OEM Parts After an Accident: 5 Critical Rights Every Texas Driver Should Know
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Many Texas drivers assume an accident repair automatically means brand-new factory parts. However, the type of replacement parts used can depend on your vehicle, your policy, the repair estimate, and the rules that apply to the claim.
Will You Get OEM Parts After an Accident?
Your vehicle gets hit, you file a claim, and the body shop starts repairs. At first, everything may seem straightforward. Then you read the estimate and notice words such as “aftermarket,” “recycled,” or “reconditioned.”
That can surprise drivers who expected the shop to use the same type of factory parts that originally came with the vehicle. Therefore, you should review the repair estimate before work begins.
Knowing the difference between OEM, aftermarket, and recycled parts can help you ask better questions and understand what the shop plans to install.
The 3 Types of Replacement Parts
OEM Parts — Original Equipment Manufacturer
OEM parts come from the vehicle manufacturer. In other words, they are factory-brand replacement parts designed for that make and model. They generally offer predictable fit and finish, although they may cost more than other options.
Aftermarket Parts — Made by Third Parties
Aftermarket parts are new replacement parts made by companies other than the vehicle manufacturer. Quality can vary. Therefore, drivers should read the estimate carefully and ask the repair shop about the manufacturer and certification of any proposed aftermarket part.
Recycled or Salvage Parts — Previously Used Parts
Recycled parts may include original factory components removed from another vehicle. Although they can reduce repair costs, they have already been used. Ask the repair facility where the part came from and whether it is appropriate for the repair.
5 Critical Rights Texas Drivers Should Know
The repair estimate affects more than the final bill. It also tells you what parts the insurer and repair shop expect to use. Before authorizing repairs, understand these five important points.
1. Know What Parts the Repair Estimate Includes
First, review the written repair estimate before work begins. Look for descriptions identifying parts as OEM, aftermarket, recycled, reconditioned, or another category.
If anything is unclear, ask questions before authorizing the repair. That way, you know what the shop plans to install rather than discovering it after the work is finished.
2. Ask Whether OEM Parts Are Covered
Next, ask whether your claim or policy provides for OEM parts. Coverage can depend on the vehicle, policy language, available endorsements, and other claim details.
If the estimate uses another type of part, you can still ask about OEM alternatives. However, you may be responsible for a price difference when your policy does not cover the full OEM cost.
3. You Can Choose Your Repair Shop
Another important issue is where your vehicle gets repaired. Your insurer may recommend a repair facility or provide a preferred-shop program.
Nevertheless, you can discuss other repair-shop options and choose a facility you trust. Before deciding, ask how the shop handles replacement parts, calibration, warranties, and supplements to the original estimate.
4. Ask Questions About Aftermarket Parts Before Repairs Begin
If the estimate includes aftermarket parts, do not wait until you pick up the vehicle to ask about them. Instead, discuss the proposed parts with the repair shop before installation.
For example, ask about the part manufacturer, fit, certification, warranty, and how the shop will handle any problems. In addition, ask whether an OEM option is available and what it would cost.
5. Review Your Options Before Approving the Repair
Finally, do not treat the repair estimate as paperwork you can ignore. Read it before signing or approving repairs.
If you disagree with a proposed part, ask the repair shop and insurer what alternatives are available. Most importantly, have that conversation before installation whenever possible.
Texas Rules Can Affect the Parts Used in Your Repair
The PDF highlights Texas rules concerning replacement parts, including special considerations for newer vehicles. Therefore, the vehicle’s age and purchase history can matter when determining what parts should appear on a repair estimate.
Because laws, policy forms, and claim circumstances can differ, confirm the rule that applies to your specific vehicle and loss before authorizing repairs.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts: What’s the Difference?
| Factor | OEM Parts | Aftermarket Parts |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Vehicle manufacturer | Third-party manufacturer |
| Fit | Designed for the vehicle | May vary by manufacturer |
| Cost | Often higher | Often lower |
| Availability | May take longer to source | May be easier to source |
Neither the label nor the price alone tells the whole story. Consequently, ask about the specific part proposed for your vehicle and how it fits into the repair plan.
What Are CAPA-Certified Aftermarket Parts?
The PDF recommends asking about CAPA-certified parts when OEM parts are not being used. CAPA stands for the Certified Automotive Parts Association.
