There is an important element to be added here.

The insurance company doesn't choose what parts are used on your car, the BODY SHOP does.

That said, I understand that MOST insurance companies will only ALLOW enough money to purchase the aftermarket or used parts, but a REPUTABLE body shop does have some influence on what is replaced OE and what is replaced aftermarket or used. Some shops charge the insurance companies MORE labor to install inferior, non fitting parts.

Unfortunately, some not so honest body shops get paid for OE, then put on used or aftermarket parts which make them more PROFIT. They even go as far to tell you that the insurance company only paid them enough for USED or AFTERMARKET, when they got paid enough for OE.

Then there are the ones that got paid for parts they don't replace, or they get paid for parts and FIX yours instead, again making more profit.

GO to a bodyshop you TRUST.
ASK for referrals and look at cars that are IN THE SHOP. Are there lots of newer cars with USED/DIFFERENT COLOR fenders or doors? Look closely at completed cars if possible.

It's ok to ask for a bodyshop tour... How does the spraybooth look, do they have a spray booth??? (they may not allow you to walk around and they use the insurance excuse alot). There are some shops that are proud to let you see their work in progress.

Another important thing to remember is that you are ALWAYS entitled to a copy of the ESTIMATE. If you don't understand it ASK!!!

ALSO, you can always pay the difference between an aftermarket part replacement and an OE part (if you have the right bodyshop).

I used to deal with body shops in the past and have some experience in this area.
hope some of this info helps

08FEH