My 2004 GX is in the body shop after being totaled by SF. I’ve settled with them and did an owner retained. I have the repair plan and there are some line items where I can pay for OEM or used parts. I don’t know anything but it seems to me the mechanical parts are pretty darned important so that should be shiny new but if I can get a rim for $140 instead of $650 then by gosh I should. Right? Right rear view mirror. Same thought. But right rocker panel?

what do you all think? Here’s the list of things I can choose OEM or used. Remember I’m the payor, there’s no third party and there’s no going back for more money. I will be applying for a rebuilt title so that’s part of the calculus as well.

possible used parts or OEM?


R Headlight
-R Fender
-Wheel
-R Frt Wheel Hub Assembly
-R Frt Steering Knuckle
-R Drive Axle Assembly
-Steering Gear Assembly
-R Door Mirror
-R Fog Light
-R Frt Lower Control Arm
-Frt Stabilizer Bar

I appreciate your always thoughtful and enlightening input.

 

Only thing I would not get OEM is the wheel and maybe axle, depending on the wheel itself I'd have to see it. FYI aftermarket body parts are notorious for being poor quality they don't fit right and tend to rust much faster.

 

Suspension parts I would definitely go with OEM.

For body parts, they're not structural so you have an option of going with 3rd party. Talk to the bodyshop to see if there are any they can recommend (easier to fit, lasts longer, better surface finish, etc)

Chip H.

 

I'd go with used OEM body parts where possible, they'll be cheaper for the bodyshop to paint and install as they'll fit with no monkeying around. Talk to your bodyshop, they should be able to guide you here as well.

Suspension I'd use either new OEM or new aftermarket of good quality, depending on what it is I guess.

Headlight you could try and find used, and polish both so they clean up and look good. One new and one used will always look funny. Either way, I'd stay OEM for headlights, and definitely don't' mix and match OEM and aftermarket.

 

Mechanicals , go new OEM.

Cosmetic parts, compare costs. A used part from a good Salvage / Junk yard may cost as much as a new replacement on Amazon. So compare. Carid might have the wheel reconditioned you need as well.