What's going on your car, and who decides.
When your car is being repaired, the parts that go into it aren't all the same — and your insurance policy often dictates which type they'll pay for. Understanding the three categories helps you make an informed choice and recognize when it's worth paying out of pocket to upgrade.
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OEM parts are made by (or for) your vehicle's manufacturer — identical to what came on the car from the factory. They offer guaranteed fit, finish, and crash performance, and they typically carry a manufacturer warranty. The trade-off is cost: OEM parts are the most expensive option, and not every policy covers them by default.
Aftermarket parts are produced by companies other than the automaker. Quality ranges widely — some certified aftermarket parts are excellent, others fit poorly or use thinner materials. Many insurers prefer aftermarket parts because they cost less. Certified aftermarket parts (look for CAPA certification) are held to a fit-and-quality standard, which matters for structural and safety components.
Recycled parts — often labeled LKQ for 'like kind and quality' — are genuine OEM components salvaged from other vehicles. They deliver true OEM fit at a lower price and are common for things like doors, hoods, and trim. The consideration is availability and condition; a good shop inspects every recycled part before it goes on your car.
Most standard policies authorize aftermarket or recycled parts to control costs, especially on older vehicles. If you want OEM throughout, check whether your policy includes OEM-parts coverage or an endorsement — and if not, you can usually upgrade by paying the difference. Maryland gives you the right to know what's being installed; we always tell you exactly what's on the estimate before any work begins.
Certified aftermarket parts (such as CAPA-certified) are held to fit-and-quality standards and are generally safe. Uncertified parts can vary in quality. For structural and safety-critical components, OEM or certified parts are the safer choice.
You can request them. Whether insurance pays depends on your policy — many cover aftermarket or recycled by default. If you want OEM and your policy doesn't include it, you can usually upgrade by paying the cost difference.
LKQ stands for 'like kind and quality' — genuine OEM parts recycled from other vehicles. They offer true factory fit at a lower price and are common for non-structural panels like doors and hoods.
It can, particularly on newer or higher-end vehicles where buyers expect OEM. This ties into diminished value. If resale matters to you, factor it into your parts decision.