When your vehicle is involved in a collision, getting it back to its original condition becomes a top priority. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or significant structural damage, one critical decision you’ll face is whether to use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts or aftermarket parts. Many people are not familiar with the repercussions of this decision. Choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts can impact your car’s warranty coverage, safety, performance, and value.
At Mudgett’s Auto Body, we have first-hand experience with the pros and cons of both choices. Understanding why OEM parts are the best option will help you to make an informed choice that protects your investment and your safety on the road.
Understanding the Difference Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts
Many car owners may not realize that the quality and fit of the parts used in their repair will differ greatly depending on their origin. OEM parts are produced by the vehicle’s manufacturer and specifically designed for your make and model. They match the exact specifications, dimensions, and materials originally used when your car was built.
On the other hand, aftermarket parts are produced by third-party companies and designed to fit a range of vehicle makes and models. While they are typically less expensive, they often vary in quality, material, and fitment standards. This variation can create issues with safety, warranty coverage, and your vehicle’s long-term performance.
Maintaining Your Manufacturer’s Warranty
Most vehicles today come with detailed warranties that cover various components for an extended period. These warranties often stipulate that repairs and replacements must use OEM parts to remain valid. If aftermarket parts are used, you risk voiding sections of your warranty, which can become a significant expense if your vehicle later experiences mechanical or electrical failures.
Choosing OEM parts at Mudgett’s Auto Body ensures that your warranty remains intact. This can save you thousands in potential repair costs down the line.
Why Safety Should Be Your Top Priority
When your car was built, every component was engineered to work together seamlessly. From crumple zones to airbag sensors, all of these systems rely on the precise design and functionality of each internal part. While some systems within your car can still operate with minor changes, many of the systems are designed with specific requirements. Using OEM parts for repair work ensures that your car is restored to its original state so that the internal systems can continue operating as designed. Aftermarket parts can work, but they will not be an exact match to your car’s original part, and there are often differences in quality. These differences have the potential to impact your car’s performance and safety.
Consider the importance of a front bumper. If an aftermarket bumper is made of lower-quality materials or does not align precisely with your vehicle’s frame, the force distribution during a subsequent collision could be compromised. This small deviation can lead to severe injuries that OEM parts are designed to help mitigate.
Protecting Your Vehicle’s Resale Value
Another crucial reason to choose OEM parts is the impact on your car’s resale value. Potential buyers often inquire about a vehicle’s accident history and the type of repairs that have been completed. Cars repaired with OEM parts maintain higher resale value because the parts are identical to the original components. This signals that your vehicle was repaired to manufacturer standards, ensuring structural safety and authentic condition.
In contrast, using aftermarket parts can lower the resale value, as these parts are not considered original. A dealership would likely still purchase a vehicle that has been repaired with aftermarket parts, but the trade-in value could be significantly lower, depending on the part that was replaced. When you invest in OEM parts now, you protect the future value of your vehicle.
Ensuring Long-Term Durability and Performance
OEM parts are engineered to meet strict performance standards. Whether it’s a structural panel, mechanical part, or electronic component, each OEM part is manufactured using materials and designs that were thoroughly researched by teams of engineers. This means that all components of your car met or surpassed the manufacturer’s standards. Using OEM parts means that your car’s performance will continue to meet those standards.
Aftermarket parts may not undergo the same quality assurance processes. Due to these lower standards, many will wear out quicker, perform poorly, and require repair or replacement much more frequently. So while you may save money up front by choosing an aftermarket part, in the long run, you will end up paying substantially more.
Peace of Mind with OEM Parts
Ultimately, choosing OEM parts for your collision repair offers unmatched peace of mind. You can drive away knowing that every component used in your repair is identical to what was originally designed for your vehicle. This means no guesswork, no compromises in quality, and no worries about potential safety risks caused by inferior parts.
The cost difference between OEM and aftermarket parts is often minimal when you consider the long-term safety, performance, and value of your vehicle. Investing in the highest quality repair parts is a decision that protects not only your car but also your family and everyone who rides with you.
Insurance Considerations and Your Rights
Often, insurance companies may recommend aftermarket parts to reduce claim costs. However, as the vehicle owner, you have the right to request OEM parts for your repair, especially if your policy includes this coverage or if you are willing to cover any cost differences. It is important to advocate for the best parts for your vehicle rather than simply accepting the least expensive option.
Take the time to familiarize yourself with your insurance policy so that you know exactly what you are entitled to. The goal should always be repairing your vehicle with the parts and methods that will restore safety and functionality to 100%. Our auto technicians will always provide you with our expert opinion on what the best repair strategy is for your vehicle.
The Expertise of Certified Collision Repair Shops
Many certified auto body shops maintain direct relationships with manufacturers to access OEM parts quickly and install them with precision. By taking your vehicle to experts in collision repair, you are making a choice that ensures accurate, knowledgeable, and trustworthy services. Our team understands the engineering behind your vehicle and uses advanced equipment and training to ensure every part is installed exactly as it was designed.
Have Confidence in Your Vehicle Repair
Your vehicle is a valuable investment and a critical part of your daily life. If your car is involved in a collision, you want to make sure that it is repaired to the highest safety standards. OEM parts are the recommended choice for getting your car back on the road. We value your safety and want you to be confident in the condition of your vehicle after an accident.
Our expert technicians at Mudgett’s Auto Body are ready to provide guidance, quality repairs, and exceptional service that puts your needs first. Please reach out today for assistance with your next steps after an accident.
