After a collision, one of the most critical decisions isn’t just about when to get your car fixed or which shop to trust—it’s about what kind of parts are used to repair it. The choice between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket parts can affect everything from how well your vehicle runs to how it protects you in the next crash. And while cost often dominates the conversation, the real cost may show up later, when it matters most.
The general public may not know much about vehicle design and collision safety, so at Newark Autobody, we work hard to help customers make informed decisions—because we believe in doing the job right, not just getting it done.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: What’s the Real Difference?
OEM parts are produced by your vehicle’s manufacturer—or a certified supplier—to match the exact specifications of the parts originally used to build your car. They’re designed to integrate with your vehicle’s frame, sensors, and safety systems, and come with quality guarantees.
Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, are made by third-party companies with varying standards. They’re intended to work across a range of makes and models, which means they’re rarely a perfect fit. Some are high quality. Others are far from it.
As J.D. Power explains, “OEM parts offer greater assurance of quality… because they are the same as the parts on new cars and offer the same level of performance.”
Why Fit and Function Matter
A slightly misaligned bumper might seem like a cosmetic issue. But modern vehicles are engineered to absorb and redirect impact force in specific ways, often through components like bumpers, hoods, and door panels. Even a few millimeters of difference in thickness or shape can affect how your car performs in a crash.
“Aftermarket body panels may not fit properly or have proper crumple zones for crash safety,” Edmunds warns. They also often skip manufacturer-standard testing, meaning you won’t know how they’ll perform until it’s too late.
A Real-Life Example: The Garage Sale Door
Not long ago, one of our regulars—a veteran eligible for our 10% discount—came in after a low-speed side collision. He wanted to save some money and had found a used door at a garage sale that seemed to match his make and model. It looked solid, the paint wasn’t bad, and it had the handle and trim still attached.
But once we opened it up, we found bent inner supports, missing welds, and evidence of heat warping. The part hadn’t been inspected or refurbished. If we had installed it and he were hit again—especially from the side—it could’ve buckled inward instead of protecting him.
He listened, weighed the options, and chose an OEM door. With his veteran discount and our price-match policy, we made it work. Most importantly, he drove away with a door that would do its job in a crash—not just look the part.
The Safety System Chain Reaction
One weak link in your vehicle’s safety system can compromise the whole chain. Sensors buried behind the bumper, cameras embedded in side mirrors, radar hidden under the hood—all depend on precise placement and alignment.
An aftermarket bumper cover that’s just a little off might interfere with:
- Airbag deployment timing
- Lane-departure warnings
- Pedestrian detection or automatic braking
According to NerdWallet, “Modern cars rely on intricate systems of sensors and electronics. OEM parts ensure that those systems continue to work as intended.”
Aftermarket parts may not be calibrated to account for these systems—and that’s a risk we’re not comfortable passing on to our customers.
The Insurance Question
Many insurance companies push aftermarket parts in estimates to cut costs. And while that might save money on paper, it’s not always in your best interest.
At Newark Autobody, we:
- Advocate for OEM parts in safety-critical areas
- Explain the tradeoffs when cost is a concern
- Work with insurance directly to justify upgrades when possible
- Source certified OEM-refurbished parts when budgets are tight
According to J.D. Power, OEM parts cost about 60% more on average than aftermarket parts. But they also come with warranties, known quality, and no guessing games.
Value Beyond the Price Tag
It’s tempting to prioritize savings after an accident. We get it. But when a $300 difference could mean the airbag doesn’t deploy fast enough—or that a crash totals your car instead of protecting it—we think the choice is clear.
That’s why we build our business around:
- OEM and certified refurbished parts
- Transparent communication
- A lifetime workmanship guarantee (excluding rust)
- Discounts for veterans and price-matching when available
We’re not a chain. We’re a family-owned, veteran-owned shop that fights for our customers—even when the insurer pushes back.
Your Car, Your Call—But Make It an Informed One
Choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts isn’t just about what your car looks like when it’s done—it’s about how well it protects you and your family next time.
Not all aftermarket parts are bad. Some are well-made and appropriate for non-structural repairs. But unless you know exactly what you’re getting—and how it affects your vehicle’s crash performance—you’re taking a risk.
At Newark Autobody, we’ll never make that decision for you. But we will make sure you understand the stakes and know what you’re getting. Because we don’t just fix cars—we protect the people who use them.
Ohio Drivers: Contact Newark Autobody for Your Winter Car Autobody maintenance
Newark Autobody Collision and Glass
977 Mount Vernon Road
Newark, Ohio 43055
Phone: (740) 899-4111
Fax: (740) 888-3500