It has become such prevalent behavior that we had to write our own policy to protect our shop and customers when they are mandated by the Insurer.
"We are ready to get started on repairs but I wanted you to know
that when dealing with aftermarket parts and fitment we will handle these parts
the same as OEM. In other words we will trim the parts out that need to be and
install them if they do not fit they cannot be returned because they have been
painted. That means you will own them either way. This may also cause
additional delays in the repair process because of parts ordering and other
delays in the approval process to get OEM parts.
It has been our past experience that no matter who the
manufacturer of the aftermarket part is the fit and quality of the part is not
the same as OEM parts. Just inspecting the parts when they are unpackaged is
not enough to insure fitment. Bumper covers and grilles aftermarket will not
fit the same as OEM. The customer has expressed a concern about the quality of
these parts also.
OEM restock, blems or whatever the company calls them are
rejected parts from the manufacturer that were not up to the quality standard
for fitment at the factory. If the customer complains about the fitment after
repairs are completed you will be charged to do the repairs a second time.
There is no restocking and repacking these parts for returns after
installation. We cannot save all the packaging these parts came in sometimes it
is not possible.
If you would like these parts test fit before installation there
will be a charge for R&I of each part that is aftermarket to install remove
and install them."
Sad to say how inferior these knockoff parts really are. In the past we were only required to use them on older cars when there was no other options available. Some Insurance companies are now forcing consumers to have these parts installed on new cars with low mileage on them.
They usually don't fit or function like the new parts from the manufacturer. A great description of this problem here. Aftermarket parts
I have found that Liberty Mutual is the only Insurer that will require the use of OEM parts in your repairs. This make your vehicle as close as possible to Pre-Accident Condition.
We have had some great projects in the shop and we have been very busy! Sorry for no stories but I will hopefully have a little free time to write once in a while!
Bob Winfrey
