The Auto Parts Industry

The Auto Parts Industry

A vehicle's auto parts make it run, and their performance is vital to a car owner's safety and the functionality of his or her commute. Auto parts manufacturers create a wide variety of components and systems, including electrical, engine, transmission and suspension parts. Some are small, individual items such as an ignition coil or a brake pad, while others are major assemblies such as the drive system or the power steering and cooling systems.

The industry is highly competitive, with tens of thousands of suppliers worldwide. Many of the world's top 100 suppliers are located in Europe and Japan, although other nations also supply significant numbers of auto parts. These include China, with twelve of the top twenty-five suppliers, Thailand and South Korea with eight each, and India with five. These companies often specialize in specific types of auto parts.

Vehicle manufacturers purchase two-thirds to three-fourths of the parts used in their production vehicles, while a smaller user group includes repair shops and commercial installers such as gas stations and fleet operators. A third, less significant group is the do-it-yourself consumer.

In addition to supplying components directly to vehicle manufacturers, many of the world's largest auto parts suppliers operate large retail networks. These include AutoZone, with 3,200 outlets, and Genuine Parts, which operates more than 900 locations. These stores sell OE replacement parts, as well as accessories that enhance the look, comfort, performance or safety of a vehicle.

While OEM auto parts are the best choice for your car, there are alternatives such as aftermarket parts and even used parts. While aftermarket parts may save you money, they can sometimes cause additional wear and tear on your car, and they might break down much sooner than the original equipment would have. Used parts are a more affordable alternative, but you should make sure that they come from a reputable seller.

Automotive technology is rapidly advancing, and new systems and features are appearing regularly. Some of these are developed by the vehicle manufacturers themselves, while others are the work of innovative supplier companies. Examples include electronic fuel injection, anti-lock braking systems and automatic dimming mirrors.

The line between cars and trucks is increasingly blurring, with consumers demanding vehicles that offer the amenities of a car with the utility of a truck. These "crossover" vehicles require unique steering, chassis, seating and other systems, many of which are supplied by auto parts suppliers.

A vehicle's brakes are among its most important safety features, and they must be in good working condition to ensure the driver's ability to stop the car when necessary. The brake system comprises a set of components that include the master cylinder, wheel cylinders and brake discs or pads. The catalytic converter is another essential component that reduces harmful emissions from a vehicle. These are manufactured by many different companies, ranging from single-location operations to network operators such as General Motors, Ford and Chrysler. Other major producers of these components include Denso, a leading Japanese producer of automotive electronics and automatic transmission systems, and Magna, a Canadian company noted for interiors, closures, body and chassis systems, seats and auto-dimming mirrors.

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