Clawson, MI - After a collision, choosing the right repair solution can affect vehicle safety, performance, and long-term value. Xcel Collision, a leading provider of collision repair in Clawson, MI, highlights why Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts matter in certified collision repair. With modern vehicles relying on advanced safety systems and precise engineering, OEM components help restore structural integrity and support proper recalibration after impact, offering drivers a safer, more dependable outcome.
What Are OEM Parts and Why Do They Matter in Collision Repair
When a vehicle is repaired after a crash, the parts used determine how closely it returns to factory standards. OEM parts are produced by the vehicle’s original manufacturer and match the exact specifications, materials, and tolerances the vehicle was built with. These components undergo rigorous testing, including crash and safety system calibration tests, before they are installed on new vehicles. In contrast, many aftermarket parts are made by third-party companies without the same quality controls or verification testing.
For owners of late-model and luxury vehicles such as Mercedes and Cadillac, fit and finish are not cosmetic concerns but essential safety features. Even millimeter-level variations from aftermarket body panels can misalign sensors, compromise Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), and reduce the effectiveness of structural reinforcements designed to protect occupants in subsequent collisions. Certified technicians at Xcel Collision use OEM parts to help return vehicles to their pre-accident performance and safety benchmarks.
Safety System Recalibration and Structural Integrity
Modern vehicles depend on a network of radar units, cameras, and sensor systems to support features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assistance. These systems require exact positioning to operate correctly. After a crash, proper recalibration is necessary, and this process depends on components that match factory dimensions.
OEM parts support precise recalibration because they align with manufacturer specifications and provide predictable mounting points for sensors. When aftermarket parts are substituted, recalibration machines may not align correctly, leaving safety systems compromised. Studies by industry authorities show that vehicles repaired with parts that diverge from factory specifications have higher rates of sensor misalignment and false readings. In practical terms, this means systems designed to prevent collisions could underperform when they are most needed.
Warranty Coverage, Vehicle Value, and Insurance Considerations
Using OEM parts can protect a vehicle’s warranty and future resale value. Manufacturer warranties often require OEM components for auto collision repairs to maintain coverage on safety systems and related components. Aftermarket parts may void specific warranty provisions if they contribute to subsequent failures.
Vehicle history reports may reflect whether OEM parts were used in past repairs. Buyers and dealerships commonly factor this into valuation, with non-OEM repairs often leading to lower offers. Research indicates that vehicles repaired with aftermarket parts can experience diminished resale value, particularly among discerning buyers of late-model and luxury vehicles.
Insurance policies vary, but many allow vehicle owners to request OEM parts for collision repairs. While aftermarket parts may cost 30 to 50% less, proper documentation and technical justification often persuade insurers to approve OEM usage. Certified collision repair specialists assist by detailing why OEM components are necessary to meet safety, warranty, and manufacturer repair procedure requirements.
The Role of Certified Collision Repair Specialists
Choosing a certified repair provider enhances the likelihood that repairs meet industry best practices. Certifications such as I-CAR training indicate that technicians remain current with advanced vehicle materials, repair techniques, and safety system requirements. At Xcel Collision, technicians maintain certifications and use specialized equipment for high-strength steel and aluminum repairs, laser frame measuring, and manufacturer-specific calibration tools.
Advanced diagnostic systems at this collision shop in Clawson, Michigan, allow technicians to access factory repair procedures and technical service bulletins for accurate assessments. These capabilities help to integrate OEM parts seamlessly and safety systems to function as intended after repair completion.
Protect Your Safety and Value with OEM Parts
Choosing OEM parts helps to restore your vehicle’s safety, value, and performance after a collision. Don’t compromise with aftermarket shortcuts. Trust certified collision repair specialists who use the right components and stand behind their work. Contact Xcel Collision in Clawson today at (248) 965-3432 or [email protected] to schedule a repair estimate and protect your investment with confidence.
For Clawson residents, this collision center near them provides certified auto body repair and collision services for late-model vehicles, luxury brands, fleet vehicles, and municipal fleets. Known for technical expertise, advanced repair equipment, and a commitment to safety and quality, the company helps drivers deal with the repair process with confidence. Their facility services Clawson and the surrounding Oakland County communities with comprehensive collision repair and exceptional craftsmanship.
