Does Caliber Collision Use OEM Parts? | Factory Spec Fix

Caliber Collision’s use of OEM parts depends on your insurance policy, vehicle age, and specific repair needs, often prioritizing safety and fit.

Getting your car repaired after a ding or a major collision can feel like navigating a maze. One of the biggest questions we hear in the shop is about the parts used. You want your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition, running safely and reliably.

Understanding the different types of parts available is the first step. It helps you talk confidently with your repair shop and insurance company. Let’s break down what Caliber Collision, a major player in the repair world, typically does regarding parts.

Understanding Parts: OEM, Aftermarket, and Salvage

When your vehicle needs new components, shops generally have three main categories of parts to choose from. Each has its own characteristics for quality, fit, and cost.

Knowing these distinctions helps you make choices for your car’s longevity and safety.

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Parts

These are parts made by your car’s original manufacturer. They are identical to the components installed when your vehicle was first built.

OEM parts guarantee an exact fit and finish. They meet the manufacturer’s precise specifications for performance and safety.

Using OEM parts often preserves your vehicle’s factory warranty. They are generally the most expensive option.

Aftermarket Parts (Non-OEM)

Aftermarket parts are produced by companies other than your car’s original manufacturer. These parts are designed to function similarly to OEM components.

Quality can vary significantly among aftermarket manufacturers. Some aftermarket parts are certified for quality, like those from CAPA (Certified Automotive Parts Association).

Aftermarket parts are typically more affordable than OEM parts. They offer a cost-effective repair solution in many situations.

Recycled (Salvage or Used) Parts

Recycled parts are original OEM components removed from another vehicle. These parts come from cars that are no longer roadworthy, often due to severe damage.

They are inspected and deemed usable for repair. They retain their OEM quality and fit, as they were originally installed by the manufacturer.

Recycled parts are usually the least expensive option. Their availability depends on the specific part and vehicle model.

Does Caliber Collision Use OEM Parts? Navigating Your Repair Options

Caliber Collision, like most reputable body shops, aims to repair your vehicle safely and effectively. Their part selection process often involves several factors.

The primary drivers are your insurance policy, the type of damage, and your vehicle’s age.

Insurance Policy Directives

Your insurance carrier’s policy language usually dictates the type of parts approved for your repair. Many policies specify “like kind and quality” parts.

This phrase often allows for the use of aftermarket or recycled parts if they meet certain standards. Insurance companies often prefer non-OEM parts due to lower costs.

Caliber Collision works directly with your insurance company. They follow the approved repair plan, which includes the specified part types.

Customer Choice and Safety

While insurance plays a major role, you, as the vehicle owner, have a say. You can request OEM parts for your repair.

Be prepared that requesting OEM parts might mean paying the cost difference yourself. This gap covers the price difference between OEM and the insurer-approved part.

Caliber Collision prioritizes safety in all repairs. They will use parts that restore your vehicle’s structural integrity and safety features.

State Regulations

Some states have regulations regarding the use of aftermarket parts. These rules can dictate disclosure requirements or even restrict aftermarket part use for certain repairs or vehicle ages.

For instance, some states require written consent before non-OEM parts are used. Always check your state’s specific consumer protection laws.

Shops like Caliber Collision must comply with all applicable state and federal regulations.

The Role of Insurance in Part Selection

Your insurance policy is the biggest factor in determining which parts get approved for your car’s repair. Understanding your coverage helps manage expectations.

Different types of policies and clauses directly influence the repair shop’s options.

“Like Kind and Quality” Clauses

Most standard collision policies include a “like kind and quality” clause. This means the insurer will pay for parts that are comparable in performance and durability to the original.

This clause often permits the use of certified aftermarket or recycled OEM parts. The goal is to restore your vehicle without necessarily using brand-new OEM components.

Insurance adjusters assess the damage and specify the approved part types based on these policy terms.

OEM Endorsements

Some insurance policies offer an “OEM endorsement” or “OEM parts rider.” This optional coverage ensures that only OEM parts are used in a collision repair.

Adding an OEM endorsement typically increases your premium. It provides the assurance of factory-original components for all repairs covered by the endorsement.

If you have this endorsement, your insurer is contractually obligated to approve OEM parts.

Negotiating for OEM Parts

Even without an OEM endorsement, you can often negotiate with your insurance company. Presenting a strong case for OEM parts, especially for safety-critical components, can be effective.

Your repair shop can sometimes assist by submitting a “supplement” request to the insurer. This document details why OEM parts are necessary for a proper repair.

Open communication with both your insurer and Caliber Collision is key during this process.

Here’s a quick look at how insurance types often influence part selection:

Insurance Policy Type	Typical Part Preference	Owner Contribution Likely
Standard Collision (No OEM Endorsement)	Aftermarket, Recycled, or OEM (if no suitable alternative)	Possible for OEM upgrade
Collision with OEM Endorsement	OEM	No, if covered by policy
Basic Liability	Not applicable (covers other’s vehicle)	Yes, for own vehicle repair

When OEM Parts Are Essential (or Highly Recommended)

While cost is a factor, certain components truly benefit from or even demand OEM parts. These are often related to your vehicle’s core safety and operational systems.

