Individual automakers pride themselves on wanting to be different and original. This is of course reflected in the design, dealership layout, and service and care. The use of genuine parts is intended to ensure that the performance, durability, safety, and reliability of the car are not compromised. Genuine parts have passed safety tests and are guaranteed the same quality level as a new car throughout the life of the vehicle.

This quality usually comes at a very high price from the car companies, and increasing economic pressure has led to the supply of non-genuine parts that are functionally identical to genuine parts. Needless to say, there is a significant difference in quality and price.

The majority of mechanical parts in particular are from a single supplier, with only individual brands producing original accessories. Examples are axle arms, injection pumps, belt pulleys, ignition coils, etc.

Previously, authorized repairers could only offer and sell original parts with varying but relatively high margins. Automobile companies set up sales schedules because it was an important part of their revenue. Aftermarket parts were only available at small garages and maintenance shops, where mechanics were often unfamiliar with the latest car models and did not have the necessary diagnostic skills.

Ten years ago, an EU block exemption aimed at protecting consumers from companies with a monopoly position came into force. Importers must provide service data to the maintenance shops that requested it. This gave maintenance shops the opportunity to perform warranty maintenance on new vehicles, and branded maintenance shops could no longer impose parts from a single manufacturer on their customers. Thus, they are forced to find ways to retain existing customers and service older vehicles.

Some brands offer branded auto parts for older cars at a lower price than unbranded parts, at least to ensure lower margins.