How to Get Factory OEM Parts from Your Auto Insurance

Apr 28, 2023 | Insurance

As a car owner, you never know when you’ll need to file an insurance claim. In the event of an accident or damage, the last thing you want is to end up with substandard replacement parts that won’t hold up over time.

Thankfully, most insurance policies allow you to choose between Factory OEM parts and aftermarket parts.

When it comes to repairing your vehicle after an accident, repair shops have various options for replacement parts. Although some car owners prefer using parts made by the original manufacturer, most standard auto insurance policies do not provide coverage for them. However, it’s worth noting that many insurance companies offer optional coverage that can pay for the original parts you prefer. Therefore, it’s important to review your policy and check for optional coverage to ensure that you get the parts you desire.

Key Takeaways 

  • Know your rights by researching your state’s insurance laws to see if they require insurers to use OEM parts. If your state does not mandate OEM parts, you can consider adding an OEM endorsement or rider to your policy, if available.
  • Choose a reputable repair shop that you trust to provide quality repairs using OEM parts. Ask for recommendations, check online reviews, and ask for references.
  • Get a written estimate from the repair shop that includes both OEM and non-OEM options, and carefully review it to ensure that you understand what parts will be used and the total cost of the repairs.
  • If the estimate includes non-OEM parts, you can usually pay the difference to get the OEM parts you want. Alternatively, if your insurance policy requires the use of non-OEM parts, you can still choose to pay for OEM parts out of pocket.

Why Factory OEM Parts For My Car?

One main source of replacement parts for automobiles is OEM, or “original equipment manufacturer,” products. These parts are produced by the same manufacturer that built the vehicle and are designed to be identical to the original parts. For example, Ford Motor Company produces OEM replacement parts under several brands, including Ford Parts and Ford Motorcraft. These parts are known for their perfect fit and quality.

Why are Factory OEM Parts Important?

OEM, or “original equipment manufacturer,” products are created by the same manufacturer as the equipment they are intended for. These products are exact replicas of the original parts, created with the same materials and quality standards. This means that OEM products are a perfect match for your equipment, guaranteeing the same level of performance and longevity as the original parts.

In contrast, aftermarket products are created by third-party companies, often using cheaper materials and different design standards. This can result in lower quality and reliability, making aftermarket products a riskier choice for maintaining your equipment.

Why choose Factory OEM over aftermarket?

The main advantage of OEM products over aftermarket ones is their reliability and compatibility with your equipment. OEM products are designed to meet the same rigorous standards as the original parts, ensuring that they will function properly and not cause undue wear and tear on your equipment.

While aftermarket products may be cheaper upfront, they are often less reliable and may require more frequent replacement, resulting in higher costs in the long run. OEM products offer a higher level of quality and longevity, making them a more cost-effective choice in the long term.

Additional benefits of Factory OEM products

In addition to their superior quality and compatibility, OEM products also offer other benefits that aftermarket products may not. For example, purchasing OEM products gives you access to the manufacturer’s support network, meaning you can get answers to your questions and technical assistance from experts who know your equipment inside and out.

OEM products also typically come with a manufacturer’s warranty, providing additional protection and peace of mind. By choosing OEM products, you can ensure that your equipment remains in top condition and operates efficiently, saving you time and money in the long run.

How to Check if My Insurance Company Covers My Factory OEM Parts?

It’s important to understand the details of your OEM part coverage and how to go about using it. To ensure that OEM parts are used in your repairs, you may need to specifically request them from your insurance company or the repair shop. You should also confirm any additional costs or limitations associated with using OEM parts. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurance company for guidance. Call your insurance to check if you have the coverage for OEM parts, and ask them the following questions:

What is the specific coverage for Factory OEM parts? Does it apply to all parts or only certain ones?

Clarify what parts are covered under the OEM part coverage. Some insurance policies may cover all OEM parts, while others may only cover certain types of parts. It’s important to know what is covered so you can make informed decisions about your repairs.

