One of the most common questions we get at Oiwa Garage is:”Should I buy OEM parts or go with aftermarket for my Honda Acty?”
Whether you’re driving a classic HA3 kei truck or a newer HH5 van, choosing the right parts can impact everything—from performance and reliability to long-term cost. In this post, we break down the pros and cons of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) versus aftermarket parts to help you make the right decision for your Acty.
🏷️ What Are OEM Parts?
OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer that built your Honda Acty. They’re designed to match factory specs and are often identical to what came on the truck when it rolled off the assembly line.
✅ Pros:
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Guaranteed Fitment – No guesswork or modifications required.
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Reliable Quality – Built to last, tested by Honda’s standards.
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Resale Value – Keeps your Acty closer to original condition.
❌ Cons:
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Pricey – OEM parts are usually more expensive.
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Limited Availability – Some parts for older Actys (like the HA2/HA3/HA4) are discontinued or rare.
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Slower Shipping – If it needs to be imported from Japan, expect delays.
🧰 What Are Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers and are not affiliated with Honda. They can range from exact replicas of OEM parts to high-performance upgrades.
✅ Pros:
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Lower Cost – Often more affordable than OEM.
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More Options – Performance, off-road, and style upgrades available.
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Easier to Find – Common wear parts like brakes, filters, and shocks are widely stocked.
❌ Cons:
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Quality Varies – Some brands are excellent, others are cheap and unreliable.
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Fitment Issues – Not all parts match perfectly, especially for kei trucks.
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No Honda Warranty – You’re trusting the brand, not the original manufacturer.
🔧 Real-World Examples from the Honda Acty
✅ Use OEM When:
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Replacing critical engine components (e.g. timing belt, head gasket).
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Restoring a classic Acty to factory condition.
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You want long-term reliability over cost savings.
🔄 Use Aftermarket When:
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Upgrading suspension (e.g. lift kits, performance shocks).
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Replacing common wear parts (e.g. brake pads, filters, bushings).
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Looking for better lighting (e.g. LED headlight kits, interior bulbs).
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Customizing the truck for work or recreation.
🛠️ Oiwa Garage Pro Tip:
Mix smart. There’s no rule that says you have to go full OEM or full aftermarket. At Oiwa Garage, we often recommend OEM for engine and drivetrain, and aftermarket for suspension, lighting, and accessories—especially if you’re customizing your build.
🛒 Final Word: What’s Right for Your Acty?
It depends on your goal.
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Want a reliable daily driver? Use a blend.
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Restoring a collector’s truck? Stick with OEM.
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Going off-road or overlanding? Aftermarket all the way.
Not sure which route to go for your specific part or build?Contact us at Oiwa Garage—we’ll help you make the right call based on your budget, goals, and Acty model.
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