Requesting original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts does not automatically mean paying extra. Any addition to your collision repair cost depends on the policy, claim, and insurer’s payment decision. At Royal Collision, we use OEM parts and help you review proposed parts-related charges before approving repairs.
Key Takeaways:
- Separate charges: A parts-price difference is distinct from your policy deductible.
- Request reasons: Ask what supports the insurer’s replacement-parts allowance.
- Review responsibility: Confirm your share of the collision repair cost before parts are ordered.
When Could OEM Parts Increase Your Collision Repair Cost?
An OEM-parts charge may arise when the proposed OEM price exceeds the insurer’s approved parts allowance. That difference needs explanation; a higher OEM price alone does not establish what the customer owes. We recommend reviewing both the proposed charge and the insurer’s written position.
Customers may pay a difference when OEM parts are used instead of available aftermarket alternatives. Policy terms, applicable rules, and the documented repair circumstances matter.
Ask which portion of your collision repair cost the proposed parts difference represents.
How Does a Parts Difference Compare With a Deductible?
A deductible is your policy-assigned share of a covered loss. A proposed OEM-parts difference concerns the amount allowed for replacement components. Both amounts describe potential customer contributions toward the auto body repair cost.
| Question | Policy deductible | Proposed parts difference |
| What creates the amount? | Applicable policy terms | Difference between proposed parts pricing and insurer allowance |
| Does requesting OEM parts create it? | No | Not automatically |
| What should be checked? | Deductible applicable to the claim | Parts pricing, payment explanation, and responsibility |
What Does California Require for Non-OEM Crash Parts?
California requires insurer-specified non-OEM crash parts to meet standards for equivalence to OEM parts. Those standards affect an OEM vs. aftermarket parts payment discussion. A lower component price does not establish that the proposed alternative meets the requirements.
The California Department of Insurance’s replacement-parts notice (on California Code of Regulations, title 10, section 2695.8(g)) states that insurers may not require non-OEM crash parts unless the parts are at least equal to OEM parts in kind, quality, safety, fit, and performance.
Insurers specifying non-OEM crash parts must also pay for modifications needed to complete the repair. The notice does not promise insurer-paid OEM parts for every repair. We review vehicle-specific repair requirements rather than treat every replacement-part disagreement alike.
How Can We Help You Review a Proposed OEM Charge?
At Royal Collision, we prepare repair plans supported by photographs and manufacturer procedures, then communicate those repair needs to insurers. After the insurer responds, we review repair options with you. Parts are ordered after customer approval. Our OEM-parts policy is separate from the insurer’s coverage and payment decisions.
Before accepting a proposed additional charge:
- Identify the component: Ask which replacement part creates the difference.
- Request the basis: Ask the insurer to explain the allowance and relevant policy terms.
- Review the amount: Ask us to separate the proposed parts difference from other customer charges.
Royal Collision advocates for a proper repair, not the cheapest one. A cheap auto body repair quote should not replace a clear explanation of parts and customer expense. Our auto body repair service follows manufacturer procedures. We do not participate in insurer Direct Repair Programs. Our customers experience our commitment to quality. Here is a Google review our customer Arnulfo G. left us: “I …looked for a shop that didn’t work with the insurance companies and fixed cars properly. After calling the shop, Ryan walked me through the steps of what the insurance would do and how he could make sure my truck was repaired properly. The work was perfect, paint matched like it never happened, and he was even able to get the insurance to use all OEM parts. I will be telling all my friends and family about this shop!”
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add OEM-parts coverage for an accident that already happened?
Adding coverage after an accident generally does not cover existing damage. Ask your insurer which policy terms and endorsements applied on the accident date.
Does OEM-parts coverage have restrictions?
Availability and conditions vary by insurer. If coverage is offered, ask about eligible vehicles, covered parts, and restrictions in the endorsement, which is a policy amendment.
What warranty applies to replacement parts?
Replacement parts are covered under the applicable manufacturer’s warranty terms. Ask us about the coverage available for the specific parts used in your repair.
Want to Clarify Your Collision Repair Cost?
Choosing the best collision repair in Riverside, CA for your vehicle starts with specific answers about repairs and personal expense. Contact Royal Collision at (951) 276-4421 or ryan@royalcollisionriverside.com to discuss quality auto body repair and any proposed OEM-parts contribution before approving the work.