Genuine vs Aftermarket Accessories

When it comes to setting up your vehicle for work, touring or everyday practicality, accessories like bullbars, roof racks, towbars and lightbars are often the first upgrades people think about. But once you start shopping, you quickly run into the big question every driver eventually faces: should you choose genuine accessories from the manufacturer, or go with aftermarket brands that promise similar features at a lower price

It is a debate that has been around for years, and both sides have their loyal supporters.

The truth is, the right choice depends on what you value most and how you use your vehicle. Here is a clear look at what each option offers and why genuine accessories often come out ahead.

Why Genuine Accessories Still Lead the Pack

And that is the other major advantage: warranty. Genuine accessories are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty when fitted at the dealership. If anything goes wrong, whether it is a wiring issue, a mounting problem or a compatibility fault, you are protected.

With aftermarket accessories, the responsibility often falls on the installer or the accessory brand, and the vehicle manufacturer may not cover related failures

Aftermarket accessories exist for a reason. They are often cheaper, they offer more variety and some brands specialise in heavy duty touring gear that appeals to off road enthusiasts. If you are building a custom setup or chasing a very specific look, the aftermarket world gives you more freedom.

There are excellent aftermarket brands out there, especially in the four wheel drive space, and many drivers swear by them. But aftermarket gear is not always tested on your exact vehicle, and compatibility can vary. Fitment may require modifications, wiring may not be plug and play, and safety systems may not behave the same way they do with genuine parts.

Price is usually the biggest drawcard. Aftermarket bullbars, roof racks, towbars and lightbars can be noticeably cheaper upfront.

But the trade off is that you are relying on the installer and the accessory manufacturer for support, not the vehicle brand. If something goes wrong, you may find yourself bouncing between companies trying to work out who is responsible.

The Price Difference What You Are Really Paying For

It is true that genuine accessories often cost more. But the higher price reflects the engineering, testing and integration work that goes into them.

You are paying for guaranteed compatibility, factory level safety and full warranty coverage.

Aftermarket accessories can save you money upfront, but may cost more in the long run if they cause electrical issues, sensor faults, warranty complications or premature wear. For many drivers, the peace of mind that comes with genuine accessories is worth the extra investment.

Here is something many buyers do not realise. When you shop for a pre owned vehicle, you might already be getting thousands of dollars worth of accessories included in the price.

A lot of owners fit their vehicles with bullbars, roof racks, towbars, lightbars and other upgrades. When they trade in, those accessories stay with the vehicle. That means you could drive away with a fully equipped setup without paying for each accessory individually.

It is one of the biggest advantages of browsing pre owned stock. You are not just choosing a vehicle. You are choosing a vehicle that may already be fitted with the exact gear you were planning to buy anyway. And because the accessories are already installed, you do not have to worry about booking fitment, waiting for parts or organising wiring.

If you are looking for a vehicle that is ready for work, towing, touring or weekend adventures, it is worth checking out our pre owned range. Many of our used vehicles come with genuine accessories already fitted, and in some cases, high quality aftermarket gear as well. It is one of the easiest ways to get more value for your money.

If you want genuine accessories, the best place to buy and fit them is through your dealership. That ensures the parts are authentic, the installation is correct and the warranty is protected. Dealership technicians are trained specifically on your vehicle and know how to integrate accessories without affecting safety systems.

If you are exploring aftermarket options, it is important to choose reputable brands and experienced installers. Look for specialists who understand your vehicle model and can explain how the accessory will interact with your safety systems, wiring and load limits.

So Which Is Better?

There is no single answer. Genuine accessories offer the best fit, the best integration and the strongest warranty protection. They are the safest choice for most drivers, especially if your vehicle is new or still under warranty.

Aftermarket accessories can be a great option for custom builds, specialised off road setups or budget conscious upgrades, as long as you choose quality brands and skilled installers.

But if you want the simplest, safest and most reliable option, genuine accessories are hard to beat. And if you are open to a pre owned vehicle, you might find one that already has everything you need fitted and ready to go.