European vehicles are engineered to precise specifications, and the parts that go into them matter. A cheap aftermarket part might look the same, but it may not meet the manufacturer's specifications for fit, performance, or longevity. At Tony's Foreign Cars, we use genuine OEM parts for warranty-critical components and offer premium OEM-equivalent parts for budget-conscious situations. We always discuss your options before ordering and explain the differences in warranty, longevity, and performance. Our goal is a repair that lasts — not a repair that brings you back in 6 months.
What's Included
Comprehensive service with attention to every detail
Genuine OEM parts for warranty-critical components (timing chains, turbos, modules)
Premium OEM-equivalent parts from reputable manufacturers (Bosch, Brembo, Lemförder, Mahle)
OEM-spec fluids (BMW Longlife, Mercedes MB Approval, Porsche-approved, ZF Lifeguard)
OEM filters (oil, air, cabin, fuel) from manufacturer-approved suppliers
Quality aftermarket options for budget-conscious repairs, with honest discussion of trade-offs
Parts warranty — we stand behind the parts we install
Documentation of all parts installed with brand and part numbers
No surprise parts charges — we get your approval before ordering
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions our customers ask most
Q.What's the difference between OEM and aftermarket parts?
A.OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by or for the vehicle manufacturer — they're the same parts that came on the vehicle from the factory. Aftermarket parts are made by third-party companies. Quality varies widely — some aftermarket parts meet or exceed OEM specs (Bosch, Brembo, Lemförder), while others are cheap imitations that fail prematurely. We use OEM for critical components and premium OEM-equivalent for budget-conscious situations.
Q.Do you always use OEM parts?
A.We use OEM parts for warranty-critical components (timing chains, turbos, modules, brake pads) and for customers who want maximum longevity. For budget-conscious situations, we offer premium OEM-equivalent parts from reputable manufacturers — and we explain the trade-offs honestly. We never use cheap aftermarket parts that we wouldn't put on our own vehicles. We discuss all options before ordering.
Q.Why are OEM parts more expensive?
A.OEM parts cost more because they're engineered to manufacturer specifications, tested for your specific vehicle, and backed by the manufacturer's warranty. They typically last longer and perform better than cheap aftermarket parts. We've seen cheap aftermarket parts fail in 6 months where OEM parts last 5+ years. The cost difference is often small compared to the cost of doing the repair twice.
Q.Will aftermarket parts void my warranty?
A.Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, aftermarket parts don't automatically void your warranty — but if an aftermarket part causes a failure, the manufacturer may deny warranty coverage for that specific repair. To be safe, we use OEM parts for warranty-critical components. We can discuss aftermarket options for non-critical components if budget is a concern.
Q.Do you warranty the parts you install?
A.Yes. We stand behind the parts we install. OEM parts typically come with a manufacturer warranty (12 months/12,000 miles or more), and we warranty our labor on all repairs. If a part we installed fails within the warranty period, we replace it at no charge. We document all parts with brand and part numbers for warranty claims.
Q.Can I bring my own parts?
A.We generally prefer to use our own parts so we can warranty the complete repair. If you have a specific part you'd like us to install (e.g., a performance upgrade you purchased), we can discuss it. However, we can't warranty parts we don't supply, and we'll be upfront about that. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
Serving the Cape Fear Region
Conveniently located in Wilmington, NC — trusted by European vehicle owners throughout coastal North Carolina.