QuestionKen,
The person from the bodyshop told me that they are going to get the OEM from a used car. Can I argue with them about the OEM, and use it as a reason for me to transfer to a different bodyshop? My car has been with the bodyshop for more than three weeks, and my fear is that since they already did some work, they might not allow me to transfer to a different bodyshop. (My insurance company didn't have a preferred bodyshop in my area)
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Followup To
Question -
Ken,
Where do bodyshops usually get OEM parts? Are they supposed to be new or from some used cars in some yard?
Also, my Nissan 2000 Sentra had a left-side collision, and some frame damage. The estimate is around $4200. Can you give a totally unofficial estimate of the resale value of the car? (The mileage is around 36,000 miles)? Do you think any dealer will take the car if I try to trade in after the repair?
thanks!
Answer -
OEM means new original factory part. And they get them from the dealership or surplus factory parts supplier. Just a guess but I would say your car is worth around $10,000 to $12,000. If the repair are done right you should have no problem trading in you car with out even disclosing the damage. If it doesn't come up its not up to you to disclose. Unless the car has a salvage title which it doesn't.
Thank you for the question!
Ken
AnswerIf they started the work that work must be paid for. Once the work that has been done is paid for you can take you car to another shop but then you have to wait for them to get the parts. If the Insurance paid for a new part they can not use a used part. And if they get a used part there is no guarantee that it is OEM how would they know, it has paint on it. I would call the insurance company and let them know of the problems and your concern. They may be able to help you get results. Also it can take a week to ten days just to get the parts.
Thank you again !
Ken
