OEM vs Aftermarket vs Used Collision Parts in Warren MI
Open an insurance collision estimate and you may see terms such as OEM, aftermarket, alternative, recycled, used, LKQ, reconditioned or rebuilt. These descriptions are important because they tell you what type of replacement part is being considered for your vehicle. This Warren collision parts guide explains what those terms mean, how the categories differ and what questions you should ask before repairs begin.
Call (248) 545-4600 Send Us Your Insurance EstimateNot Every Replacement Part on a Collision Estimate Comes From the Same Source
Two estimates can describe the same damaged bumper, fender, lamp or door while specifying completely different types of replacement parts.
One estimate may specify a new OEM component from the vehicle manufacturer's parts network.
Another may specify a new aftermarket replacement component produced outside that original manufacturer parts network.
Another may specify a used or recycled original component removed from another vehicle.
Understanding those differences helps you understand what your collision estimate actually includes instead of looking only at the final dollar amount.
Terms You May See on an Estimate
OEM, Aftermarket and Used Parts Are Not the Same Thing
Each category describes a different sourcing method for the replacement component.
Original Manufacturer Part
A new replacement part supplied through the original vehicle manufacturer's parts system.
Examples may include a new OEM bumper cover, fender, headlamp, grille, hood or door shell.
New Alternative Replacement Part
A new component produced by a company other than the vehicle manufacturer.
Aftermarket parts may be available from several manufacturers and quality levels.
Original Part From Another Vehicle
A previously installed original component removed from a donor vehicle and sold for reuse.
Common examples can include doors, fenders, deck lids, liftgates and other reusable components.
What Does OEM Mean on a Collision Estimate?
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer.
In collision repair, an OEM replacement part is generally a new component supplied through the vehicle manufacturer's original parts network.
Because the component comes from the original manufacturer system, its design is intended to correspond with the vehicle for which it was produced.
OEM availability, pricing and manufacturer requirements can vary by vehicle and component.
Why a Customer May Prefer OEM
What Is an Aftermarket Collision Part?
An aftermarket collision part is a new replacement component produced outside the vehicle manufacturer's original parts network.
It Is Not a Used Part
Aftermarket describes who produced the replacement component, not whether it was previously installed.
Quality Can Vary
Different aftermarket manufacturers can produce replacement versions of the same general collision component.
Some Parts Are Certified
Some aftermarket collision parts may carry third-party certification or quality designations.
Read the Part Description
The estimate should identify the type of replacement part being considered rather than treating every new part as OEM.
Used Does Not Necessarily Mean Aftermarket
A used collision component may actually be an original manufacturer part that was previously installed on another vehicle.
Previously Installed OEM Part
Many recycled body parts began life as original components on another vehicle.
Vehicle Matching Matters
Year, model, trim, options, body style and part configuration can affect whether a recycled component is appropriate.
Used Parts Must Be Evaluated
Condition matters because a recycled component has already spent time on another vehicle.
Inspect When It Arrives
Shipping damage, previous repairs or unexpected condition can affect whether a recycled part can be used.
Not Every Part Is Interchangeable
Lamps, mirrors, bumpers, doors and other assemblies can change based on vehicle equipment and options.
Know What You Are Getting
Review the estimate and final repair documentation so you understand the category of replacement component used.
OEM vs Aftermarket vs Used Parts at a Glance
| Part Type | OEM | Aftermarket | Used / Recycled |
|---|---|---|---|
| New or Used | New | New | Previously installed |
| Manufacturer | Original vehicle manufacturer | Independent manufacturer | Usually original manufacturer part from donor vehicle |
| Condition | New | New | Depends on donor part |
| Availability | Depends on OEM inventory | Depends on aftermarket supplier inventory | Depends on available donor vehicles |
| Fit Evaluation | Still inspected during installation | Fit and condition should be verified | Condition and compatibility should be verified |
| Price | Varies by manufacturer and vehicle | Often positioned as an alternative to OEM pricing | Varies by condition, availability and supplier |
Why Does My Insurance Estimate List a Different Part Than I Expected?
Insurance estimates can specify different replacement-part categories depending on the policy, claim, vehicle, availability and estimating decisions.
Read More Than the Part Name
“Front bumper,” “fender” or “headlamp” does not tell you the complete story.
- Is it OEM?
- Is it aftermarket?
- Is it used or recycled?
- Is it reconditioned?
- Which supplier is listed?
- Are there notes or conditions?
