What is OEM insurance?
Updated Blog 1/8/23:
When it comes to securing the right auto insurance policy, many factors demand your consideration. One crucial aspect often overlooked is the choice between Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and aftermarket parts. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the significance of OEM insurance, shedding light on its benefits, alternatives, and how it can impact your overall auto insurance experience.
Understanding OEM Insurance
OEM insurance stands as a vital add-on to your standard auto insurance policy. It ensures that, in the unfortunate event of an accident, only OEM parts will be used to restore your vehicle. These parts are specifically crafted by your car's manufacturer, adhering to stringent safety and quality standards. Opting for OEM insurance provides a guarantee that your car will be brought back to its factory specifications, maintaining its original integrity.
Requesting OEM Parts After an Accident
In the aftermath of a car accident, the importance of pre-requesting OEM parts cannot be overstated. If your insurance policy doesn't automatically cover OEM parts, taking proactive steps becomes crucial. In such cases, reputable establishments like Robert's CARSTAR Collision and Repair offer solutions. Options such as covering the price difference between aftermarket and OEM parts ensure that you can prioritize the use of genuine components in your vehicle's repair.
Alternative Parts: A Closer Look
Understanding the concept of alternative parts is paramount in making informed decisions about your insurance coverage. These alternatives often come in two forms: used parts salvaged from accident vehicles and aftermarket parts produced in alternative factories. While insurance carriers favor aftermarket parts to keep repair costs competitive, it's essential to recognize potential drawbacks, such as compromised integrity or appearance.
The Role of Aftermarket Parts in Affordability
Insurance carriers opt for aftermarket parts to maintain affordability for policyholders. The use of certified aftermarket parts helps control automotive repair costs, preventing a significant spike in insurance premiums. However, consumers should weigh the cost savings against potential compromises in the quality and performance of their vehicle.
Not All Policies Include OEM Coverage
When shopping for auto insurance, it's crucial to inquire about OEM coverage options. Not all carriers provide OEM supplemental insurance, making it imperative to assess this aspect before committing to a policy. Keep in mind that OEM coverage often comes with an additional fee, emphasizing the need to weigh the value it brings to your peace of mind and the integrity of your vehicle.
Considerations for Older Vehicles
For owners of older vehicles, securing OEM parts might pose a challenge. In such cases, aftermarket parts may become the only viable option for repairs. It's essential to factor in the availability of OEM parts when deciding on the best insurance coverage for your aging vehicle.
Making Informed Choices
In conclusion, navigating the intricacies of auto insurance requires a holistic understanding of OEM coverage and its alternatives. As you embark on the journey of securing the right policy, consider your priorities and the long-term impact on your vehicle's performance and appearance. Whether you prioritize the use of OEM parts or explore alternatives, the key lies in making informed choices that align with your preferences and values. We strive to be your one-stop collision repair shop, and we work hard to provide you with an outstanding customer service experience! Make your appointment today! We're located at 234 Ramona Ave, Monterey, CA. 93940. We look forward to your visit!
Blog from 2020:
When shopping for an auto insurance policy, it is essential to ask yourself if OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are non-negotiable. If you feel strongly about having your car repaired with OEM parts, then it will be necessary for you to shop for OEM insurance.
OEM insurance is additional coverage on your car that is an add on to your insurance policy. It ensures that OEM parts will be used to repair your vehicle rather than aftermarket parts. You then have a guarantee that your car is restored to factory specifications with parts specifically made and engineered by your auto manufacturer for your specific vehicle. Each part has been through a rigorous safety and quality-check process by your vehicle's manufacturer.
If you have been in a car accident, be sure to request OEM parts in advance. If your insurance policy does not cover OEM parts and using them for your vehicle repair is essential to you, Robert's CARSTAR Collision and repair will work with you. Options such as covering the difference out-of-pocket between the aftermarket part prices your insurance is willing to pay and the factory's rates are available if you determine that OEM parts are important.
What are alternative parts? They are often used parts, which are removed from a car that has been in an accident; aftermarket parts (also called alternative parts) are new parts made in an alternative factory. These can be second-rate, which can potentially impact the integrity or looks of your car.
Why are aftermarket parts commonly used? Insurance carriers try to keep rates affordable for everyone. By using certified aftermarket parts, automotive repair costs are more competitive. Insurance rates would cost a lot more if they only covered OEM parts.
Not all insurance carriers offer OEM supplemental insurance. When shopping for auto insurance, be sure to ask your agent questions about OEM insurance before deciding on a carrier if OEM parts are a non-negotiable item for you. Most OEM policies come at an additional fee within your auto policy; it is not part of a standard auto insurance policy. Remember, with older vehicles it can be impossible to get OEM parts, in which case, aftermarket parts may be your only option for repairs.
If you have been in a collision and are looking for help navigating your insurance policy, bring it into CARSTAR Robert's Auto Repair. Our skilled technicians will make sure you have the best possible parts for your repair. We are here for all of your auto repair and maintenance services, auto body repair, tire needs, or full auto detailing. We strive to be your one-stop auto shop, and we work hard to provide you with an outstanding customer service experience! Make your appointment today! We're located at 234 Ramona Ave, Monterey, CA. 93940. We look forward to your visit!