Seems like unless you’ve got paperwork for everything, they just default to the cheapest replacement.
I’ve actually had a different experience—my insurance covered an OEM wheel for my old Accord after a hit-and-run, and I didn’t have receipts. They did ask for photos and some proof it was original, but it wasn’t a total nightmare. Maybe it depends on the adjuster or how you document stuff? Agreed value is solid, but sometimes you can get lucky if you’re persistent and have decent records, even if it’s not all paperwork.
Maybe it depends on the adjuster or how you document stuff?
That’s definitely part of it, but I’ve seen cases where even with photos, if there’s no clear proof of OEM (like a part number), they’ll still push for aftermarket. It’s not always about luck—sometimes it comes down to how strict the policy wording is, or even just how busy the claims department is that week. I’ve had folks get frustrated when their “decent records” weren’t enough, especially with older cars. Just saying, it can be hit or miss.
I get what you’re saying about policy wording, but honestly, I’ve seen people get tripped up just because they didn’t keep receipts or couldn’t find a VIN on a part. It’s like, if you don’t have every scrap of proof, they’ll use it as an excuse to cut corners. Has anyone here actually managed to get OEM parts covered on an older car, or is it basically impossible unless you fight tooth and nail?
OEM parts on an older car? Yeah, it’s a bit like trying to find a unicorn in your glovebox. But I’ve seen it happen—usually when someone’s got comprehensive coverage and the policy specifically says “OEM parts” (and yes, they actually read the fine print). The trick is, you’ve gotta be organized. Snap pics of everything, keep digital copies of receipts, and if you’re missing a VIN, sometimes a good shop can vouch for you. It’s not always a battle royale, but insurers do love their paperwork...
I get the appeal of OEM parts, especially if you’re driving something that’s more than just a commuter box. But I’ve always wondered—when it comes to uninsured motorist coverage, do insurers really stick to the “OEM only” promise if your car’s, say, 10+ years old? I mean, I’ve seen policies that technically say it, but when push comes to shove, it feels like they’ll try to sneak in aftermarket stuff unless you’re really on top of it.
I had an incident a couple years back (hit and run in a parking lot, of course the other driver vanished), and my adjuster was all about “equivalent quality” rather than actual OEM. I pushed back, but honestly, it took forever and a half to get them to even consider it. At some point, I started wondering if it was worth the hassle, especially since my car’s not exactly a collector’s item—just a well-loved old Benz.
Is it just me, or do these companies bank on people getting tired and giving up? I mean, I get that paperwork is king, but sometimes it feels like they’re just hoping you’ll accept whatever they offer. Has anyone actually had an insurer proactively offer OEM parts without a fight? Or is that just a myth?
Also, about keeping receipts and photos—does anyone else feel like they’re running a small archive just to keep their car legit? My glovebox is basically a filing cabinet at this point. Maybe I’m just paranoid, but after the last round of “negotiations,” I’m not taking any chances...
Curious if anyone’s had a smoother experience or if it’s always a bit of a grind. Maybe it’s just the price of admission for driving something a little older and nicer?
