What Are OEM Parts?

OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer — an OEM part is made by, or specifically authorized by, the company that built your appliance, to that manufacturer's original specifications. It's the opposite of an aftermarket or generic part, which is made by a third party to fit a similar role but not necessarily to the same tolerances.

On premium sealed-system and control-board components especially, small differences in fit or spec can affect performance, noise, or how long a repair lasts. Uhauz uses OEM parts on every repair, which is also why the correct part for a Sub-Zero, Wolf, or Miele unit sometimes takes longer to source than a generic equivalent would.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are OEM parts really worth the extra cost over aftermarket?

For anything precision-fit — sealed-system components, control boards, brand-specific door seals — yes, the tighter tolerances tend to mean fewer repeat failures. On premium built-in appliances, Uhauz uses OEM parts across every repair rather than deciding case by case.

Does using aftermarket parts void my appliance's warranty?

It can, depending on the manufacturer and the part involved. If your appliance is still under manufacturer warranty, it's worth checking before authorizing a repair with non-OEM parts.

Do repair companies really use genuine manufacturer parts?

It varies by company — ask directly before authorizing a repair. Uhauz uses OEM parts on every job, with no aftermarket substitutes, which matters most on precision-fit components like sealed-system parts and control boards.