What are LKQ parts?

This is a term used in the collision repair industry that is an acronym for Like Kind & Quality. Basically, this is a used part. It has been purchased from a salvage yard and is in good, acceptable condition for the purpose of being used on another vehicle. This is usually a less expensive alternative in having a vehicle repaired; especially if your vehicle is an older vehicle. Insurance companies will typically use LKQ parts on a vehicle over one model year old, or with more than 12,000 miles on the vehicle being repaired. This is not always a disadvantage, because here at King Collision, if we do order an LKQ part, will we inspect the part for damage to determine if it is good and acceptable to be used on a vehicle. Insurance companies usually will not have a problem using brand new OEM/factory parts if an LKQ part is determined to be unacceptable for use in the repairs. If you are paying for the repairs on your own and without an insurance company, LKQ parts may be a good cost-effec

LKQ” stands for “like, kind and quality.” Most of us are more familiar with the other term for this category which is “Used Parts.” The term “LKQ” should more precisely define a sub-category of used parts that are just like the ones on your vehicle before the loss.

We’re talking ‘used’, ‘junk yard’, ‘experienced’ or ‘pre-owned’ parts here. Any way you slice it, they can offer a far better solution than ‘aftermarket’ (see above). The difficulty comes in trying to source quality comparable parts with ‘same year or newer’ status in a timely manner.