What is typically considered in determining the original equipment of a vehicle?

The determination of original equipment for a vehicle focuses on OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. These parts are manufactured by the original vehicle manufacturer or under their specifications, ensuring that they meet the same quality and performance standards as the parts that were installed in the vehicle when it left the factory. Using OEM parts helps maintain the integrity and performance of the vehicle, making them the gold standard for repairs and replacements when assessing the original equipment.

In contrast, reconditioned parts, pre-owned parts, and generic parts do not have the same assurance of quality or compatibility with the original vehicle specifications. Reconditioned parts may have been repaired but might not meet the original manufacturer's standards; pre-owned parts could have unknown wear and tear; and generic parts typically do not adhere to specific manufacturer requirements, which could lead to a decrease in vehicle performance and reliability. Therefore, OEM parts are the definitive choice when assessing what qualifies as the original equipment of a vehicle.