Compare the Estimate With the Vehicle
The collision shop still needs to confirm that the listed part corresponds with the actual vehicle and repair.
- Correct vehicle application
- Correct trim or option package
- Correct sensor configuration
- Correct lamp or bumper configuration
- Acceptable condition
- Proper fit during repair
A Part Being Listed on an Estimate Does Not Mean the Shop Should Ignore a Fit or Condition Problem
Replacement parts should be evaluated as they are received and installed.
Alignment Matters
Bumpers, fenders, hoods, doors and lamps need to fit the surrounding vehicle correctly.
Tabs & Brackets Matter
A component with damaged or incorrect mounting locations can create alignment problems.
Inspect Before Final Installation
Used parts and shipped components should be inspected for damage or condition issues.
Modern Parts Can Carry Technology
Lamps, mirrors, bumpers and other assemblies may incorporate sensors, modules or wiring.
Similar Does Not Always Mean Identical
Two vehicles of the same model can have different equipment, mounting points or electronic features.
The Part Must Work With the Repair
Part selection should be evaluated together with the actual collision repair being performed.
Damaged, Defective or Poor-Fitting Parts Can Change the Repair
Replacement parts do not always arrive ready for immediate installation.
A shipped component can arrive damaged. A used component can have condition issues that were not obvious before delivery. An aftermarket component can require evaluation for fit. Even an OEM component can occasionally arrive damaged or incorrect.
When a problem is found, the repair facility should document the issue and determine the appropriate next step before completing the repair.
Common Part Problems
- Shipping damage
- Incorrect vehicle application
- Incorrect trim or option
- Broken mounting tab
- Prior damage on recycled component
- Poor panel alignment
- Wrong sensor configuration
- Part unavailable or backordered
Your Final Repair Invoice Should Tell You What Type of Parts Were Used
Michigan repair-facility rules require detailed identification of replacement parts on the final written invoice.
That means the final repair paperwork should do more than simply say a “bumper,” “fender” or “lamp” was replaced.
Keep your final invoice with the rest of your vehicle and insurance documentation.
Michigan Part Descriptions Include Categories Such As:
Before Approving the Repair, Understand What Is on the Estimate
What Type of Part Is Listed?
Ask whether the replacement component is OEM, aftermarket, used or another category.
Why Was That Part Selected?
Ask whether selection was related to the insurance estimate, availability, vehicle configuration or another factor.
Is the Part Correct for My Vehicle?
Trim, body style, sensors and vehicle options can matter.
What Happens if It Does Not Fit?
Ask how fit, condition or shipping problems are handled.
What Warranty Applies?
Warranty terms can differ between manufacturers, suppliers and repair facilities.
Will the Final Invoice Identify the Part?
Michigan repair documentation should identify the type of replacement parts installed.
Common Misunderstandings About OEM, Aftermarket and Used Parts
False. An aftermarket collision part can be brand new. The term refers to a part produced outside the original vehicle manufacturer's parts network.
False. A used collision component may actually be an original manufacturer component removed from another vehicle.
Not necessarily. Trim level, sensors, lighting technology, body configuration and other options can change the component required.
Parts still need to be inspected. Shipping damage, condition, compatibility or fit concerns can sometimes be discovered during the repair.
False. OEM and aftermarket components can both be new. Their source and manufacturer are different.
Part price is only one factor. Fit, condition, labor, availability and compatibility can also affect the repair.
More Information for Warren Drivers
Collision Parts Questions Warren Drivers Ask
What does OEM mean on a collision estimate?
What is an aftermarket collision part?
Does aftermarket mean the part is used?
What is a used collision part?
Is a used OEM part still an OEM part?
Why would an insurance estimate list aftermarket parts?
Why would insurance list a used part?
Are aftermarket parts always lower quality?
Can a used part have prior damage?
What if an aftermarket part does not fit correctly?
What if a replacement part arrives damaged?
Can OEM, aftermarket and used parts have different warranties?
Does Michigan require the repair invoice to identify the type of parts used?
Can I ask to see my replaced parts?
Is part price the only thing that matters?
Should I review the insurance estimate before repairs begin?
Can The Collision Repair Shop review my insurance estimate?
How do I get help with my Warren collision repair?
Not Sure What the Parts on Your Insurance Estimate Mean?
Send The Collision Repair Shop your Warren insurance estimate. We can review the listed OEM, aftermarket and used collision parts along with the actual damage and help explain what is included in the repair plan.
Call (248) 545-4600 Send Us Your Insurance Estimate