Some body shops suggest that collision repairers should not use salvage/recycled parts while others may prefer them. In other cases, carmakers discourage the use of them. In this scenario, Nissan North America recognizes the importance of recycling. But the use of salvage/recycled parts to repair collision-damaged vehicles raises serious concerns about quality, suitability, safety and warranty. For this reason, Nissan North America does not approve of the repair of its vehicles with salvage parts or assemblies. Here are some excerpts from Nissan’s position statements on the viability of salvage/recycled parts.
Why No Salvaged or Recycled Parts?
Many factors can influence the quality and suitability of a salvage part, including but not limited to, exposure to weather, improper removal or transfer of parts, possible mismatch of vehicle electrical components, or other safety-related items, as well as excessive wear on vital mechanical parts such as steering or suspension parts.
No Way to Regulate Their Use
In cases where the donor vehicle was repaired due to a prior collision, recycled parts may not even be an original or genuine Nissan replacement part. At this time, there is no generally accepted process in place for the repair industry to regulate the quality or suitability of salvage/recycled parts. Nissan North America strongly believes that the interests of our owners and collision repairers are best served when Genuine Nissan replacement parts are used in the repair of our vehicles. We ask that the collision repair industry adhere to these guidelines going forward.
Parts Warranties Invalid
Nissan North America’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty, and Limited Warranty on replacement parts do not apply to any parts other than Genuine Nissan original equipment parts. Nissan North America will not be responsible for any subsequent repair costs associated with a vehicle and/or part failure caused by the use of parts other than Genuine Nissan replacement parts.
How Does This Impact You?
If you choose not to use Genuine Nissan replacement parts you are opening yourself up for potential problems down the road. Sure, you might have saved $200 on a fender or a panel, but when it falls off on the freeway or cracks upon impact, did you really save anything at all? Nissan made your vehicle, so why not fix it using those same types of parts and keep yourself safe and looking toward your next road trip?
