our daily dealings with car ownership. If you’ve ever found yourself needing to replace a lock, perhaps after a sudden fault or even after a theft, the terms OEM and aftermarket will likely crop up. As an expert car locksmith, I can assure you that knowing the difference between these two options is crucial to making the best decision for your vehicle’s security.
Let’s break this down together. When you open your car door, you (hopefully) expect it to unlock, giving you easy access to the driver’s seat. But what happens when that lock fails? Or what if you’ve misplaced your keys and need to replace a lock? Your first order of business is understanding what type of lock you want to use for the replacement. This is where OEM and aftermarket locks come into play.
What’s an OEM Lock?
OEM stands for "Original Equipment Manufacturer." In simple terms, if you decide to go for an OEM lock, you’re opting for the exact component your vehicle came with off the production line. These locks are produced by the same manufacturer responsible for your car. When you hear the words “genuine parts” or “factory parts,” they’re usually referring to OEM products.
Imagine your car is a finely tuned piece of machinery, where every part is tailored to specific specs. In this scenario, OEM locks are designed to fit perfectly into that well-oiled machine. They come directly from the manufacturer, ensuring they meet the same quality standards as the parts originally installed in your vehicle. So, if you’re looking to maintain your car’s integrity and original structure, OEM locks are the way to go.
What’s an Aftermarket Lock?
Now, let’s turn our attention to aftermarket locks. These are produced by third-party companies and are not affiliated with the original car manufacturer. The appeal of aftermarket locks is their variety and often lower prices. Think of them as the independent artists of the automotive parts world; they have more flexibility in design and materials, which might sound great but raises a few eyebrows in terms of quality.
Aftermarket options can vary widely in quality. Some manufacturers produce locks that are on par with, or even exceed, OEM quality. Others, however, might employ cheaper materials or less stringent quality control. As with all things in life, you often get what you pay for. If you’re considering an aftermarket lock, it’s important to do your homework. Seek out brands with a reputation for quality and reliability, akin to finding that local craftsman whose work you can trust.
Installation Considerations
Now, let’s talk about the installation. While both OEM and aftermarket locks can be installed relatively easily, the process might differ slightly based on the type of lock. I can tell you from experience that OEM locks typically come with a straightforward installation process, as they are exact replicas of the original components. That means no guesswork. Everything from the fitting to the wiring should align seamlessly with your vehicle’s existing setup.
On the other hand, aftermarket locks might require a bit more finesse during installation. Depending on the specific product, you could find yourself needing to modify the existing mechanism slightly. This isn’t inherently bad, but it does require a competent locksmith or mechanic who understands what they’re doing. The last thing you want is to complicate matters with a lock that doesn’t fit snugly into its designated spot, leading to issues down the line.
Cost Implications
Let’s not forget about cost. Generally speaking, OEM locks are more expensive than their aftermarket counterparts. This is partly due to the brand reputation and proven reliability of OEM parts. You’re not only paying for the product, you’re also paying for the quality assurance that comes with it. When you buy an OEM lock, you can trust that it’s been manufactured according to strict protocols and standards.
On the flip side, aftermarket locks provide a more budget-friendly option. They can be considerably cheaper, making them appealing for those who may not have the cash flow to splurge on OEM parts. But here’s the catch: while the initial outlay might be less, you should weigh that against potential long-term costs. A lower-quality lock might fail sooner than an OEM lock, leading to further expenses down the line. It’s a bit of a balancing act between upfront cost and long-term investment.
Aesthetic Differences
Believe it or not, aesthetics can also play a role in deciding between OEM and aftermarket locks. If you’ve got a classic car, for example, you certainly wouldn’t want to ruin its vintage charm with an incompatible or overly modern lock. OEM parts will retain the classic integrity of your vehicle, sticking closely to the design and feel of what was there originally.
Aftermarket locks, however, can sometimes deliver a fresh twist or additional features not available in the original lock design. Some manufacturers get creative with various finishes, shapes, and even functionalities that might appeal to different tastes. If you’re looking for something that makes your vehicle stand out, you might find that aftermarket options provide more flair. But always keep in mind that when it comes to replacing vital components like locks, functionality should be your primary concern.
Security Features
Now, let us delve deeper into security implications. The primary job of any lock is, after all, to provide security. While OEM locks are engineered to provide optimal security as per the manufacturer’s guidelines, aftermarket locks can sometimes be a double-edged sword. Some aftermarket brands focus heavily on advanced security features, providing locks that are more resistant to picking and tampering than their OEM counterparts. This could be a compelling reason to consider an aftermarket lock.
However, not all aftermarket locks are created equally. You may find some that compromise on security by cutting corners in manufacturing. If you do opt for an aftermarket lock, prioritise brands with solid reviews for security and durability. Speaking as a locksmith, I can tell you that investing in a high-quality lock is an investment in your car’s overall security.
Final Notes on Reliability and Trust
Choosing between OEM and aftermarket locks requires careful consideration of your vehicle’s needs, your budget, and your long-term security goals. As a locksmith, I often advise my clients to think critically about what they want from their locks. Maybe maintaining the originality of your car is your utmost priority, or perhaps you’re looking for something with enhanced features that can seamlessly integrate with your existing system.
Regardless of your choice, you should feel empowered knowing that you’re informed! There’s a lot of value in talking with your locksmith or mechanic about the specifics of your vehicle and the locks that would serve it best. With this knowledge, no matter which direction you choose, you can ensure that your vehicle remains secure, and your lock dilemma resolves smoothly.
Alan Weir – Master Locksmith with 30+ Years of Experience
Alan Weir is the founder of Weir Locksmiths and a Master Locksmith with over three decades of experience. Renowned for his expertise in home and automotive security, Alan has built a reputation for providing reliable and innovative locksmith solutions across the UK.
A certified member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), Alan specialises in residential, commercial and automotive locksmith services including car key replacement, transponder programming, and advanced security systems. His dedication to the field has earned him thousands of satisfied customers and glowing reviews on platforms like Checkatrade.
Now contributing to RevLock, Alan shares his expert knowledge to all of RevLocks visitors.
