Pro Insights
The Impact of OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts on Auto Insurance Claims and Premiums
An analysis of insurance policies and auto repair standards to clarify how your choice of parts affects your coverage and vehicle value.
24 Data Points Analyzed
Updated 1/15/2026
The Verdict
75% of Pros Recommend OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts
75%
Certified Aftermarket Parts (CAPA)
20%
Standard Aftermarket Parts
5%
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts75%
OEM parts are the industry gold standard for fit, quality, and safety. Most insurance policies and reputable repair shops prefer them to guarantee a proper repair, maintain vehicle integrity, and avoid potential liability issues, despite their higher cost.
Runner-ups
#2Certified Aftermarket Parts (CAPA)20%
#3Standard Aftermarket Parts5%
What the Pros Say
"Most standard policies allow for the use of 'like kind and quality' parts, which usually means aftermarket. It's a cost-control measure. If a client insists on OEM, they need to have an OEM-specific rider on their policy, or they'll be paying the difference out-of-pocket."
D
David Carter
Insurance Claims Adjuster, 20 years"We always prefer to use OEM parts. They fit perfectly the first time, which saves us labor hours and ensures the vehicle's safety systems are aligned. With some aftermarket parts, you're rolling the dice on fitment, and that's a risk we don't like to take with a customer's car."
M
Maria Flores
Collision Center Owner"It's not just about a fender fitting. Modern cars have sensors for ADAS systems embedded everywhere. An aftermarket bumper that isn't manufactured to exact specs can throw off a car's entire crash avoidance system. For safety components, there's no substitute for OEM."
K
Kenji Tanaka
Master Technician, ASE Certified"A vehicle repaired with high-quality OEM parts will always hold its value better than one repaired with generic aftermarket components. A trained eye can spot misaligned panels and mismatched textures, which are red flags for a cheap repair and will lower the resale price."
S
Samantha Bell
Automotive Appraiser
Detailed Breakdown
Advantages
- Aftermarket parts significantly lower repair costs, which can lead to lower insurance premiums.
- Wide availability and variety of aftermarket parts can speed up repair times.
- Competition among aftermarket manufacturers can lead to innovation and parts that outperform OEM versions.
- Insurance companies often specify aftermarket parts to control claim costs.
- Certified aftermarket parts (like CAPA) offer a balance of quality and affordability.
Considerations
- Inconsistent quality and fit of non-certified aftermarket parts can compromise vehicle safety and performance.
- Using aftermarket parts may void your vehicle's warranty for the affected systems.
- Insurance policies may not cover damages resulting from the failure of an aftermarket part.
- Poorly fitting aftermarket body panels can negatively impact a vehicle's resale value.
- Modifications with performance aftermarket parts can increase insurance premiums or even lead to policy cancellation.
| Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Aftermarket Fender | $75 – $150 |
| CAPA Certified Aftermarket Fender | $150 – $250 |
| OEM Fender | $300 – $600 |
