Three kinds of parts
When Mashore Autobody or any shop writes an estimate, each part is usually one of three kinds:
- Original (OEM). Made by or for the car's manufacturer, the same as the part that came on the car.
- Aftermarket. Made by another company as a replacement. Quality ranges from very good to poor.
- Used or recycled. A real original part taken from another vehicle.
Why it matters
Fit, finish and how a part behaves in a crash can differ between kinds. A shop and your insurance company may also disagree about which kind a repair should use, because the price differs.
Questions to ask any shop
Ask the shop these before you agree to a repair:
- Which kind of part is each one on my estimate?
- Can I ask for original parts, and what would that cost?
- Will the car be repaired to the maker's procedures?
- What does the warranty cover?
Next step
Bring your estimate to us at 44 Sycamore Ave, Suite A in Brentwood or call (925) 516-1930, and we will tell you honestly how ours compares. See our collision repair page or how to reach us.