Know what's going on your vehicle.
Not all replacement parts are equal. Understanding the differences between OEM, OEM-equivalent, aftermarket, and LKQ (recycled) parts helps you make the right call for your repair — and know exactly what your insurance is paying for.
Airpark Auto Collision of Gaithersburg — 7615 Rickenbacker Dr, Suite C, Gaithersburg, MD 20879. Call (301) 908-0606
Parts made by the same manufacturer that built your vehicle. Identical fit, finish, and quality to what came on the car from the factory. Most expensive. Best for late-model vehicles, lease returns, and vehicles where resale value matters.
Parts made by third parties, certified by organizations like CAPA or NSF to meet OEM specifications. Significantly cheaper than OEM, very close in quality. Good middle ground for older vehicles or out-of-warranty cars.
Parts made by third parties without OEM certification. Cheapest option. Fit and finish can vary — sometimes obviously, sometimes not. Acceptable for older vehicles where cost matters more than perfection.
Original OEM parts pulled from salvage vehicles. Identical to new OEM in fit and finish, often cheaper, but condition varies. Common in insurance-approved repairs to keep costs down.
Depends on your policy. Some policies guarantee OEM (often called 'OEM endorsement'). Most default to aftermarket or LKQ when available, OEM only when not. We'll tell you exactly what's authorized before any work starts.
Yes. We'll quote the difference and you can pay out-of-pocket for the upgrade. Common on hoods, fenders, and bumpers.
Sometimes — particularly on luxury vehicles, late-model cars, and lease returns. For older or higher-mileage vehicles, the impact is usually minimal.