Automakers Applaud Crash Parts Study

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers praised the release of the first state sponsored comprehensive evaluation of automotive crash parts and their certification. A recent study issued by the California Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR), found that auto body technicians feel pressured by the insurance industry into using aftermarket crash parts.

The 18-month BAR study was undertaken to determine if there was need for the state to adopt a certification process for non-Original Equipment Manufacturer (non-OEM) replacement crash parts used for collision repair. "Crash parts" include exterior sheet metal and plastic parts — hoods, fenders, doors, bumpers, etc. — most frequently needing to be replaced after accidents.

Alliance Vice President of State Affairs, Kris Kiser stated, This study confirms what we have said all along about the certification of aftermarket parts. Consumers are best protected when their repair options are fully disclosed and they have a right to choose the type and quality of parts to be used to repair their collision damaged vehicle.

The report found that certification does not protect consumers from poor quality parts. BAR agreed that the best way to protect consumers from imitation crash parts was to require insurers to warrant that replacement crash parts are of like kind, quality, safety, fit and performance as Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts.

Among its other recommendations, the BAR noted that aftermarket crash parts certifiers should establish warranties for the parts they certify, and stand behind those warranties when an auto body repair shop demonstrates that the parts are defective or don't fit correctly.

Kiser added , This should be used as a guide by other states that have begun or are considering legislation or insurance regulation to restrict replacement parts available for collision repair. While we continue to believe that non-OEM crash parts - including certified parts — are not equal in quality to OEM crash parts, we also believe that non-OEM parts should not be excluded from the market. Let all parts compete and earn their choice by knowledgeable vehicle owners. That's the way the market works best.

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