When your vehicle needs collision repairs, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket parts. While aftermarket parts may seem like a cost-effective option, OEM parts offer unmatched reliability, safety, and longevity. Here’s why OEM parts matter in collision repair and why they’re the best choice for your vehicle.
1. Guaranteed Fit and Compatibility
OEM parts are designed by the original manufacturer of your vehicle, ensuring a precise fit without modifications. Unlike aftermarket parts, which are produced by third-party manufacturers and may not meet the exact specifications of your car, OEM parts:
- Fit perfectly without the need for adjustments.
- Maintain the structural integrity of your vehicle.
- Reduce installation time, as they are designed to match your car’s original build.
2. Superior Quality and Durability
When you choose OEM parts, you’re getting components that match the same high-quality materials and craftsmanship as the original parts in your vehicle. Aftermarket parts vary in quality, with some using subpar materials that can wear out faster and compromise the durability of your repairs. With OEM parts, you can trust that your vehicle will perform as intended, even after a collision.
3. Safety You Can Rely On
Your vehicle’s safety features rely on precision-engineered components that work together seamlessly. OEM parts undergo rigorous crash testing to ensure they perform as expected in an accident. Aftermarket parts may not meet the same safety standards, increasing the risk of improper function and reducing your vehicle’s ability to protect you and your passengers in a future crash.
4. Warranty Protection
Most OEM parts come with a manufacturer’s warranty, providing added peace of mind in case of defects or performance issues. Aftermarket parts often come with limited or no warranty, meaning you might have to pay out-of-pocket for replacements sooner than expected. Choosing OEM parts helps protect your investment in the long run.
5. Retaining Your Vehicle’s Value
Using OEM parts in collision repair helps maintain the original condition of your vehicle, preserving its resale value. When potential buyers or dealerships assess a vehicle, they often check for OEM or aftermarket parts. Cars repaired with aftermarket parts may have lower resale value, as they don’t meet the same standard as original manufacturer components.
6. Insurance and OEM Parts
While some insurance companies may suggest aftermarket parts to lower repair costs, you have the right to request OEM parts for your repair. Check your policy to see if OEM parts are covered, and if needed, discuss your options with your insurer to ensure your vehicle is repaired to factory standards.
Trust Covert Collision for OEM Parts in Austin
At Covert Collision, we use OEM parts to ensure quality, safety, and precision in every repair. Our technicians work with all major insurance providers to help you get the best parts for your vehicle. If you’ve been in an accident, trust Covert Collision in Austin, Texas, to restore your vehicle to its original condition using only the highest-quality components. Contact us today for an estimate!