How Do We Decide Whether to Repair or Replace?

Replacing a part is always a last resort for us. Conserving resources is important, so whenever possible, we will repair whatever components we can. Besides, obtaining replacement parts can be an expensive and tricky situation depending on the year, make, and model of your car. In order to guarantee the life of something like a car bumper repair, here at Mackin’s, we follow OEM guidelines and repair recommendations when available. All replacement parts and procedures are intended to restore your vehicle to pre-loss condition.

OEM or Aftermarket

OEM parts are made from or sourced from the original equipment manufacturer. Aftermarket parts are made to look, act, fit, and perform just like OEM parts. They are made from a different manufacturer than the original. While we recommend using all OEM parts for your repairs, the state laws and insurance policies that you buy state that alternative parts can be used by insurance companies. These parts are generally less expensive, so that’s what insurance companies use. You, as the customer, always have the right to choose all OEM parts, but you would have to pay the difference in price. Mackin’s makes sure, in the instances we use alternative parts, that these parts look and fit like the OEM part would. If it does not, we send it back and do not use it.