Ford Puts Pressure On Dealers, Body Shops To Use Factory Parts

Ford has long pressed dealers and third-party repair shops to use OEM parts when repairing vehicles, largely because thoey ensure that those vehicles are adhering to strict factory standards. With specific parts like windshields, this becomes even more important, as advanced driver assistance systems may not function properly with third-party glass - potentially causing safety issues - and such parts may also void a vehicle's warranty. Now, Ford is once again applying pressure on repairers to use OEM parts, it seems.

According to Automotive News, Ford has now issued 21 position statements that urge its dealers and certified body shops to use only parts approved by the automaker when repairing customer vehicles. The automaker notes that such a request doesn't come from a desire to boost sales and profit, but rather, to ensure that critical safety systems perform as intended. Ford also warned that lessees using aftermarket parts could violate the terms of their lease, too.

This comes as insurance companies are working to drive down the costs of repairs, which continue to soar. However, Ford warns that even sourcing parts from salvaged vehicles could cause issues with more sensitively calibrated systems.

“We can’t validate what that car has been through,” said Andrew McInnes, Ford customer service division collision and global brand protection manager. “We don’t know where that car has been and what collision it has been in. We can’t even validate that the parts taken off the car are the original parts.”

“We really do champion that [original equipment] part because it is the one that is designed to fit perfectly and perform exactly as intended, which is crucial to restoring a vehicle’s crash performance,” McInnes added. “While we understand that cost is a factor, we also continue to engage with the insurance industry to try and help them understand the significant value that original equipment parts bring in maintaining value, safety and integrity [of the vehicle] in the long run. The safety and reliability you get from that proper repair from original parts can help prevent bigger issues.”