If your Toyota requires body repairs, it's essential to ensure that only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are used. While you might consider ordering OEM parts yourself and doing the work at home, body repair is a complex process that demands professional skill and precision. Attempting it on your own can lead to poor results and potential safety issues. For the best outcome, it's always wise to take your vehicle to a certified body shop.
However, many body shops opt for aftermarket parts due to their lower cost. This can be a concern, especially when it comes to quality and safety. But don't worry—there are ways to ensure your car gets the best possible repair. Here's how you can make sure your body shop uses OEM parts.
**Why OEM Auto Body Parts Are Superior to Aftermarket Options**
Like other critical components such as modulator valves or oxygen sensors, auto body parts must be durable and reliable. Many people mistakenly believe that body parts are purely cosmetic, but this isn’t true. In fact, several body components play a crucial role in vehicle safety. For example, the hood is engineered to crumple and fold during a collision, reducing injury risk. These parts undergo extensive crash testing before being approved for use.
That’s why choosing cheaper aftermarket parts can be risky. They may not meet the same safety standards, and their fit and finish can vary significantly. OEM parts, on the other hand, are designed specifically for your Toyota model and offer:
- Reliable performance in case of an accident
- High-quality materials that match factory specifications
- Perfect fit and finish
- A 12-month, unlimited-mile warranty from Toyota
So, if your Toyota needs body work, it’s worth insisting on OEM parts. Here are three steps to help you achieve that.
**1. Communicate Your Preference Clearly to the Body Shop**
The first step is to let the body shop know that you want only OEM parts used on your Toyota. Be clear and direct. However, keep in mind that some shops may be restricted by insurance policies. If they say they can’t use OEM parts, ask them why and then contact your insurance company directly.
**2. Reach Out to Your Insurance Provider**
If your body shop says they can’t use OEM parts because of your insurance, don’t accept that as a final answer. Call your insurance company and express your concerns. Ask whether they’ll cover the cost of OEM parts. In many cases, especially with newer and common models, they may agree to cover the cost—but they might charge an extra fee for this coverage.
**3. Offer to Cover the Additional Cost**
If your insurance company refuses to pay for OEM parts, you can still choose them by covering the price difference. The insurance company will pay for the aftermarket parts, but you can choose to pay the extra amount to get genuine OEM parts instead. This gives you more control over the quality of the repair.
If you're looking for a cost-effective way to get OEM parts, consider purchasing them online through a trusted supplier. We offer wholesale pricing, which can save you up to 30% compared to retail prices. Our catalog includes a wide range of genuine OEM Toyota body parts. To make the process easier, provide the correct part numbers for your model ahead of time.
To find the right part numbers, simply look up your Toyota model in our online catalog.
Written by Jason Lancaster
Valve
J.B Machinery (Ningbo) Co., Ltd. , https://www.jbcastings.com