When your car’s body panels, bumpers, or fenders get damaged, the first instinct is often to head straight to the dealership or manufacturer. But here’s the reality: going that route can leave a huge dent in your wallet. The smarter alternative? Replacing the parts yourself with aftermarket components. Not only does this save you money, but it also gives you more flexibility and control over the repair process.
The Cost Difference: Original Manufacturer vs Aftermarket
Dealership parts are designed by the automaker and sold at premium prices. They often cost 50–70% more than aftermarket equivalents. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, are produced by third-party companies and are widely available at local auto shops and online retailers. This makes them significantly more affordable without sacrificing reliability for common body panels. Don’t be fooled into shelling out huge sums of cash for something that should only cost a fraction of the dealership prices.
DIY Savings Add Up
Labor costs at body shops can be just as high as the parts themselves, with dealerships piling on tons of miscellaneous charges just for replace an easy part. By taking on the job yourself, you eliminate hundreds of dollars in labor fees. For example, replacing a bumper at a dealership could cost $800–$1,500 in total, with labor costs included, while sourcing an aftermarket bumper and installing it yourself might only run you $200–$400.
Quality That Competes With The Original
A common misconception is that aftermarket equals “cheap” in a bad way. While there are low-quality products out there, many aftermarket manufacturers meet or even exceed OEM specifications. In fact, some aftermarket companies specialize in producing stronger, more durable replacements, giving you a better value overall.
You also get more options. Aftermarket suppliers often produce parts in different styles, finishes, and price ranges—so you can choose between a budget-friendly replacement, a premium upgrade, or even a custom look for your vehicle.
Final Thoughts
For the savvy car owner, aftermarket body parts are a smart, practical alternative to dealership prices. So, the next time your bumper takes a hit or your fender gets dented, don’t rush to the dealer. Check out Paint N Ship, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the satisfaction of repairing your car yourself—without the dealership price tag.
What's more, we’ll make sure that your replacement part is matched to your car’s exact factory color.