Don’t Panic—They Might Not Fit a Brand New Part!
When your car heads off to the panel beater after an accident, you might expect shiny brand-new OEM parts to be fitted. But in South Africa? Not necessarily. If your vehicle is out of warranty or beyond its maintenance plan, your insurer is totally within its rights to approve alternative or second‑hand parts—assuming they don’t compromise safety or quality.
Why This Isn’t a Scam—It’s Insurance Logic
Insurance isn’t there to upgrade you; it’s there to restore you to your pre-crash state. That means:
- OEM parts if you’re still in warranty or it’s a critical component
- Aftermarket or used parts if the car is older or no longer under warranty
Think of it like getting a bargain at the spaza shop—not fancy, but it gets the job done.
What the Rules Actually Say
- Under the Competition Commission’s Right to Repair guidelines (since July 1, 2021), you can choose independent service providers even for in-warranty cars, and use non-OEM parts—again, if it’s safe and approved.
- The short-term Insurance Ombudsman confirms insurers don’t have to use new parts—just put you back the way you were.
- And if you disagree with your insurer’s surveyor, the FSCA’s Policyholder Protection Rules and Competition Commission guidelines empower you to challenge it or lodge complaints.
But… Caveats!
- Quality matters
Cheaper parts can be fine—but steering, airbags, brakes? Stick to OEM or high-quality OEE parts. - Accreditation & Insurance
If you choose an independent panel beater, make sure they’re SAMBRA/RMI accredited and have their own insurance cover. That’s the official box-ticking requirement. - Disclosures
Independent shops must tell you upfront if they’ll use non-OEM parts, and insurers must get your sign-off, especially if you’re still in warranty. - Resale value
Cars serviced with non-OEM parts might fetch slightly less at trade-in. Some dealers may ask about this.
Real Talk from the Forums
A Redditor who’d just moved to SA was told insurers commonly use used parts—even for minor bits like wing mirrors—since, as they put it:
“…you pay premium for a 16‑year‑old car, so they can replace with a faultless 16‑year‑old second‑hand part.” 4×4 Community+1Outsurance+1
Others note that using old, worn steering or braking parts could be risky if they fail—but overall, it’s legal and expected once the car’s out of warranty.
What You Can Do (Besides Panic)
- Ask upfront: Speak to your insurer/surveyor—ask if OEM parts are needed, or if second‑hand/generic fits are allowed.
- Provide your own parts: In many cases, you can supply a good-quality OEM or second-hand part and deduct the difference.
- Use reputable shops: Ensure they’re accredited (SAMBRA/RMI) and insured. Ask if they’ll use OEE (Original Equipment Equivalent) parts—same quality without the logo.
- Get it in writing: Part specs, warranties, and liability—all need documentation. Don’t sign anything blind.
- Challenge if needed: Disagree? Lodge a complaint with FSCA or the Insurance Ombudsman.
TL;DR
| Situation | What You Pay For | What You Get |
| In-warranty / critical parts | OEM only | High cost, full warranty |
| Out of warranty / non-critical parts | OEM, aftermarket, or used | Cost-effective, variable quality |
| Independent shop choice | Your call | Use accredited, insured providers |
Final Words (Or Don’t Reload on That Premium Just Yet)
South African insurers can legally “cheap out” on parts—but only when it makes sense. Dealership pricing isn’t your only option, and savvy consumers can work the system to their advantage. So next time your car heads into the shop:
- Ask questions
- Be informed
- Choose wisely
And hey—if you spot a bargain OEM bumper on Facebook Marketplace and want to stump insurers for the upgrade… just sayin’.