Are there any limitations or restrictions on the use of Factory OEM parts? For example, is there a limit on the age or mileage of the vehicle, or does the coverage only apply to certain types of repairs?

It’s better for you to understand any restrictions or limitations on the use of OEM parts. Some policies may have age or mileage limits on the vehicle, while others may only cover certain types of repairs. Knowing these limitations can help you plan for potential repairs and understand what repairs will be covered by your policy.

How do I ensure that Factory OEM parts will be used in my repairs? Do I need to request them specifically, or will the repair shop automatically use them?

Is important because it helps you understand what steps you need to take to ensure OEM parts are used in your repairs. Some insurance policies may require you to request OEM parts specifically, while others may automatically use them. Knowing what steps you need to take can help you make sure you get the repairs you want.

What is the process for getting Factory OEM parts installed? Will I need to go through a specific repair shop or can I choose my own?

You may want to understand what your options are for getting OEM parts installed. Some insurance policies may require you to use a specific repair shop or network of shops to get OEM parts, while others may allow you to choose your own repair shop. Understanding the process can help you make an informed decision about where to get your repairs done.

Are there any additional costs associated with using Factory OEM parts? Will my deductible or premium increase if I choose to use them?

Ask your insurance company this question to understand any potential costs associated with using OEM parts. While some insurance policies may cover the cost of OEM parts, others may require you to pay a portion of the cost. Additionally, using OEM parts may impact your deductible or premium. Knowing the potential costs can help you plan for potential repairs and understand the impact on your insurance policy.

How to Setup Your OEM Policy With Your Insurance Company?

Remember to keep your policy up to date and review it regularly to ensure that you have the coverage you need. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your insurance agent for assistance.

If you want to set up an OEM policy with your insurance company, follow these steps:

Research insurance companies

Look for insurance companies that offer OEM coverage in your state. You can do this by searching online or by contacting insurance agents.

Contact your insurance company

If you already have car insurance, contact your insurance company and ask if they offer OEM coverage. If they do not, consider switching to a company that does.

Understand the coverage

Make sure you understand the specifics of the coverage, such as which parts are covered and any limitations or restrictions.

Request the coverage

If your insurance company offers OEM coverage, request it to be added to your policy. Your insurance agent can help you with this process.

Review your policy

Once the OEM coverage has been added, review your policy to ensure that the coverage is included and that it meets your needs.

Having an OEM policy with an insurance company can be helpful because it ensures that original equipment manufacturer parts are used for repairs, which can help maintain the value and performance of your vehicle. OEM parts are specifically designed for your make and model, so they are more likely to fit correctly and function properly. Using OEM parts can also ensure that your vehicle remains under warranty if it is still within the warranty period. In addition, some states require insurance companies to pay for OEM parts in certain situations, so having an OEM policy can help ensure that your repairs are covered without any unexpected expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Can I Distinguish Factory OEM Parts From Aftermarket Ones?

If you’re considering purchasing a used vehicle, it’s important to determine whether it contains any non-OEM parts. You can ask the owner directly, or have a qualified mechanic inspect the car to identify any aftermarket components.

Non-OEM parts can differ from OEM parts in various ways. For example, aftermarket fender panels may have screw holes that are larger and more difficult to align than OEM panels. Aftermarket radiators may also have fewer cooling tubes than OEM radiators.

Where Can I Find Factory OEM Parts?

Some car manufacturers sell OEM parts online. However, not all local mechanics or body shops have access to OEM parts, so the repair process may take longer if they need to order them from the manufacturer.

New car dealerships are typically the best source for OEM parts. Most major dealerships have a service department with a parts counter, where you can purchase the parts you need.

Why Are Factory OEM Parts More Expensive?

While aftermarket parts can fit multiple vehicles, OEM parts are specifically designed to fit particular makes and models. This specificity can increase the manufacturing costs of OEM parts.

Additionally, OEM parts are a significant source of revenue for car manufacturers. In fact, the revenue generated by a dealership’s parts and service departments can help offset any losses incurred during a slump in new car sales.

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