Auto Insurance Companies’ Use of LKQ Parts Indiana IN
Reader’s Question:
I was informed that like kind and quality parts would be used for my car, which was recently hit by another vehicle here in Indiana. It was completely not my fault. Why can’t the auto insurance company just buy brand-new parts for my car?
Rachel
Indianapolis, IN
It must be pretty upsetting to learn this especially after hearing that your car has just been damaged. However, you must know that auto insurance companies are under no obligation to replace your damaged car with brand-new parts. Under most state laws in Indiana, they must purchase LKQ parts or Like, Kind and Quality Parts. LKQ parts are those which are made by the same company and manufactured in the same year. It may, however, be used or salvaged, but it should be of the same brand and quality. This way, your car is restored to its condition before it was so unfortunately hit.
If the auto insurance company were to put brand-new parts, they would, in effect, be spending money to make you car better than it was. They wouldn’t do that, of course.
I think using LKQ parts is just fine, actually. What you don’t want is for the car repair shop to use Aftermarket parts. Then again, it really is a matter of preference. Aftermath parts are new but made by a different company. The parts are generally less expensive, making many people feel uncomfortable.
As much as everybody would want the OEM or Original Equipment Manufacturer, auto insurance companies don’t often include this provision in their auto insurance policies. Check your auto insurance policy again to find out the terms.
Tags: auto insurance policy, Car Insurance Company, car insurance law