OEM vs. Aftermarket: Should You Ask for Original Replacement Parts After an Accident?

Choosing the Best Parts for Your Repair!

If you’ve recently been in a car accident and your vehicle needs repairs, one important question may come up: Should you request original replacement parts, also known as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts? At Victory Auto Body and Paint in Burbank, California, this is a question we hear often—and for good reason. The quality of your replacement parts can affect your car’s safety, performance, and long-term value.

Here’s what you need to know before making the decision.

What Are OEM Parts?
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These are the exact parts your car came with from the factory, made by the vehicle’s manufacturer or an approved supplier. They're built to your car’s specific design and safety standards.

Benefits of OEM parts include:

• Perfect Fit: Guaranteed to fit your car exactly as the original.
• Consistent Quality: Meets manufacturer standards for durability and performance.
• Maintains Resale Value: Keeps your vehicle as close to original condition as possible.
• Peace of Mind: You know exactly what you're getting, with no guesswork on quality.

What Are Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers who are not affiliated with your car’s brand. While some aftermarket parts are decent quality and more affordable, they can vary widely in fit, finish, and reliability.

Risks with aftermarket parts:

• May not fit precisely
• Lower-cost materials can wear faster
• Could impact your vehicle’s warranty
• May reduce resale value if noticeable

Some insurance companies prefer aftermarket parts to keep claim costs down, but you have the right to request OEM parts—especially if your car is newer or still under warranty.

Do Insurance Companies Cover OEM Parts?
Insurance policies differ. Some cover OEM parts automatically, while others only do if you request it or have special coverage.

At Victory Auto Body and Paint, we advocate for our customers. We’ll work with your insurance adjuster to help you get OEM parts approved when possible, especially if they’re crucial to the vehicle’s integrity or involve safety systems like airbags or crash sensors.

When You Should Insist on OEM

• Newer Vehicles: OEM parts maintain the value and ensure proper operation of advanced features.
• Leased Cars: Many lease agreements require OEM parts to avoid penalties at return.
• Luxury or Performance Vehicles: These cars rely on precision parts to function properly.

Victory Auto Body’s Commitment to Quality
Whether your car needs a new fender, bumper, or hood, we always prioritize quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. If OEM parts are available and important for your repair, we’ll fight to get them approved through your insurance company—or work with you on the best path forward.

Call or visit Victory Auto Body and Paint in Burbank today. We’ll guide you through the repair process and make sure your vehicle gets the parts—and care—it deserves.