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What are aftermarket parts?

Aftermarket parts are replacement vehicle parts made by a company other than the original vehicle manufacturer (OEM).

These parts are commonly used during collision repairs and may include:

• bumpers

• headlights

• fenders

• mirrors

• grilles

• radiators

• suspension components
   

Some aftermarket parts are brand new, while others may be recycled or reconditioned depending on the repair process.
 

Are aftermarket parts the same quality as factory (OEM) parts?

Quality can vary.

Some aftermarket parts may fit and perform similarly to OEM parts, while others may differ in:

• material quality

• thickness

• finish

• corrosion protection

• mounting alignment

• appearance

• durability
   

Fitment and quality may depend on:

• manufacturer

• vehicle type

• complexity of the part

• repair facility experience
   

Can aftermarket parts create fit or appearance issues?

Sometimes.

Potential concerns may include:

• uneven panel gaps

• mounting difficulties

• paint matching differences

• sensor alignment concerns

• wind noise

• trim alignment issues
   

Modern vehicles with ADAS systems, sensors, cameras, or specialty finishes may be more sensitive to fitment differences.

Will aftermarket parts affect my vehicle warranty?

This depends on:

• the specific vehicle warranty

• the part involved

• manufacturer policies

• repair procedures
   

In many situations, simply using an aftermarket part does not automatically void an entire vehicle warranty.

However, if a non-OEM part directly causes a failure or related issue, warranty coverage for that specific issue may become more complicated.

Customers with newer vehicles, luxury vehicles, leased vehicles, or specialty vehicles often ask additional questions regarding OEM part usage.
 

Is it in my insurance policy that aftermarket parts can be used?

Many insurance policies contain language allowing the use of:

• aftermarket parts

• alternative parts

• recycled parts

• reconditioned parts

during the repair process.
 

Policy language may vary by:

• state

• insurance carrier

• policy type

• endorsement selections
   

Some states also have disclosure requirements regarding non-OEM part usage.
 

Can I request OEM parts instead?

Often, yes.

Customers may discuss OEM part preferences with:

• the insurance company

• repair facility

• independent appraiser

• repair planner
   

In some situations, the customer may choose to pay the price difference between the aftermarket part allowance and the OEM replacement part cost.
 

Can I pay the difference for OEM parts myself?

In many situations, yes.

Some customers elect to contribute toward:

• OEM upgrades

• factory-certified parts

• specialty components

• manufacturer-required procedures

depending on the vehicle and repair goals.
 

The amount owed may vary depending on:

• part pricing

• labor differences

• calibration requirements

• availability
   

Will the repair shop price match for OEM parts?

Sometimes.

Some repair facilities may:

• discount OEM pricing

• work with dealer pricing programs

• negotiate pricing adjustments

• match aftermarket pricing in certain situations
   

This varies significantly by:

• repair facility

• part availability

• vehicle type

• local market conditions
   

Why do insurance companies use aftermarket parts?

Insurance companies may approve aftermarket parts as part of cost-management and repair practices when the parts are considered:

• available

• appropriate

• comparable

• compliant with policy language
   

Part usage decisions may depend on:

• vehicle age

• mileage

• availability

• state regulations

• repair complexity
   

Can an independent appraiser review part usage concerns?

Yes.

Independent review may help customers better understand:

• OEM vs aftermarket differences

• repair estimate differences

• part selection concerns

• ADAS considerations

• repair-related valuation concerns
   

Cardwell Claim Authority provides independent estimate and valuation review support for:

• total loss disputes

• repair estimate disputes

• supplement concerns

• diminished value claims

• appraisal clause matters.