2002 Thunderbird Replacement Parts-OEM or Aftermarket? – The 2002 Thunderbird is now 14 years old, and as is the case with all used cars, components break down and need replacement. One big question when it’s time to replace that broken or worn-out part is “Should I choose OEM Ford parts or aftermarket replacement parts?” The choice may ultimately be decided by availability. Original new or ‘new-old-stock’ replacement parts for the 2002-2005 Thunderbird are becoming harder and harder to find. Many components, such as interior trim panels, body panels, and shocks, struts and springs, have been ‘obsoleted’ by Ford and have been out of production for several years. The few remaining parts have increased in price due to scarcity; as supplies dwindle, dealers with remaining stock often raise their prices over original list price. For instance, the glove box trim panel for a 2005 Thunderbird which originally sold for under $ 200, is now priced at over $ 3,400! That’s not a misprint … a 17-fold price increase! How is that possible? Let’s examine the 2002-2005 Thunderbird parts dilemma.
Tracking the availability of OEM Ford Thunderbird Parts
OEM car and truck replacement parts are typically tracked by nationwide computer databases. Dealers can search for any part using a centralized locator system and see which, if any dealer or Ford parts warehouse may have stock. When inventory of a given part is reduced to only one or two parts nationwide, the price of that part is often increased to reflect the relative demand and scarcity.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacture) or Aftermarket?
Some 2002-2005 Thunderbird parts are available either as an original OEM Ford part or as an aftermarket replacement. What is an ‘aftermarket’ part? An aftermarket part is one made by a company other than the original vehicle manufacturer or their original licensed supplier. Items like belts, hoses, brake pads and spark plugs are among the most commonly produced aftermarket components. They are often manufactured to original OEM specifications and are designed to perform as well as the original, dealer-supplied part. Aftermarket parts are typically less expensive than original OEM parts due in part to the value of a ‘name-brand’ such as Ford or GM. Price is often the main reason buyers might choose and aftermarket price versus an OEM factory part, and may be the only option if the original OEM part is no longer available.
Which Should I Choose?
If a needed part is available both from Ford and one or more aftermarket suppliers, which should I choose? There are a couple of factors to keep in mind when deciding on OEM or aftermarket part replacements: First, is the aftermarket part as durable, reliable, and built to the same specifications and with the same quality materials as the original OEM part? Aftermarket parts makers often ‘outsource’ production to foreign countries. Foreign-made parts may use less expensive materials and/or less stringent production and quality-control practices. This can affect the durability and longevity of a part, even if the parts look alike. An appearance or trim item will not likely impact performance or safety. However, components like brake pads, belts or hoses that are not manufactured to the same standard as original OEM parts could result in either serious damage to other components or even safety risks. One specific example is the 2002-2005 Thunderbird’s coolant recovery or ‘degas’ bottle. Aftermarket replacements are available for less than half the price of the OEM Ford part, but a number of owners have reported failure of aftermarket parts due to inferior materials and/or construction. The old saying, “You get what you pay for,” may apply here. A poor quality replacement part is no bargain at any price, and can result in costly repairs related to that part in addition to the inconvenience and expense of replacement. It can be difficult to accurately judge the quality of an aftermarket part compared to an OEM part, and many parts are offered by more than one aftermarket company. Do your homework and check with other Thunderbird owners through local clubs, referrals, and online forums.
Another consideration is originality. While keeping a car completely original is not usually important to the average owner, but some believe that the 2002-2005 Thunderbird is destined to become a true ‘classic,’ and will appreciate in value in the coming years. For those who are concerned with future values, or who compete in car shows, originality can be a very important consideration.
If your 2002-2005 Thunderbird is covered by a Ford ESP service plan, your Ford or Lincoln dealer will use OEM parts. In this case, the price of the part is not an issue for the owner. If your Thunderbird is no longer covered by a factory or private warranty, the choice of OEM or aftermarket parts will be up to you or your mechanic. In this case it’s important to know what kind of warranty the part carries, and if the potential cost savings is worth the possible risk of using an aftermarket part.
Where should I buy replacement parts for my 2002-2005 Thunderbird?
If you’re looking for OEM parts, the logical first choice is your Ford dealer. Many dealers offer online discounts. If you have the part number, searching for parts is a lot easier and quicker. If you don’t have a part number, your dealer may be able to supply it. You can also search online using a part description, but make sure you’re getting the correct part; parts compatibility varies between the 2002 and 2003-2005 Thunderbirds. A part that fits a 2002 may or may not be compatible with your 2003. Also, many early Thunderbird part numbers have been changed, replaced or ‘updated’ with different part numbers. Even if you have a part number, there are various different interior color and trim variations. The interior door panel and dash trim parts for instance are different for each production year from 2002-2005, in addition to the unique finishes used for the various ‘feature’ cars such as the 2003 ‘James Bond 007’ edition, the 2004 ‘Pacific Coast Roadster,’ and the 2005 ‘Cashmere’ special edition Thunderbird.
Another option for locating discontinued, out-of-production Thunderbird parts is by searching salvage yards and auto dismantlers. This can be a challenge because the inventory of salvaged 2002-2005 Thunderbirds is low, and parts from a salvaged vehicle are used and may not carry any warranty.
When you need a replacement part for your 2002-2005 Thunderbird, check with us first. Powersport/Thunderbird Specialties offers the largest selection of both OEM and aftermarket replacement parts available anywhere, with nearly 100 different parts in stock, including many hard-to-find interior trim components that you won’t find anywhere else. If you need a part that’s not shown on our website, call or e-mail us. Some parts such as instrument clusters, are no longer available either from Ford or aftermarket companies, however, we offer rebuilding, repair and reconditioning of them at a fraction of the price of the new part. Whatever you’re looking for, chances are we either have it, or can locate it for you.
Start your search here: https://www.thunderbirdspecialties.com/product-category/oem-part-replacements/
