OEM vs Aftermarket Parts — What Hemet Drivers Need to Know

What Are OEM Parts?

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These are parts made by the same company that manufactured the original parts on your vehicle. If you drive a Toyota, an OEM fender is made by Toyota (or their contracted supplier) to the exact same specifications as the one that came on your car from the factory.

OEM parts are supplied by the vehicle manufacturer or its authorized distribution channel and are designed for the applicable vehicle. Fit, finish, warranty, availability, repair procedures, and insurer approval still depend on the specific part and repair plan.

What Are Aftermarket Parts?

Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers, not the vehicle's original maker. These companies reverse-engineer the original part and produce their own version. The quality varies enormously -- some aftermarket manufacturers produce parts that are nearly indistinguishable from OEM, while others produce parts with noticeable fit, finish, and durability differences.

Common issues with lower-quality aftermarket parts include:

• Poor fit -- gaps between panels, uneven alignment, parts that require modification to install
• Inferior paint adhesion -- the primer and coating on aftermarket parts may not hold paint as well, leading to peeling or fading
• Thinner materials -- some aftermarket panels use thinner gauge metal, which affects crash performance
• Missing features -- brackets, clips, reinforcements, or sensor mounts may be absent or different

Why Do Insurance Companies Prefer Aftermarket?

Cost and availability are common reasons an estimate may list non-OEM or recycled parts. The actual difference varies by vehicle, supplier, part, and market conditions, so the repair plan should identify each part instead of relying on a generic percentage. (See our Inland Empire cost guide for how parts choices affect the total.)

Many insurance policies include language that allows the use of "like kind and quality" (LKQ) parts, which can include aftermarket or used parts. However, "like kind and quality" is subjective, and what an insurance company considers equivalent may not actually match the original part's quality, fit, or performance.

Your Rights Regarding Parts in California

California has specific regulations about parts used in collision repair:

• Insurance companies must disclose in writing when aftermarket parts will be used in your repair
• Aftermarket parts must be at least equal in kind, quality, safety, fit, and performance to the original parts
• You have the right to request OEM parts -- though your policy may require you to pay the difference in cost. (You also have the right to choose your own shop.)
• If your vehicle is under the manufacturer's warranty, using aftermarket structural or safety parts could potentially void warranty coverage for related components

When OEM Parts Matter Most

Not every part on your vehicle needs to be OEM. For cosmetic trim pieces or minor components, a quality aftermarket part may be perfectly acceptable. However, OEM parts are strongly recommended for:

• Structural components -- frame rails, aprons, pillars, and structural reinforcements that affect crash safety
• Safety systems -- anything related to airbag deployment, crumple zones, or occupant protection
• Body panels on newer vehicles -- modern cars use advanced high-strength steel and aluminum that require precise manufacturing tolerances
• Vehicles with active safety features -- radar sensors, cameras, and lidar systems are calibrated to factory panel positions

The Hidden Cost of Cheap Parts

A repair done with poor-quality aftermarket parts may look acceptable at first, but problems often emerge over time. Paint that does not adhere properly will chip and peel. Panels with poor fit allow water intrusion that leads to corrosion. Structural parts that are not up to specification compromise your safety in a future accident.

A lower part price does not by itself establish the total repair value. Fit, availability, required procedures, refinishing, labor, warranty terms, and the authorized repair plan all matter.

How to Request OEM Parts

1. Review your policy -- Some policies include OEM part coverage, especially for newer vehicles. Check your declarations page or call your agent.
2. Ask your shop -- A good body shop will advocate for OEM parts when they matter and explain where aftermarket is acceptable.
3. Put it in writing -- Request OEM parts in writing to your insurance company. If they refuse, ask them to document why and specify which "equivalent" parts they are substituting.
4. Consider the difference -- If your insurer will not cover OEM, ask what the price difference would be. For critical components, the out-of-pocket cost may be worth it.

What We Do at Drive Auto Body

At Drive Auto Body, the estimate identifies the proposed parts and we explain the options that apply before an authorized collision repair begins. Part selection depends on the vehicle, repair procedure, availability, insurer authorization, and customer authorization. (Comparing shops? Here is how to choose the right one.)

If you have questions about what parts are being used in your repair -- or if you want a second opinion on an insurance estimate that specifies aftermarket parts -- call us. We are happy to review it with you at no charge.