Aftermarket and alternative parts have their place in the repair process.
Believe it or not, some vehicles over four years of age begin encountering challenges when tracking down replacement parts. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts may simply no longer be available, and the only option becomes aftermarket or salvaged parts to repair your vehicle.
Remember that for your monthly premium to remain affordable; insurance companies use aftermarket parts in the repair process. Would you use a cheaper part to save money if the two were nearly identical in every way? How about reusing a component that is still good? Insurance companies are faced with this same challenge, and so have come up with policies and protocols to streamline their approval process throughout your automobiles repair.
Collision shops love the fit and feel of an OEM part; it is the preferred part to work with. If aftermarket parts are available and insurance will not pay for an OEM part, then your collision shop's hands are tied. Alternative parts must be used unless there is an insurance rider on your policy stating OEM must be used. With many vehicles these days, OEM parts have become harder to source, and aftermarket or alternative parts are the only choices left to repair your vehicle.
Body shops love using OEM parts. Think about it, if you had a choice to use a brand-new factory fit part, or a dirty slightly dented up used part or aftermarket part that fits a little less well, what would you choose? OEM parts tend to be easier to fit, prep, paint, and install. What is there not to love? Aftermarket parts can also fit well to your vehicle, often after a bit more finesse and effort on the collision technicians' part. Most of the time, you will not be able to tell the difference between OEM and aftermarket parts once the job is complete.
Sometimes we need to adjust our viewpoint. It can be too hard to fight the good fight for OEM parts. Perhaps your wallet won't allow it, or maybe there simply isn't a part available from the factory for your car anymore, or you are too busy with other things to deal with it. If your insurance policy won't allow for the use of an OEM part, perhaps it makes sense to let your insurance company direct the repair as per their standard policy. You may just be too busy to wrestle for OEM parts, and the payoff may be too little. If you have questions as to the aftermarket quality of your parts, contact your local contact at Robert's Collision and ask them their opinion. It is common for certain alternative parts to be more trouble than others. Your collision shop will be able to advise you as to the quality, fit, and feel of the parts that will be used in your car.
When you need some advice, come into CARSTAR Robert's Auto Repair. Our skilled technicians provide the best repairs and services in the region and will fight for you and your car to make sure you have the best possible parts. We are here for all of your auto repair and maintenance services, auto body repair, tire needs, or full auto detailing. We strive to be your one-stop auto shop, and we work hard to provide you with an outstanding customer service experience! Make your appointment today! We're located at 234 Ramona Ave, Monterey, CA. 93940. We look forward to your visit!