Certainly using aftermarket parts does have the savings advantage. Aftermarket parts are less expensive than replacing the damaged area with an original equipment manufacturer part. In return, if the insurance company saves money, then the consumer will save too. This is especially the case for older cars since aftermarket parts are plentiful for older vehicles. So, what does a consumer do if they feel they have to balance safety with savings?
Since the majority of insurance companies do use aftermarket parts for collision repairs, if a consumer is concerned about this practice there are steps the consumer can take to be aware and to make a decision if they want aftermarket parts used on their vehicle:
1.The first step for the consumer is to check with their insurance company to determine what policies are in place for the use of aftermarket parts.
2.Next, one can check with their state insurance commissioner to determine if the insurance company is following state policies on the use of aftermarket parts.
3.Then, it is simply a matter of choice. If a consumer finds that the insurance company uses aftermarket parts at the insurance company's discretion and the consumer has concerns then they can try to simply ask that OEM parts are used. If the insurance company denies the request then the alternative would be to shop around for an insurance company that has an aftermarket crash parts policy that is more desirable.
