Universal vs. Vehicle-Specific
Choosing What's Worth Buying for Your Truck
With so many automotive products on the market these days, it is not easy to decide which ones are worth buying for your vehicle. Buying will be a lot harder if you're unsure of the fitment and specifications.
You must understand the differences between universal and custom-fit truck accessories to help you decide what to buy based on your truck's needs.
What are universal parts?
A lot of companies make custom truck parts for popular models. For most vehicle-specific products, they provide templates in case drilling is required. Universal truck accessories may be the answer if you ever have trouble locating a replacement component for your vehicle's model.
Unlike custom-fit, universal parts have a "one size fits many" approach to automotive parts and accessories. Comparing the two may differ in size and design as universal parts are intended to fit most vehicles. They also generally work with a variety of makes and models. Manufacturers made the universal truck parts more affordable than custom-fit ones.
However, this rule has some exceptions. Some products labeled universal can only fit specific versions of trucks. You must check the product description and specifications carefully to ensure that they work with your vehicle.
Common universal parts
Very few automotive parts and accessories come in a universal fit. Even if the manufacturers tag them as “universal,” they will not always fit every vehicle.
Automotive fuses
Fuses are considered a universal component for all cars. Automakers use them to protect the electrical wiring of the vehicle. They prevent short-circuiting and overcurrent. Also, they disconnect the circuit if a potentially dangerous level of current is detected.
Fuses have a specific application and electrical equipment within a vehicle. Depending on the application, they come in different types and sizes. You can mount them in clips, blocks, or holders. Most modern cars have blade-type fuses wrapped in a colored plastic body, with two prongs that fit into the socket.
Electronic enhancements
Did you know that radios, speakers, alarms, backup cameras, remote starters, and other electronic devices are considered universal? The industry-accepted standardized radio dimensions come in single DIN or double DIN. When installing sound systems and other electronics on your vehicle, we highly recommend seeking professional help. Not unless you have extensive working experience with automotive electronics.
O-rings and Bolts
Some car owners consider them universal. You can buy them individually or in large batches. They are commonly used as attachments for many automotive products.
Seat covers
They provide a cost-effective way to protect the truck’s factory upholstery. However, expect them not to fit suitably like the custom-fit covers. Custom seat covers are more expensive as they are created using superior materials to ensure high quality. You may notice that universal-fitting seat covers may not cover the back and sides.
How is universal different from custom ones?
There are several vital differences between universal and vehicle-specific parts:
- Fitment: Vehicle-specific truck accessories and parts rely on the dimensions set by the automakers, so they can only fit particular models and years of manufacture. Universal parts may not give a suitable fit if the exact measurements of your truck do not match the product specifications.
- Design: Custom parts often look better than universal counterparts. Aftermarket accessories and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are designed specifically for certain vehicles. They also use precise measurements to ensure a flawless fit. However, that also means they come with a higher price tag. You will also find very few variations in universal-fit products as they cater to many truck models.
- Availability: Since aftermarket brands typically make custom truck parts, they can only be found at specialty retailers like 4WheelOnline. Universal truck parts are more widely available and purchased from local auto supply stores.
- Price: While vehicle-specific parts offer a more precise fit, their prices can be very high. Universal products provide an affordable option for those who only want a replacement for a damaged part. Products with a universal fit allow you to improve your vehicle without spending too much money.
Significance of accurate measurement
Selecting the right product fitment is crucial, especially in truck performance upgrades. You will need precise measurements for particular truck accessories and parts.
There's a long list of automotive products that can help you upgrade your truck's functionality, appearance, and performance. However, if you aren't aware of the application's exact dimensions, you might select incorrectly.
Universal parts may not be available for specific components that you might need. Before committing to purchase, you must check the product’s dimensions to see if it will match the measurements of your truck.
When measuring the parts to replace or upgrade, pay careful attention. In that way, you will ensure accurate fitment. You have to remember that poorly fitted parts can damage the truck in the long run and jeopardize your safety.
Are universal truck parts better than vehicle-specific truck parts?
Some truck owners will tell you that vehicle-specific parts are better because they fit perfectly. Choosing them means you don’t have to worry if they’re too short or long.
If you are on a budget, the prices of universal-sized products are reasonable. You can think of them as generic sizing because they work with multiple vehicle models. Nevertheless, you should expect that not all automotive components come in this fitment type. The one-size-fits-all approach of universal parts can be a gamble as they may cause problems during installation.
There is no definite answer to whether or not universal truck parts are better than vehicle-specific parts. Even if you ask a few car owners, you will get different opinions. Deciding on what you’re about to buy will depend on your needs and what you value most in the automotive accessory.
In conclusion, you must research and compare the pros and cons of each option before settling on a purchase. Some online automotive supply stores have configurator programs to index the fitment type of the part you’re searching for. Since the universal part fits a particular year, make, and model, check the specifications if they are intended for your vehicle.
About the Creator
Jen Demkin
Hi, I'm Jen from 4WheelOnline. My fascination with vehicles started in my childhood. I like cars more than dolls. I enjoy writing about automotive industry news, vehicle maintenance tips, and more.
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