When your vehicle is damaged in a collision, navigating insurance claims, repair estimates, and part choices can feel overwhelming. One of the most important, but often misunderstood, questions is whether your insurance will cover OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and repairs. In this post, we’ll break down how insurance typically approaches coverage, what sets OEM parts apart from aftermarket options, and why working with a certified repair shop can make a big difference.
How Insurance Coverage Works for Auto Body Repair
Auto insurance typically includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverages (where applicable). When a covered event (e.g., accident) damages your vehicle, the insurance company will issue an estimate to restore it to its pre-accident condition. That estimate typically covers:
- Labor (repair shop time)
- Materials and parts (up to certain cost levels)
- Paint, refinishing, and related processes
- Permits, waste disposal, and other incidental costs
However, what the insurer is willing to pay for which parts is often the crux of the matter.
Standard Policies & Aftermarket vs OEM Parts
Most auto insurance policies are written to allow the insurer to opt for the more cost-effective repair route. This often means using aftermarket, generic, or equivalent parts instead of factory original parts (OEM). That helps insurers reduce payout costs and, in turn, limit premium increases for all policyholders.
In practice:
- The insurer’s estimate will often assume the use of aftermarket or equivalent parts unless your policy explicitly includes an OEM endorsement.
- If you insist on OEM parts but your policy doesn’t cover them, you may need to pay the cost difference out of pocket.
- Some insurers do offer “original parts replacement” or “OEM coverage” as an add-on or rider, especially for newer vehicles.
So, the short answer is: not always, your specific policy, endorsements, and the repair shop you choose all play a role. To better understand why certified repairs matter, check out our guide on the benefits of choosing an OEM-certified collision repair center.
OEM vs Aftermarket Repairs: Pros & Cons
What Are OEM Parts?
OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer (or its authorized supplier) that built your vehicle. They match the original design, materials, tolerances, and performance.
What Are Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers. They are engineered to be compatible with your vehicle but may differ in design, materials, or tolerances. Quality can vary widely.
Pros & Cons
| Feature | OEM Parts | Aftermarket / Equivalent Parts |
| Fit & precision | Match factory specifications | May require adjustments or modifications |
| Warranty and manufacturer compliance | Helps preserve warranties and safety compliance | Some warranty or safety risks, depending on quality |
| Resale & value | Stronger resale and purity | May draw scrutiny from buyers or mechanics |
| Cost | Typically higher | Generally less expensive |
| Insurance acceptance | May require policy endorsement or extra payment | Often accepted under standard estimates |
Given these trade-offs, many Body shops (like Hyperion Collision Center) use OEM or OEM-equivalent parts when possible, especially on critical components, to maintain safety, structural integrity, and optimal performance. Hyperion’s technicians are OEM-certified across many brands, which ensures they are trained to work with factory-level parts and specifications.
Does Insurance Cover OEM Parts? What You Should Know
1. Your Policy Matters
Check your policy carefully. Ask:
- Does it include original parts replacement / OEM endorsement?
- Are there age or mileage limits (e.g., only for vehicles under 10 years old)?
- Does the policy allow you to request OEM parts specifically?
Many insurers do not automatically include OEM coverage, so adding it to your policy (if available) can be crucial, especially for newer or high-value vehicles.
2. Requesting OEM Parts Upfront Helps
If you desire OEM parts, make that clear to both your insurance provider and your chosen repair shop at the outset. Some insurers may require you to explicitly request it, and some repair shops (especially certified ones) can negotiate or advocate on your behalf.
If OEM parts are refused by your insurer, you can often choose to accept their estimate using aftermarket parts or pay the cost difference yourself.
3. Availability & Technical Constraints
On older vehicles or models with limited production, certain OEM parts may not be available, forcing shops to use aftermarket or reconditioned parts.
Also, not all insurers or states are legally required to mandate OEM parts. Even when related laws exist, they often require disclosure rather than enforcement of purely OEM-only repairs.
4. Insurance Cost Control Is a Driving Factor
Insurers’ default preference for aftermarket parts is largely a cost-control strategy. By limiting repair costs, they can keep premiums lower for all policyholders.
From the insurer’s perspective, using a lower-cost, compatible part that restores function is sufficient from a valuation perspective, even if it’s not a perfect match.
The Insurance Advantage of Choosing a Certified Repair Shop
When filing an insurance claim, the repair shop you select can directly influence what’s covered and the quality of the work performed. Certified collision centers follow manufacturer standards, which not only ensures safer, factory-level repairs but also strengthens your case for OEM parts with insurers.
Insurance companies often weigh whether repairs are done at a certified facility when determining coverage for OEM versus aftermarket parts. By choosing a certified shop, you’re better positioned to receive approval for higher-quality parts and workmanship.
In addition, certified repair centers typically provide transparent estimates, clear communication with insurers, and warranties that protect your investment long after the claim is closed. This combination of quality and advocacy gives you a stronger foundation when dealing with your insurance provider.
Tips to Help You Advocate for OEM Coverage
- Review your policy carefully, look for OEM or parts replacement endorsements.
- Talk to your insurer ahead of time, ask if OEM parts are covered, under what conditions, and how to request them.
- Notify your repair shop early about your preference for OEM parts.
- Request the estimate breakdown, ensure you understand which parts are designated as OEM, aftermarket, or reconditioned.
- Be ready to cover the difference, if the insurer allows aftermarket only, you may pay the gap for OEM.
- Keep good documentation, estimates, parts invoices, communications with insurer and shop.
- If denied, escalate thoughtfully, submit appeals or request reconsideration if you believe OEM parts are justified for safety or performance.
By learning the basics of how insurers handle claims, what coverage typically applies, and why certified collision centers matter, you’ll be better prepared to ask the right questions and advocate for your vehicle’s long-term safety.
For drivers who want a deeper look at the process, our detailed guide on Insurance Claims Assistance is a great place to start.
