Getting the right parts.

First you have OEM (Orginal Equipment Manufacturer), these are parts made by the vehicle's original manufacturer and are bought at local dealerships. These parts meet factory specifications as to fit, finish and corrosion protection as well as crash worthiness. These are the same parts that were installed on your vehicle when it was built at the factory. They also carry the vehicle's manufacturer's warranty.

Next you have A/M or aftermarket parts. These parts are not made by the vehicle's original manufacturer, meaning they do not go under the same rigorous testing. Non-OEM parts have been shown in many cases to have decreased tolerances for fit and finish, rust faster and offer lower crash resistance than factory approved components. In addition, the use of these parts may void your vehicle's warranty in areas that may be affected by their use.

Then there are Reconditioned parts. These are generally OEM parts that were previously damaged and have been repaired by an outside source. The quality of these parts depends on the quality of the repairs made to them by the recondition company.

Finally you have Used Salvaged or LKQ parts. The term LKQ stands for Like, Kind, Quality. If the LKQ part has no prior damage, and the repair shop de-trims the part for painting, then treats the part with corrosion protection, you may have a part that will restore your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition. This all depends on if the insurance company compensates the repair facility to properly restore the part and if the facility itself thoroughly inspects and restores the parts integrity.

Unfortunately most people will not find out until after they file a claim, that they agreed to the use of alternative parts when they bought their insurance policy. Most insurance companies these days have it written into their policies that you must accept the use of these alternative parts or pay the difference. Of course many insurance policies offer OE riders or added stipulations to the policy, for which you may pay a premium, that allow the use of OEM parts.

So in the end are all parts created equally? Not really. Is it ever hood to use anything but OEM parts? Well that's a maybe. In some cases to save money it may be perfectly acceptable to use certain parts that are properly inspected and restored. In certain cases where safety and long term durability are of concern why risk either at any cost.

Of coarse the final decision is up to you, the consumer and it will be up to the repair facility to inspect the part for quality fit finish and safety and to back the repairs that use installation of alternative parts and receive your authorization.

One last consideration for those of you with leased vehicles, please check your lease agreement. Some leases may require you to make sure you are using only Genuine OEM parts. In the event that dealer finds non-OEM parts installed on a car that technically is still owned by the manufacture you may be charged to replace those parts with original OEM parts.