Are the car doors replaced at 4S stores original factory parts?
2 Answers
The car doors replaced at 4S stores are original factory parts, as many 4S stores do not allow the use of sub-factory components for vehicle repairs. It is not recommended to use sub-factory parts when replacing doors, as sub-factory parts differ from the original stamping molds in terms of precision and are relatively cheaper. The processing precision and manufacturing materials of original factory doors are the same as those of the original parts, and their quality meets automotive manufacturing standards. The only difference lies in the painting process: original factory doors are painted along with the entire vehicle, while replacement original factory doors are unpainted and are painted separately later. As long as the installation process is professional, there will be no significant difference in quality and completeness between original factory and original parts. Note that since car doors are not considered wear-and-tear parts, any replacement is a strong reason to suspect that the vehicle has been involved in a collision accident, which could classify the car as an accident vehicle and lead to depreciation. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid replacing the door if it is damaged in an accident, unless absolutely necessary. If safe and reliable, dent repair should be prioritized over replacement.
Last time I had my car door replaced at the 4S dealership, they indeed used genuine OEM parts. There's quite a difference between OEM doors and aftermarket ones - the OEM door has the manufacturer's stamped serial number at the corner, with noticeably better craftsmanship in the sound insulation material and anti-collision beam inside, plus it perfectly matches the original car paint color. However, OEM parts cost about 30% more. If it's an insurance claim, I'd recommend prioritizing OEM parts, but if paying out of pocket, you'll need to consider if it's worth it. After installation, remember to check if the gaps are even and listen for any unusual noises when opening/closing the door - these are key indicators of installation quality.
