Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
OEM (original equipment manufacturer) refers to the company that designs and builds the original machinery, vehicle or component, whose specifications govern warranty, parts compatibility and recommended service intervals.
An Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is the company that designs and produces an asset or component in its original form. In asset management, OEM refers to the manufacturer whose specifications, service intervals, and approved parts lists govern how equipment should be maintained. OEM documentation, including service manuals, parts catalogues, and warranty terms, forms the baseline for maintenance planning and compliance.
Why it matters
Following OEM-recommended service intervals and using approved parts protects warranty coverage and ensures equipment performs as designed. Deviating from OEM specifications without documented justification can void warranties, increase failure rates, and create liability if an incident occurs. OEM data also sets the starting point for maintenance schedules that teams refine over time with operational experience.
How MapTrack helps
MapTrack stores OEM service intervals, parts lists, and documentation against each asset record, ensuring maintenance teams follow manufacturer guidelines and can demonstrate compliance during warranty claims.
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Frequently asked questions
Why should maintenance follow OEM recommendations?
OEM service intervals and procedures are based on the manufacturer’s engineering data, testing, and failure analysis. Following them ensures the equipment operates within its design parameters, maintains warranty coverage, and meets any regulatory requirements that reference manufacturer standards. Organisations may adjust intervals based on operating conditions, but should document the rationale for any deviation.
What is the difference between OEM and aftermarket parts?
OEM parts are manufactured by or to the specification of the original equipment maker. Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party manufacturers as compatible replacements. OEM parts typically carry the manufacturer’s warranty backing, while aftermarket parts may be less expensive but can vary in quality. For safety-critical components, OEM parts are generally the lower-risk choice.
How should OEM documentation be managed for a large asset fleet?
Store OEM manuals, parts lists, and service bulletins digitally against each asset record in your asset management platform. Link OEM service intervals directly to the preventive maintenance schedule so that reminders are generated automatically. When the OEM issues updated service bulletins or recalls, apply them to the relevant assets and update the maintenance plan accordingly.
Related terms
Spare Parts Management
Spare parts management is the process of planning, procuring, storing, and issuing replacement components and consumables needed to maintain and repair assets. It involves determining which parts to stock, setting minimum and reorder quantities, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring parts are available when needed without carrying excessive inventory. Effective spare parts management balances availability against holding costs.
Preventive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance (PM) is a proactive maintenance strategy in which assets are serviced at predetermined time or usage intervals to reduce the likelihood of failure. Tasks may include inspections, lubrication, filter changes, calibrations, and component replacements. PM schedules are typically based on manufacturer recommendations, regulatory requirements, or historical failure data.
Service History
Service history is the chronological record of all maintenance, repairs, inspections, and modifications performed on an asset throughout its lifecycle. A comprehensive service history includes dates, descriptions of work, parts used, technician details, costs, and supporting documentation such as photos or test certificates. It serves as the permanent maintenance biography of an asset.
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