You probably don’t give your oil pan much thought until something goes wrong. Once it cracks, corrodes, or starts leaking, though, you’re looking at oil dripping everywhere and potentially being stuck on the side of the road with serious engine damage. Whether it got dinged by road debris, eaten away by rust, or scraped during a bad parking lot encounter, what starts as a tiny drip can turn into an expensive problem faster than you’d think.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to pay dealership prices to fix it. Aftermarket oil pans have come a long way and now perform just as well as factory parts, sometimes even better. All this for a fraction of the cost. You’re getting solid quality without emptying your wallet.
These aftermarket replacements hold up just as well as OE parts but cost way less, so you’re basically getting the same thing for a better price. If you need a reliable oil pan that won’t break the bank, check out the selection at CarParts.com today.
Below are five options that balance solid build, decent reputation, and good fit and finish.
This is one of the oldest names in the aftermarket parts world. JC Whitney started back in 1915 as a parts catalog business, and now it extends that legacy to its online offering. What stands out is the strong value position: steel and aluminum direct-fit oil pans, solid warranties, and wide availability.
Key Features
Price range: $20 to $190
Material/finish: Steel construction with OE-style design
What’s included: Standard direct-fit pan; many include a drain plug
Warranty: 1-year unlimited-mileage warranty
Fitment: Broad coverage across many makes and engines with OE replacements
Installation notes: Direct-fit with no modification needed, but confirm sump location and bolt pattern
Our Score: 9.5/10
A-Premium offers aftermarket oil pans that highlight accurate fit and straightforward installation for many pickup and SUV models. Their catalog features oil pans priced between $75 and $135, with clear fitment information for each part. They often list sump location, part numbers, and warranty details that make choosing the right pan less of a guessing game.
Key Features
Price range: $75 to $135
Material/finish: Steel with durable anti-corrosion coatings
What’s included: Some models include a drain plug; others are sold individually
Warranty & support: 3-year unlimited-mileage warranty on select models
Fitment: Strong lineup for domestic trucks and import vehicles
Installation notes: Clear “check fit” prompts for easy matching and ordering
Our Score: 9/10
Liland, also known as Liland Global, produces a range of aftermarket oil pans with an emphasis on corrosion resistance and OE-level fit. They’ve built a reputation among DIY mechanics and restorers for dependable quality and broad coverage. If your original oil pan is discontinued or overpriced at the dealer, Liland is a practical alternative.
Key Features
Price range: Around $40 to $300
Material/finish: OE-style stamped steel or cast aluminum
What’s included: Usually just the pan; verify gasket and plug availability per listing
Warranty: Lifetime guarantee on select SKUs
Fitment: Wide range including imports, domestic vehicles, and classics
Installation notes: Straightforward install; confirm sump orientation and sensor locations
Our Score: 8.5/10
Dorman has been a mainstay in the aftermarket scene for decades and is known for its OE FIX line that often improves on factory designs. They offer oil pans for nearly every make and model, with upgraded aluminum versions that replace fragile OEM plastic pans. The company’s coverage and warranty make it a dependable choice for daily drivers and professionals alike.
Key Features
Price range: $25 to $1,015
Material/finish: Available in cast aluminum and steel
What’s included: Many models include a drain plug and improved sealing setup
Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty on many products
Fitment: Covers most domestic and import vehicles
Installation notes: OE FIX versions simplify installation and address common leak issues
Our Score: 9/10
APA/URO Parts, a division of APA Industries, caters to European makes like Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. Their products are known for OE-style precision and impressive warranty terms, offering a dependable alternative to expensive dealership parts. For Euro car owners, APA/URO is a safe bet that doesn’t sacrifice quality.
Key Features
Price range: $25 to $510
Material/finish: OE-style construction with correct sensor and port provisions
What’s included: Typically includes pan only; some listings add hardware
Warranty: 24-month unlimited-mileage warranty, with lifetime coverage for ÜRO Premium
Fitment: Wide selection for popular European makes
Installation notes: Perfect match for Euro engines without the dealer markup
Our Score: 8/10
If you’re choosing just one brand, pick JC Whitney. It’s the most balanced option for everyday vehicles, offering great pricing, solid materials, and a dependable fit. The one-year unlimited-mileage warranty gives peace of mind, and their direct-fit design means fewer surprises during installation. For the average driver looking for a quick, affordable fix, JC Whitney checks all the right boxes.
When replacing an oil pan, close enough isn’t good enough. Match the engine size, sump location (front, center, rear), bolt pattern, and sensor ports. Listings that include OE part numbers and sump orientation make this easy.
Steel pans are durable and affordable, while aluminum pans resist corrosion and help with heat dissipation. Some aftermarket versions upgrade from plastic to metal, preventing the same failures seen in OEM designs.
Some pans include a drain plug, gasket, or washer, but not all. Knowing what’s included in the box helps you avoid mid-job surprises.
Warranties prove that a company stands behind its product. Customer feedback and forum discussions can also offer insight into real-world performance.
Replacing an oil pan can range from simple to complex. Some vehicles require removing subframes or exhaust components. If space is tight, plan with the right sealant, gaskets, and tools. A direct-fit pan from a trusted brand can save you hours of frustration.
When your oil pan starts to leak, rust, or crack, you don’t need to drain your wallet along with your engine oil. The five brands above offer dependable options for nearly every car or truck. Choose the one that fits your vehicle, your budget, and your skill level. Get back on the road in no time by shopping at CarParts.com today.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.