Are OEM Tailgate Parts Better Than Aftermarket?
When you need to replace tailgate parts, you have a big decision to make. Before moving forward with the job, you need to choose between OEM and aftermarket replacement parts. It's the first step you'll need to take. Should you look up OEM part numbers or should you start researching aftermarket brands?

If you want the most value for your money, get OEM replacement parts. By using OEM replacement tailgate parts, you’ll enjoy:
- Better tailgate performance
- Longer lasting durability
- More safety
With aftermarket tailgate parts, you'll be taking a gamble on quality. Oftentimes, these parts will end up failing early. When it comes to tailgate parts, you need the best quality parts you can get. And that's OEM.
OEM Tailgate Parts Last Longer
Whether you're getting a replacement tailgate, a tailgate hinge, or another tailgate part, you want a part that will last a long time. GM makes its parts with high-quality materials. It's in the automaker's best interests to produce quality parts. It wants to uphold its reputation as a quality, reliable manufacturer. It also warranties its parts. So producing high-quality parts is cheaper for GM than constantly having to cover replacement costs.
Aftermarket companies aren't always so concerned about their reputation. Most (if not all) aftermarket companies don't warranty their parts. So aftermarket companies may feel inclined to use lower-quality parts. This is a big reason why aftermarket parts are cheaper than OEM parts. It's common for aftermarket parts to fail early on. You may save a few bucks upfront on aftermarket tailgate parts. Yet, premature failure may negate your initial savings.
OEM Tailgate Parts Are Made For Your Vehicle

A quality tailgate is made to match the look and finish of the original truck. OEM parts match the original design perfectly. They’re also specially made to fit your vehicle. When it comes to tailgate parts, it’s a big deal. You want your tailgate to:
- Open and close with ease
- Stay closed when you’re hauling cargo
Regardless of which tailgate part(s) you need, you always want to go the OEM route. All OEM parts fit just right. That includes all OEM parts, including brake parts, taillight assemblies, transfer cases, and more. It's because all OEM parts are built to OE specs. As long as you order OEM tailgate parts for your particular GM model, you'll get parts that will always fit right. You absolutely want tailgate parts with the right dimensions and fitment. It's important for your tailgate to open and close with ease. When you're hauling cargo, your tailgate must stay closed.
Poor-fitting tailgate parts will lead to trouble. For instance, if you get an aftermarket tailgate handle that doesn't fit just right, you may have trouble opening the tailgate. That can be quite a disaster especially if you're in a hurry. Another example: what happens if you get an ill-fitting aftermarket tailgate latch? Your tailgate can fly open while you're on the road and cause any cargo in the truck bed to fall out.
Order OEM Tailgate Parts From Us At Rock Bottom Prices
At GM Parts Center, we carry genuine OEM GM parts. Our prices are much lower than the prices you'd find at GM dealers. We have a wide variety of OEM tailgate parts to choose from. Look up your GM model in our catalog to see all the tailgate parts available for your truck!