What does OEM parts mean?

OEM parts match the parts your car was originally built with when it was brand new. Some repair shops also call these "genuine" parts.

What are aftermarket parts?

Also called "alternative parts," aftermarket car parts are typically cheaper and easier to get.

OEM vs. aftermarket parts

OEM parts are typically a safer choice because you know you're getting a quality product that won't affect your car's value or void your warranty.

However, aftermarket parts are usually cheaper and can be equally well made. But you'll need to do some research to make sure the aftermarket parts will fit your car properly and that the parts company has a good reputation.

For guaranteed fit, choose OEM

Because OEM car parts are made by your car's manufacturer, they're guaranteed to fit your car perfectly.

That's not always the case with aftermarket parts. The repair shop may need to modify aftermarket parts to fit your car, which could lead to a higher labor cost.

If a warranty is important, choose OEM

Most OEM parts include a one-year warranty, so you don't have to worry about replacing them again in the near future. Some aftermarket parts include a warranty, but many don't. This is partially how aftermarket manufacturers keep the cost of their parts down.

If quality is important, do your research

OEM parts are typically well made. You'll also have peace of mind knowing that they came from a quality brand — the same brand that built your car.

The quality of aftermarket parts can vary significantly depending on the company that made them. Some aftermarket parts are just as good, if not better, than OEM parts. If you're considering aftermarket parts, read reviews on the manufacturer to get a better idea of whether their parts are well made.

When safety matters, choose OEM

OEM parts are designed and tested by your car's manufacturer and must meet federal safety regulations. For example, an OEM bumper is designed to crumple in a specific way to protect passengers during a crash.

However, not all parts need to meet strict safety standards. For example, glass, lights, mirrors, interior trim, wheels and basic mechanical parts don't have a big effect on crash safety. On the other hand, you should always prioritize safety when it comes to airbags, crash sensors, bumpers, brake system electronics and structural parts, such as frame rails and crumple zones.

If resale value matters, choose OEM

When you fix your car using OEM parts, you're restoring it to pre-accident condition in the eyes of buyers. This can help your car retain its value, even after a wreck.

In addition, dealerships typically look for OEM parts on trade-ins so they can market your car as certified pre-owned. So OEM parts may help you get more money if you ever plan to trade in your car.

Are aftermarket auto parts cheaper than OEM parts?

Aftermarket parts are usually cheaper than OEM parts. For example, an aluminum bumper reinforcement bar for a 2020 Honda Accord costs around $1,155 from Honda. But the same aftermarket part costs about $181.

There are a few reasons that aftermarket parts may be cheaper, including:

If you want your car fixed quickly, consider aftermarket

Aftermarket parts are easy to find, which means it will usually take a repair shop less time to order them and fix your car. In fact, you can find lots of aftermarket parts at your local auto parts shop.

However, you can buy OEM parts only from the dealership or a licensed dealer. If you're working with an independent mechanic or repair shop, they can usually order OEM parts from the dealership on your behalf. But it may take longer to get the OEM parts, which could lead to longer repair times.

Does insurance cover OEM parts?

Whether OEM parts are covered depends on your insurance company and your state's laws. Insurance companies typically prefer to use aftermarket parts because they tend to be cheaper.

Even if your insurance company doesn't cover original equipment manufacturer parts, you can always request that the mechanic use OEM parts to repair your car. But you may have to pay extra for repairs.

Which insurance companies cover OEM parts?

That means you'll pay extra to guarantee your car will be fixed using OEM parts after an accident.

American Family, Farmers and Liberty Mutual all advertise OEM parts coverage as a policy option. However, you may need to call an agent to get this coverage, as it's typically not available to add to your online quote.

If you want OEM coverage, start by calling your current insurance company to see if it can add it to your policy.

Do insurance companies have to pay for OEM parts in your state?

Most states don't require insurance companies to use OEM parts when fixing your car after a crash.A handful of states require OEM parts to be used in newer vehicles.

However, your insurance company is typically required to make it clear on your estimate if they plan to repair your car using aftermarket parts.

In many states, you must agree to the use of aftermarket parts before repairs can start, including New York, Oregon and Rhode Island. That doesn't mean your insurance company will pay for the OEM parts, though. So if you don't want aftermarket parts used on your car, you'll probably have to pay more to fix it.

When are OEM parts a better choice?

You should request OEM parts if you:

When are aftermarket parts a good choice?

You should consider using aftermarket parts if you:

If you decide to use aftermarket parts, you should:

Frequently asked questions

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Methodology

Information regarding insurance coverage and company offerings is from individual company websites.