This master's thesis presents a comparative analysis of factory-installed lamps (OEM – Original Equipment Manufacturer) and lamps from the aftermarket. The aim of the research was to examine how differences in quality – understood as a combination of reliability, functionality, operational stability, and the presence of protective mechanisms – affect the reliability, durability, and compliance of components with industry standards. The study is based on three main hypotheses: OEM lamps achieve higher reliability, aftermarket lamps show a higher likelihood of failure under load, and standardized testing procedures enable an objective assessment of quality.
For the purposes of the analysis, standardized testing methods were used in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025 – General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories – and included electrical and climatic tests based on GS 95024-2 (Electrical and electronic components in vehicles – Electrical requirements and tests in 12 V onboard electrical systems) and GS 95024-3-1 (Electrical and electronic components in vehicles – Environmental requirements and testing). The testing included evaluation of electrical characteristics, resistance to high temperatures, and thermal cycling, while also taking into account the visual changes after testing.
The results showed that OEM lamps demonstrate more stable electrical behavior, higher mechanical resistance, and the presence of protective functions such as thermal and overvoltage protection. Aftermarket lamps were functionally adequate but showed more pronounced visual changes, lacked protection mechanisms, and exhibited lower robustness. One of them failed before completing the climatic test cycle.
The hypotheses were confirmed. OEM lamps provide greater reliability and stability, as no functional failures occurred during testing. In contrast, aftermarket lamps present a higher risk of failure under demanding conditions. The use of standardized testing methods proved essential for the objective evaluation of component quality and reliability.
|