Will My Insurance Repair Estimate Include All New OEM Parts?

If you’ve been in an accident and your car needs repairs, one of the first questions you might ask is: “Will my estimate include OEM parts?” It’s a fair—and important—question. At Kunes Auto Body, we believe in transparency, safety, and giving you the power to make informed decisions when it comes to your vehicle and auto insurance.
Understanding the difference between OEM vs. aftermarket parts, and your rights in an insurance claim, is essential when reviewing a factory replacement parts estimate.

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, meaning these parts are made by the same manufacturer that built your vehicle. These are the same parts your car was built with—designed by the manufacturer, made to exact specs, and backed by a warranty.
When you choose OEM collision parts, you’re choosing:

• Precision fit
• Factory-grade quality
• Manufacturer warranty
• Maintained resale value
• Maximum safety performance

Many insurance companies default to aftermarket parts in repair estimates to reduce costs. That’s why it’s important to review your estimate carefully and know your options.
When deciding between OEM and aftermarket parts, it's important to consider the pros and cons of each. OEM parts tend to offer better quality and fit because they are made by the same manufacturer as your vehicle. However, they are often more expensive. On the other hand, aftermarket parts can be more budget-friendly but may vary in quality and fit. Understanding the differences between OEM and aftermarket parts can help you make an informed decision based on your budget and repair needs.

It depends on:

• Your policy: Some insurance companies include insurance-approved OEM parts; others require an upgrade or rider. It's important to check if your policy includes OEM coverage to ensure that original equipment manufacturer parts are used in your repairs.
• Your state laws: Certain states support your legal right to OEM parts—especially on newer vehicles or if you request them.
• Your repair shop: Shops like Kunes Auto Body will advocate for OEM parts in insurance repairs if requested.

If you want car repair with OEM parts, tell your insurer and repair shop up front. You have the right to request OEM parts in many cases, especially if safety or performance is a concern. Make sure to contact your insurance provider to see if they offer OEM coverage and consider switching if it is not offered.

When you receive a car repair estimate, look for these details:

• Part type codes like OEM, A/M (aftermarket), LKQ (used), or RECON (reconditioned)
• Descriptions of what’s being repaired or replaced
• Labor costs and paint/refinish details
• Insurance notes about part selection

At Kunes Auto Body, we’ll walk you through your OEM parts estimate for car repair, so you understand exactly what you’re getting—and can make informed choices based on your car insurance coverage.

The availability of OEM parts can be influenced by several factors, including the age and model of your vehicle. For older models, some OEM parts may be discontinued or no longer in production, making them harder to find. Additionally, supply chain disruptions, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events can impact the availability of OEM parts.
Regional availability is another factor to consider, as some parts may be more readily available in certain areas than others. This is why it’s essential to work with a reputable repair shop that has access to a wide range of OEM parts. A reputable repair shop will have the resources and connections to source the correct components for your vehicle, ensuring that your repairs are done with the highest quality parts available.

At Kunes Auto Body, we:

• Use OEM replacement parts whenever possible, as many auto body shops do.
• Body shops like Kunes Auto Body have the resources and connections to source the correct OEM parts for your vehicle.
• Work directly with your insurance provider
• Help you file for insurance repair with OEM parts
• Provide clear, detailed estimates
• Offer expert advice on aftermarket vs. OEM car parts

To ensure that you are getting genuine OEM parts, look for the manufacturer’s logo or part number on the packaging. Checking the part number against the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications can help confirm that it is the correct part for your vehicle. Be cautious of parts that are significantly cheaper than OEM parts, as they may be counterfeit or of lower quality.
Consider purchasing OEM parts from authorized dealers or certified repair shops to ensure that you are getting genuine parts. Additionally, be sure to check the warranty and return policy of the repair shop or parts supplier to ensure that you are protected in case of any issues. By taking these steps, you can be confident that your vehicle is being repaired with high-quality, genuine OEM parts.

You don’t have to settle for generic parts. Many drivers don’t realize they can request OEM parts in an insurance claim—especially when safety, appearance, or value is on the line, so it's important to contact your insurance company to understand your rights.
If you’ve been in a collision and want auto body repair with OEM parts, ask our team about your options. We’ll help you get OEM parts after a car accident, and make sure you understand what’s included in your repair plan.