Original Parts Replacement Coverage is an optional add-on that ensures your car is repaired with original manufacturer (OEM) parts instead of cheaper aftermarket parts. In a bustling city like Chicago, this coverage guarantees that any covered accident repairs use the exact parts your vehicle was built with, preserving its safety and value. Standard auto policies often default to aftermarket parts, but OEM coverage bridges that gap for peace of mind. For personalized advice or a quick quote, call Insure on the Spot in Chicago at 773-202-5060 today to see how OEM parts coverage can keep your ride running like new.
What Does Original Parts Replacement Coverage Mean for Chicago Drivers?
Original Parts Replacement coverage (also known as OEM coverage) means your insurance will pay for genuine factory parts if your car needs repairs after a covered accident. Without this coverage, Illinois insurers can use aftermarket parts (made by third-party manufacturers) to fix your vehicle. Illinois law requires that any non-OEM parts used must be disclosed and equal in quality to OEM parts, but many Chicago drivers still prefer authentic parts for their cars. By adding OEM coverage, you ensure the body shop uses original parts from the car’s manufacturer, so your vehicle stays 100% original after repairs.
Living in Chicago, where over 112,000 car crashes were reported in 2024, having the right coverage is crucial. OEM parts are designed specifically for your vehicle’s make and model, meaning they fit perfectly and uphold the car’s original safety standards. This is especially important on Chicago’s busy streets and expressways – if you’re in a collision on the Dan Ryan or navigating winter potholes, you’ll want repairs that restore your car to its exact pre-accident condition. With OEM parts, your car’s performance and structural integrity remain as the manufacturer intended, which can also help maintain your vehicle’s resale value.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts: Key Differences for Illinois Drivers
When getting your car repaired, it’s essential to understand the differences between OEM parts and aftermarket parts. Here’s a quick comparison for Illinois drivers:
| OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts | Aftermarket Parts |
| Made by your car’s manufacturer (same parts your car was built with). | Made by third-party companies (designed to fit many vehicles, not one specific model). |
| Guaranteed exact fit and original quality, preserving your car’s safety and performance. | Varying quality – many are good, but some may not fit as precisely (Illinois law says they must be “like kind and quality”). |
| Typically more expensive to purchase. | Generally cheaper, saving money on repair costs. |
| Often limited to newer vehicles (availability for older models can be an issue). | Widely available for most vehicles, including older cars. |
| Usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty for peace of mind. | May come with their warranties, but not from your car’s manufacturer. |
In Illinois, insurance companies are allowed to specify aftermarket parts for repairs as long as they meet the ‘like kind and quality’ standard, and repair shops must also inform you in writing if they plan to use non-OEM parts. This means if you get into a fender-bender on a Chicago street, your insurer might propose using a generic part to save cost. Many aftermarket parts perform just fine, and some can even be as good as OEM. However, choosing OEM coverage ensures no compromises – you’ll get original parts every time, without having to debate or pay extra out-of-pocket for them.
How Does OEM Parts Coverage Affect Insurance Rates in Chicago?
Adding OEM parts replacement coverage will slightly increase your insurance premium because you’re opting for more expensive parts in any future claim. The cost of this add-on can vary, but it’s usually a modest bump – often just a few dollars more per month for most drivers. In a city like Chicago, where auto insurance rates are already higher than the Illinois average due to heavy traffic and accident frequency, it’s important to weigh the cost versus the benefit. Essentially, you pay a bit more now to avoid larger out-of-pocket costs for OEM parts after an accident.
For many Chicago drivers, the trade-off is worth it. If you drive a newer car or a high-value vehicle, using OEM parts in repairs can protect your investment. Imagine getting into a minor accident in downtown Chicago – with OEM coverage, you won’t have to settle for a cheaper bumper or fender that might not match the rest of your car. Instead, your insurer will cover the genuine replacement part.
