Can you keep the replaced parts from an auto repair?

When taking your vehicle to the shop for repairs or service, it’s important to know your rights. Under California’s Automotive Repair Act, you are entitled to: Return of replaced parts – You can request that your vehicle’s replaced parts be returned to you. Be sure to ask for the parts before authorizing the estimate.

Why do insurance companies use aftermarket parts?

Insurance companies write estimates that include aftermarket parts for repairs because they can return a vehicle to pre-loss condition and usually cost less than OEM parts. This helps keep repair costs in check, resulting in lower premiums for all policyholders.

Can insurance companies use recycled parts?

CCR Section 2695.8(g)(1) provides that no insurer shall require the use of non-original equipment manufacture replacement crash parts in the repair of an automobile unless “the parts are at least equal to the original equipment manufacturer parts in terms of kind, quality, safety, fit, and performance” (emphasis added) …

Can you demand OEM parts after an accident?

Yes, you can always request original equipment manufacturer parts after you’ve had an accident. Some insurance companies might make you pay extra for OEM parts. After-market parts are parts made by a manufacturer other than the original manufacturer. Some states have laws concerning OEM parts.

Do insurance companies use used parts?

Both body shops and insurance companies like to use used parts in repairs. They fit great and can be made to look and work as well as new. Used parts are cheaper than OEM parts so that insurance companies can save some money. However, sometimes the parts needed can be hard to find, so they are not always an option.

Does insurance pay for aftermarket parts?

Some insurance policies cover aftermarket parts. Your insurance policy may or may not cover aftermarket parts. Usually, if there’s coverage, it’s only for a low amount. Most standard insurance policies either don’t cover aftermarket parts at all or they pay only a small amount for them.

Can you refuse aftermarket parts?

You shouldn’t have to accept an aftermarket part when the damaged part was original. Do understand that unless your vehicle is brand new that an auto insurance company is allowed to consider the parts on your vehicle as used, which means it doesn’t necessarily have to replace with brand new parts.

What is considered an aftermarket part?

Aftermarket parts (also known as generic parts or non-OEM parts) are made by a manufacturer other than your vehicle’s original manufacturer. Since OEM parts are made by car manufacturers, these parts are held to the same quality assurance standards that are placed on the parts in brand new vehicles.

Can an insurance company force you to use their body shop?

It is illegal for an insurance company to steer, force, require or pressure you into using a particular shop. You should never take your vehicle to a body shop based solely on the recommendation of an insurance company. Not even if it is your own insurance company.

Do aftermarket Parts decrease value?

The use of OEM car parts has little to no effect on the value of your vehicle. Certain aftermarket upgrades, however, can have an effect. Too many upgrades and you may find that you’ve actually lowered the overall value of the vehicle, despite the combined value of the upgrades.

Should I tell my insurance company about modifications?

No, you don’t have to tell your car insurance company your car is modified. And if you have just liability coverage, you may not need to. But if you have comprehensive or collision coverage, the modifications you paid for won’t be covered if you’re involved in an accident.

Are aftermarket parts OK?

An aftermarket part is any part for a vehicle that is not sourced from the car’s maker. If the parts are direct replacement parts, they will not void your car’s warranty. Some aftermarket parts are equal to or better than the OEM part. If the price seems too good to be true, beware of poor quality parts.