Prioritizing OEM in these areas ensures your vehicle performs as intended by the manufacturer.

Structural and Safety Components

Parts that protect occupants in a crash, like frame rails, crumple zones, and airbag sensors, are vital. OEM parts ensure these components perform precisely as designed.

Using non-OEM structural parts can compromise crash performance. This might impact your vehicle’s ability to absorb energy or protect passengers in a subsequent accident.

Airbag systems and their associated sensors are calibrated to work with specific OEM components. Any deviation can lead to malfunction.

Newer Vehicles and Warranty Preservation

For vehicles still under the manufacturer’s factory warranty, using OEM parts helps maintain that warranty. Some manufacturers may dispute warranty claims if non-OEM parts are involved in a related repair.

This is particularly true for complex electronic systems and powertrain components. The precise fit and function of OEM parts prevent unforeseen issues.

Always check your vehicle’s warranty terms regarding collision repairs and part types.

Exterior Panels and Aesthetics

For exterior body panels like fenders, hoods, and doors, OEM parts offer the best fit and finish. They align perfectly with adjacent panels, maintaining original body lines.

Aftermarket panels can sometimes require more labor to achieve a proper fit. This extra work might not be covered by your insurer, leading to extra costs or a less-than-perfect appearance.

OEM parts also ensure consistent material quality, which is important for paint adhesion and long-term durability.

Consider these recommendations for specific component types:

1. Structural Frame/Unibody: Always OEM. Critical for crash integrity.
2. Airbag Sensors/Modules: Always OEM. Safety system precision is paramount.
3. Suspension/Steering Components: Highly recommended OEM. Affects handling and safety.
4. Exterior Body Panels (Newer Vehicles): Recommended OEM for fit, finish, and warranty.
5. Headlights/Taillights (Complex Assemblies): Recommended OEM for beam pattern and electronic integration.

Your Rights and Choices as a Vehicle Owner

As the owner, you have significant rights when it comes to your vehicle’s repair. Being informed allows you to advocate effectively for your preferences.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarity throughout the repair process.

Reviewing Your Repair Estimate

Always get a detailed written estimate from Caliber Collision. This document should clearly list every part being replaced, specifying if it’s OEM, aftermarket, or recycled.

If the estimate lists non-OEM parts and you prefer OEM, discuss this immediately. Understand the cost difference and how your insurance policy applies.

A thorough review helps prevent surprises later on.

Communicating with Caliber Collision and Your Insurer

Maintain open lines of communication with both your repair shop and your insurance adjuster. Clearly state your preferences for OEM parts early in the process.

Document all conversations, including dates, names, and key decisions. This record can be helpful if any disputes arise.

Your repair shop, like Caliber, can be your advocate. They can explain the benefits of OEM parts to your insurer, especially for complex or safety-related repairs.

Understanding State Consumer Protections

Many states have consumer protection laws governing auto repairs. These laws often cover disclosure requirements for part types, warranty information, and your right to choose a repair shop.

For example, some states require shops to notify you if non-OEM parts are used. Others may mandate a specific warranty on replacement parts.

Familiarize yourself with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or consumer affairs office guidelines. This knowledge empowers you.

You have the right to select any repair shop you trust. Your insurance company cannot force you to use a specific facility.

This choice extends to discussing part preferences directly with your chosen shop.

Ultimately, the goal is a safe, reliable repair that meets your expectations. Being proactive and informed makes all the difference.

Does Caliber Collision Use OEM Parts? — FAQs

Can I specifically request OEM parts at Caliber Collision?

Yes, you absolutely can request OEM parts when having your vehicle repaired at Caliber Collision. Your ability to get them often depends on your insurance policy’s coverage. If your policy doesn’t cover OEM parts, you may need to pay the cost difference out of pocket.

What does “like kind and quality” mean for my car repair?

“Like kind and quality” is an insurance term meaning the replacement parts must be comparable in terms of fit, quality, and performance to the original components. This often allows insurers to approve certified aftermarket or recycled OEM parts. The aim is to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition without necessarily using brand-new OEM parts.

How do I know if Caliber Collision used OEM parts on my vehicle?

Your repair estimate and final invoice from Caliber Collision should clearly specify the type of parts used for each replacement. Look for designations like “OEM,” “Aftermarket,” or “Recycled.” If you have any doubts, ask the shop manager to show you the parts or provide documentation of their origin.

Does using aftermarket parts void my car’s warranty?

Generally, using aftermarket parts for collision repair does not void your entire new car warranty. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers by preventing manufacturers from voiding warranties solely due to the use of non-OEM parts. However, if an aftermarket part directly causes a failure or damage to another component, the manufacturer might deny a warranty claim for that specific issue.

What if my insurance company won’t approve OEM parts?

If your insurance company won’t approve OEM parts, you have a few options. You can pay the difference between the approved aftermarket part and the OEM part yourself. You can also appeal their decision, especially if safety or proper function is a concern, sometimes with the help of your repair shop. Consider discussing your policy with your agent to add an OEM endorsement for future incidents.