When a vehicle owner needs Car Repair Services in Gretna NE for body work, the mechanics have the choice of using aftermarket parts or parts from the original manufacturer. Those components are known as original equipment manufacturer, or OEM. In contrast, aftermarket parts come from manufacturing facilities not associated with the vehicle manufacturer. Not all vehicle owners care one way or the other, but some are very particular. They only want OEM parts because they know these components tend to be of significantly higher quality and last longer.
Insurance companies commonly are responsible for payment when it comes to vehicle body damage. They encourage garages to use aftermarket parts so repair costs are lower. Some require the cheaper parts or require the owner to pay the difference. That typically means their policyholders can’t have the vehicle fixed at a dealership since the dealership only uses OEM parts.
At a facility such as B Street Collision Center, the mechanics normally use OEM parts, but they will make exceptions for customers who ask for aftermarket components. In some instances, those vehicle owners don’t have any choice. If their insurer demands the lower-cost parts, the owners may not be able to afford the balance, especially if the auto body damage is extensive. The mechanics make sure they use very high-quality aftermarket items in this case, and they do not skimp. When they send the estimate or invoice to the insurer, the adjusters can verify that aftermarket items were, indeed, used. Because of the quality concerns, the price may be a bit higher than the adjuster has been accustomed to seeing.
Experts, like those at Edmunds, recommend that owners choose OEM parts for auto body Car Repair Services in Gretna NE. That assures a precise fit for doors, panels, and other items. Edmunds even notes that aftermarket body parts may not be quite as safe as their OEM competitors. Vehicle owners may want to do a little research on which aftermarket parts are known for top quality while still saving the owner some money, or they can choose a mechanic they trust to help them with the decision.
