Replacement Parts for your Vehicle
Each insurance company has specific policies regarding the types of parts used to repair the damage to your vehicle. Our Service Managers will explain to you what your insurance policy covers and what type of parts will be used on your vehicle.
New Original Equipment Parts (OEM): When you hear this term it means that the parts were either made by the manufacturer of your vehicle or by a vendor who makes the parts for the manufacturer. As a general rule of thumb, these parts are identical to the parts that were used during the original vehicle manufacturing process.
Aftermarket Parts: Aftermarket parts are copies of the original parts that were on your car when it was new. Consumers have been using aftermarket parts for years because it can lower the cost of repair. Some examples might be tires, batteries, windshield wipers, radiators, etc. All insurance companies require aftermarket parts for certain repairs but this varies greatly between companies. Our Service Managers can explain this in more detail if you are interested. These parts must meet or exceed industry standards for fit, appearance and safety or T.A.C.S. will contact your insurance company to request OEM parts for your repair. Sometimes, based on your specific policy and/or insurance company we are only able to use aftermarket parts.
Recycled Parts: Used or recycled parts are often parts that were on a vehicle that is no longer on the road because of other accident damage. Re-using these parts is another way to help contain costs without impacting the quality of the repairs. If these parts are used, they are closely inspected before any installation for quality.