Repair Parts – Do You Know What You Are Getting?
When you have a vehicle that needs repair, do you typically take it into a collision facility or a body shop and ask for an estimate? That’s what most folks do. But if you really want to be sure you get the best result, you may want to ask questions about the parts they are planning to use.
And we’re not just talking about fenders and bumpers, but the tires, brakes and battery – all the parts that go into a used car or truck repair. Don’t take their expertise for granted, ask about the materials that go into the job.
You may be surprised at what they plan to use.
Whether or not you are covered by insurance, you have the right to choose the quality of each piece. You’ll want to have a discussion with your repair facility about which of the following three types they are planning to use. Here are the three types:
- OEM – Original Equipment Manufacturer
- LKQ – Like Kind and Quality
- After Market
There is an appropriate time to use each of the types.
Whenever possible, it is best for the integrity of the vehicle to use an OEM part. This is the manufacturer’s brand and was designed specifically for your car, truck or SUV. When you use an OEM part, your vehicle will work more efficiently and last longer. For instance, if you’ve got a Ford Mustang, Edge or Transit you want the parts that were created for that vehicle.
The LKQ (Like Kind and Quality) parts come from the salvage yard. This means they are used. They’ve been on a car or truck before and have been in an accident or a vehicle that has been scrapped for some reason. An LKQ is the best way to go when the manufacture doesn’t make that part any more.
After Market parts are usually made by off-shore companies in countries like Mexico, Korea and China. Since they can’t make an exact duplicate, you’ll find that the fit and finish are not the same. While the price may be less, the appearance and sustainability will typically not match the original.
When you work with a dealership’s Collision Center or Body Shop such as Charlotte County Ford you get parts from the original equipment manufacturer.
The thing to remember is to let an expert talk to you, to examine your problem and make experienced recommendations. You may wish to turn to a dealership. They are the most informed about how vehicles are designed and what parts will give you overall optimum performance.
By Don Gasgarth