What are imitation or non-OEM parts?

Imitation parts (a.k.a. generic, aftermarket, ‘quality replacement’ or non-original equipment manufacturer (non-OEM), ‘Taiwan Tin’, ‘Off-shore sheet metal’, ‘Counterfeit’, etc) are "knock-off" copied parts made by a company other than the manufacturer of your vehicle. These parts are made to look like your vehicle’s parts, but have likely never have been crash tested and are not covered under your vehicle manufacturer’s warranty for fit, finish or function. In its February 1999 issue, Consumer Reports published the results of its extensive study of non-OEM parts. The cover story was entitled, “Shoddy Auto Parts: How to beat car repair rip-offs, Bumpers that shatter, Parts that don’t fit, Fenders that rust”. In addition to these concerns, there are no provisions for recalls based on the safety or performance (or lack thereof) of these parts. Your insurance company may attempt to use imitation parts to save money on your vehicle’s repair. An independent collision repair facility will ...