This guide covers OEM vs aftermarket parts for Calgary drivers, from the experts at MG Collision Centre.
Quick answer: OEM parts are made by or for your vehicle’s manufacturer and match the original fit, materials and safety performance. Aftermarket parts are made by third parties and can cost less, but quality and fit vary. For structural, safety and sensor-related parts, OEM is usually the safest choice.
When your car is repaired after a collision, the parts used matter as much as the workmanship. Here is a plain-language comparison of the main part types and how to make sure your vehicle is repaired correctly.
What Are OEM Parts?
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These parts are made by your vehicle’s manufacturer, or by the supplier that builds them for the factory. They are designed to the exact specifications of your vehicle, including thickness, materials, mounting points and crash performance.
What Are Aftermarket Parts?
Aftermarket parts are produced by companies other than the vehicle manufacturer. Some are good quality; others may fit poorly, use thinner metal or behave differently in a crash. They are often cheaper, which is why some insurance estimates include them.
What About Used or Recycled Parts?
Recycled OEM parts come from salvage vehicles. They are original parts, but their condition varies. They can be a reasonable choice for some cosmetic components on older vehicles when inspected carefully.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: Side-by-Side
- Fit: OEM parts are designed for your exact model; aftermarket fit can vary and may cause uneven gaps.
- Safety: bumper reinforcements, crumple zones and structural parts are engineered for crash energy management. OEM parts preserve that design.
- Sensors and cameras: modern bumpers and grilles hold radar and parking sensors. Brackets and materials must be correct for these systems to work.
- Warranty: OEM parts generally carry the manufacturer’s parts warranty.
- Cost: aftermarket parts usually cost less up front.
- Resale value: buyers and dealers often view OEM repairs more favourably.
Does Insurance Pay for OEM Parts?
It depends on your policy, the age of your vehicle and your insurer’s guidelines. Some policies offer OEM parts coverage or endorsements. Ask your insurer before you need it, and ask your shop to note any parts they recommend upgrading for safety or fit.
Our Approach at MG Collision Centre
We use OEM parts to protect the fit, safety and value of your vehicle, and we pair them with computerized paint matching so the finished repair blends in perfectly. Every collision repair is backed by our lifetime warranty. We repair all makes and models, including hybrids and EVs.
Questions to Ask Before Your Repair
- Which parts on my estimate are OEM, aftermarket or recycled?
- Are any safety or sensor-related parts non-OEM?
- Will the repair follow the manufacturer’s repair procedures?
- What warranty covers the parts and the labour?
Key Takeaways
- The OEM vs aftermarket parts choice affects fit, safety and resale value.
- For structural and sensor parts, OEM vs aftermarket parts is not a close call — OEM is safest.
- Ask your shop to list OEM vs aftermarket parts on your estimate.
OEM vs aftermarket parts: Frequently Asked Questions
Are aftermarket parts safe?
Some are, but quality varies. For structural parts, airbags-related components and sensor mounts, OEM parts are the safest choice.
Can I request OEM parts on my insurance claim?
You can ask. Coverage depends on your policy and insurer guidelines, and some policies offer OEM parts endorsements.
Do OEM parts affect resale value?
A vehicle repaired with OEM parts is generally viewed more favourably by buyers and dealers.
Does MG Collision Centre use OEM parts?
Yes. We use OEM parts to keep the correct fit, safety performance and value of your vehicle.
Helpful resource: Insurance Bureau of Canada.
Get Your Free Estimate at MG Collision Centre
MG Collision Centre has served Calgary drivers for more than 15 years. We work with all major insurance companies, use OEM parts, match paint with computerized colour technology, arrange rental vehicles and back our collision repairs with a lifetime warranty. Call +1 (587) 453-3333, email info@mgcollisioncentre.com, or visit us at 933B 48 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2A7 (Monday to Friday 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM–4:30 PM). Request your free estimate online.