Therefore, if an estimate includes an aftermarket replacement, ask whether the part carries a recognized certification and discuss the specific part with your repair professional before installation.
OEM Endorsement — Extra Protection for Factory Parts
Some auto insurers offer an OEM-parts endorsement or similar optional coverage. Depending on the policy, this endorsement may provide broader access to factory-original parts after a covered loss.
However, eligibility and terms vary by carrier. Vehicle age, part availability, claim circumstances, and policy language may also affect coverage.
Therefore, drivers who strongly prefer OEM parts should review this option before an accident happens rather than waiting until a vehicle is already in the body shop.
Do Aftermarket Parts Automatically Void Your Vehicle Warranty?
The PDF notes that using a non-OEM part does not automatically mean your entire vehicle warranty disappears. However, warranty questions can become more complicated if a replacement part causes a problem with another component.
As a result, keep your repair paperwork and ask both the repair facility and vehicle manufacturer about warranty terms when you have concerns about a specific replacement part.
Don’t Forget About Diminished Value
Even after a vehicle receives quality repairs, an accident history may affect its market value. This potential loss is commonly called diminished value.
If another driver caused the accident, ask whether you may have options for pursuing a diminished-value claim. Eligibility and the amount of any recovery depend on the facts of the claim.
5 Steps to Protect Yourself After an Accident
Before the body shop starts repairs, use these steps to understand what will happen to your vehicle.
Step 1 — Choose a Repair Shop You Trust
Ask how the shop handles OEM, aftermarket, and recycled parts. In addition, ask how it handles modern sensors, cameras, and calibration when those systems are involved.
Step 2 — Read the Repair Estimate Carefully
Look at each listed replacement part. If you do not understand a description, ask the shop to explain it before you authorize the repair.
Step 3 — Ask About Your OEM Options
Next, confirm whether OEM parts apply to your claim or whether you can request an OEM upgrade. If there is an additional cost, ask for that amount in writing.
Step 4 — Ask About Certification When OEM Is Not Used
If the estimate includes aftermarket parts, ask what company made them and whether they carry a recognized certification. Most importantly, discuss any concerns before installation.
Step 5 — Review Diminished Value After the Repair
Finally, if another driver caused the accident, consider asking about diminished value. A completed repair does not necessarily mean the accident had no effect on the vehicle’s market value.
OEM Parts After an Accident: FAQs
Are OEM Parts the Same as Factory Parts?
Generally, OEM refers to Original Equipment Manufacturer parts associated with the vehicle manufacturer. They differ from third-party aftermarket replacements.
Can I Ask for OEM Parts?
Yes, you can ask about OEM parts. However, whether the insurer pays the full cost depends on the policy, claim, vehicle, applicable rules, and any available OEM-parts coverage.
What if My Estimate Lists Aftermarket Parts?
Ask the shop and insurer what type of aftermarket parts they plan to use. In addition, ask about manufacturer, certification, fit, warranty, and available OEM alternatives.
Can I Choose My Own Body Shop?
You do not have to select a repair shop simply because an insurer recommends it. Ask about your options and select a repair facility you trust.
Should I Add an OEM Endorsement?
If factory-original parts are important to you, ask whether your carrier offers OEM-parts coverage and what its eligibility rules are. Comparing that option before a loss can prevent surprises later.
The Bottom Line
Do not assume that every accident repair automatically includes new OEM parts. Instead, read your repair estimate and find out exactly what the shop plans to install.
Next, ask about your OEM options, your policy coverage, and any available endorsements. If aftermarket parts appear on the estimate, ask about their manufacturer and certification.
Most importantly, ask these questions before repairs begin. Understanding the estimate early gives you more time to discuss your options with the repair shop and insurer.
Want to Know What Parts Your Policy Covers?
BundleBee can help you review your auto policy and understand the coverage available for OEM and other replacement parts before an accident happens.
Important Information
This article provides general insurance information only and does not provide legal advice. Replacement-part coverage and repair requirements can vary based on policy language, endorsements, vehicle age, claim circumstances, repair availability, and applicable law. Review your repair estimate and insurance policy and confirm your specific rights and coverage with your insurer, licensed insurance professional, repair facility, or qualified legal professional when appropriate.