Insure on the Spot can help you understand how much OEM coverage would add to your policy and whether it makes sense for your budget. Keep in mind that without OEM coverage, if you insist on original parts after a claim, you’d likely have to pay the difference in cost yourself.
Who Should Consider Original Parts Replacement Coverage?
Whether OEM parts coverage is right for you depends on your vehicle and personal priorities. Consider adding OEM coverage if any of the following apply:
- You have a newer or luxury vehicle – preserving all-original parts keeps its warranty intact and maintains resale value.
- You plan to keep your car long-term – OEM parts in repairs will help maintain its reliability over the years.
- Your car is under warranty or lease – using OEM parts can satisfy manufacturer or lease requirements and avoid potential issues at return.
- You value peace of mind – knowing any repairs will use manufacturer-approved parts gives extra confidence on Chicago roads.
However, OEM coverage isn’t necessary for everyone. If your vehicle is older (say, over 10 years) or has high mileage, you may be comfortable with aftermarket parts for repairs. Some insurance companies won’t even offer OEM coverage for very old cars because new factory parts might no longer be produced.
Also, if you’re on a tight budget, skipping this add-on can save you money on premiums – not a small consideration since Chicago drivers already pay higher insurance rates on average than those in less busy parts of Illinois. Aftermarket parts are generally acceptable, and insurers will ensure they’re safe to use. Many Chicago drivers with everyday commuter cars find standard coverage sufficient without the OEM endorsement.
Ultimately, consider how much you value having manufacturer-original parts. It’s a bit like choosing between getting your car serviced at the dealership versus a local mechanic – both can fix your car, but the dealership uses official parts. OEM coverage gives you that dealership-level assurance during insurance repairs. If that peace of mind is worth a few extra dollars per month to you, then it’s probably a smart addition to your policy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the minimum auto insurance required in Illinois?
A: Illinois drivers must carry at least 25/50/20 liability coverage. That means $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 for property damage. This is the legal minimum to drive in Illinois, though higher coverage limits are often recommended in a busy area like Chicago.
Q: Do I have to accept aftermarket parts for repairs in Illinois?
A: No. In Illinois, insurers can recommend aftermarket parts, but they must inform you if they do. You have the right to insist on OEM parts for your repair. However, without OEM coverage, you may need to pay the price difference if you demand original parts instead of the cheaper alternatives.
Q: Can I get OEM parts replacement coverage for an older car?
A: OEM parts coverage is typically offered for newer vehicles. Many insurers limit this coverage to cars under a certain age (often 5 to 10 years old) because OEM parts for very old models may be hard to find. If your car is older, check with your insurance provider – you might not need OEM coverage, or it may not be available once your vehicle reaches a certain age.
Q: Does adding OEM parts coverage increase my premium a lot?
A: Adding OEM coverage will increase your premium slightly, but usually not dramatically. It’s an optional endorsement, so expect to pay a bit more each month for the added protection. Many Chicago drivers find the small extra cost worth it for the guarantee of genuine parts in any repair. If budget is a concern, ask your agent for a quote with and without OEM coverage to see the difference.
Q: How can I add Original Parts Replacement coverage to my policy?
A: You can add this coverage by contacting your insurance company or agent and requesting an OEM parts endorsement. Typically, you’ll need to have collision and comprehensive coverage on your policy to qualify. A local agency like Insure on the Spot can help Chicago drivers include OEM coverage when starting a new policy or updating an existing one. It’s as simple as calling and asking to add OEM parts replacement to your plan – they’ll provide you with the details and any additional premium cost.
Get a Quote Today!
Protecting your car with the right coverage is especially important on Chicago’s busy roads. Insure on the Spot has deep local expertise and understands what Illinois drivers need. Whether you drive a brand-new car or an older ride, we’ll help tailor your policy so you feel confident after any accident. If you’re interested in Original Parts Replacement coverage or want to review your auto policy, our team is ready to assist. Call 773-202-5060 or get a Free Quote Online Today, and drive with peace of mind knowing you’re fully covered.