What are the most reliable aftermarket parts for BMW cars?
Image: BMW M5 Series front brake disc pair (aftermarket), suitable for F10, F06, F12 and F13 models — available at mtautoparts.com for £284.99
If you own a BMW, there’s a good chance you’ve looked at BMW aftermarket parts at some point, whether to save money, upgrade performance or find a faster alternative when OEM stock is hard to get. But here’s the truth, which BMW owners often discover the hard way: not all aftermarket parts are the same quality and even worth considering. Some are brilliantly engineered, offering sharper performance and long-term durability… and some are cheap imitations that simply won’t survive UK roads.
After researching the market, owner reports, UK forums, and brand histories, here’s a clear, honest breakdown of which aftermarket parts for a BMW you should trust in our opinion, and why quality varies so much across the industry.
Why Aftermarket Quality Varies — The Real Reason Behind the Price Difference
The aftermarket industry is massive, and unlike BMW’s OEM suppliers, not every manufacturer follows strict engineering tolerances. That’s why two parts that look identical online can behave completely differently once fitted.
1. Different manufacturing standards
OEM parts are built to precise tolerances. Many low-tier aftermarket parts use lower manufacturing standards, softer metals or thinner plastics, meaning they may fit, but won’t last.
2. Cheaper materials to hit a price point
Budget brands often use lower-grade rubber, aluminium or steel to keep prices competitive. This affects durability, heat resistance, and even safety-critical performance.
3. No universal regulations
In the aftermarket world, anyone can produce a “BMW compatible” part. The quality depends entirely on the brand’s own investment in testing, tooling and engineering.
4. Generic fitment vs BMW-specific design
BMW parts should be generic. They’re engineered to match weight distribution, damping characteristics, brake load and more. Cheaper aftermarket parts simply don’t replicate this.
This is why the phrase “aftermarket parts” covers everything from high-performance components to questionable e-commerce listings.
So Which Aftermarket Parts ARE Reliable?
Below is what you can safely buy, based on what we found from UK mechanics, BMW forums, performance tuning communities and owners' experiences.
1. Suspension Upgrades (One of the Safest Categories)
Suspension is where quality aftermarket brands consistently outperform the cheap alternatives. Well-engineered shocks and springs can sharpen handling, reduce body roll and breathe new life into ageing BMWs.
Respected brands (non-OEM suppliers):
H&R – performance springs known for longevity and balanced lowering
KW – coilovers designed for precision, daily usability and track reliability
ST Suspensions – KW’s more affordable sister brand with strong engineering
AP Suspension – budget-friendly but well-built coilovers for everyday use
These brands invest heavily in R&D and produce model-specific kits — not generic “fits everything” solutions.
Avoid: ultra-cheap coilovers from no-name brands. They often corrode, leak, or cause uneven tyre wear.
2. Brake Upgrades (Where Aftermarket Can Outperform OEM)
Because British roads demand a lot from brakes, upgrading beyond stock isn’t unusual.
Reliable aftermarket braking brands:
EBC Brakes – UK-made, great bite, excellent heat tolerance
Ferodo – strong pads for spirited road driving
Black Diamond – performance discs and pads with good longevity
These manufacturers are widely used by BMW owners and even track-day drivers across the UK.
Avoid: drilled discs from unknown sellers, they crack easily and wear out quickly.
3. Bushes & Mounts (A Worthwhile Upgrade for Ageing BMWs)
If your BMW has over 60k miles, worn rubber bushes are common. Upgrading to polyurethane can genuinely improve steering feel and handling sharpness.
Trusted aftermarket brands:
Powerflex – popular bush upgrades for newer BMWs
SuperPro – known for durability and comfort balance
Poly bushes can introduce slight NVH (noise/vibration), but the improvement in control is significant.
4. Exhaust Systems (Where Aftermarket Brings Character + Quality)
The right aftermarket exhaust can enhance sound, reduce backpressure and improve flow without compromising durability.
Quality exhaust manufacturers:
Milltek Sport – UK-built stainless systems, well-engineered and durable
Scorpion Exhausts – strong performance and great value
Remus – excellent build quality, premium tone
Fitment is usually spot-on because these companies design for specific models, not universal kits.
5. Styling Parts & Body Components
These don’t affect drivetrain reliability, making them a good option to consider buying aftermarket. Still, quality varies massively.
Trusted styling brands:
Maxton Design – splitters, side skirts, diffusers with proper model fitment
Ryft / various carbon brands (higher tier) – for upgraded trims and exterior carbon
Avoid: low-cost ABS plastic kits from marketplace sellers; poor fitment and brittle materials are common.
Which Aftermarket Parts Should You Avoid?
Some items should not be bought aftermarket unless the brand is genuinely proven. These include:
Timing chain kits
High-pressure fuel pumps
Turbochargers
Critical engine sensors
ECUs / electronic modules
Suspension air compressors
The risk of early failure outweighs the savings. In these cases, OEM or used genuine parts from trusted BMW breakers are the safer route.
For 2012+ BMW models, MT Auto Parts sees thousands of these units fail due to poor-quality aftermarket replacements and owners often end up replacing them again with original BMW spares.
OEM, Aftermarket or Used Genuine? — The Smart Mix for BMW Ownership
For BMW drivers in the UK, the most realistic approach is:
OEM or used genuine parts for the engine, drivetrain and electronics
Quality aftermarket for service parts (these are where reputable aftermarket brands shine)
Avoid budget no-name parts (they cause more problems than they solve)
This combination keeps costs sensible while preserving BMW driving dynamics.
Final Thoughts
The aftermarket world offers both gems and landmines. While the right BMW aftermarket parts can genuinely elevate your car, the wrong ones can lead to repeat repairs, safety risks and unnecessary expense.
The key is choosing parts with a real engineering reputation, not just a low price tag.
And if you ever need to balance cost and OEM quality, MT Auto Parts supplies genuine used BMW parts for 2012+ models, tested when required, photographed clearly and backed by a 30-day warranty (T&C apply). It’s the safest alternative when aftermarket options simply aren’t worth the risk.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. Aftermarket brands and product quality can vary, and performance may depend on the specific vehicle, installation and usage. Always research the manufacturer, confirm compatibility with your BMW model and consult a qualified technician if unsure.
