Knowing which replacement parts are going on your car
Insight from a collision repair specialist and an insurance appraiser
Your repair estimate may list parts as “new,” “aftermarket,” “recycled” or “reconditioned.” Each term means something different. A new part may be made by the vehicle maker or by another company. A recycled part was taken from another vehicle. A rebuilt part has been restored. Before you assume a part matches the one coming off, ask exactly which part the shop plans to use. [1, 2]
Match each part to the repair
For each major part, ask whether it fits your vehicle’s year, model, trim and safety features. Find out whether the maker calls for a specific part or procedure in that spot. Those questions carry the most weight near cameras, sensors, structural parts and the restraints that protect people inside. The shop should explain how the part will be fitted, tested and documented. [2, 3]
Sort out price and coverage
An insurer may suggest a part that isn’t original or one that’s recycled. If you’d rather have a different part, ask what your policy covers. Also ask whether you’d owe the difference in price. [1, 2]
Don’t assume that talking it over changed the estimate. Ask for the updated part description and cost in writing. Disclosure rules vary by state, so check with your local insurance or repair regulator if needed. [1, 2]
Compare the invoice to the estimate
When you pick up the car, check the invoice against the approved estimate. Ask which parts were really installed. Find out what warranties cover the part and the labor. If a listed part changed during the repair, ask for the supplement and the reason. Keep these papers with the car’s service records. [1, 2]
Ask the shop about each part
- Who made this part, and was it used before?
- Does the vehicle maker have instructions for this repair?
- What warranty covers the part and the work to install it?
Trace every part's source
Mark each replacement part on the estimate. Ask where each one comes from. [1]
Sources and further reading
- 1Federal Trade Commission, auto repair parts
- 2Washington insurance commissioner, repair parts in a claim
- 3I-CAR, driver assistance repair diagnostics
This general advice comes from collision repair and insurance appraisal experts. Parts rules, policy coverage and vehicle maker procedures vary. Get the type of part and the reason for it in writing.
Keep learning
Safe Driving Resource Center
Guides, self-checks and articles for drivers, parents of new drivers, and families recovering after a crash.
