Do Honda Dealers Use OEM Parts?

Yes—Honda dealerships typically use Honda Genuine (OEM) parts for warranty repairs, recalls, and most routine service, while sometimes offering aftermarket alternatives for non-warranty work, tires, or when customers request lower-cost options. This article explains when OEM is required, when there may be choices, and how you can verify what’s being installed on your vehicle.

What “OEM” Means at a Honda Dealer

At a Honda dealership, OEM parts are sold and installed as Honda Genuine Parts—components designed to Honda specifications and distributed by Honda. Many are produced by the same original suppliers (for example, Denso, NGK, Showa) and arrive in Honda-branded packaging with Honda part numbers. Dealers may also stock Honda Genuine remanufactured parts and Value-Line parts intended for older vehicles; these are Honda-approved and considered OEM within Honda’s program.

When Dealers Must Use OEM

In several scenarios, Honda dealers are obliged—or strongly expected—to use Honda Genuine (OEM) parts to maintain safety, performance, and eligibility for manufacturer reimbursement or program standards. The following list outlines the most common cases.

• Warranty repairs and recalls: Manufacturer warranty and safety recall work require OEM parts for Honda to reimburse the dealer and to maintain compliance.
• Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Dealer-performed TSB procedures use specified OEM parts and software updates.
• Emissions and safety systems: Components affecting emissions controls, airbags, seatbelts, braking, steering, and ADAS (driver-assistance) generally call for OEM parts to meet regulatory and calibration requirements.
• Honda ProFirst collision repairs: Honda’s ProFirst-certified body shops are trained to use OEM parts and procedures; insurers may propose alternatives, but OEM is Honda’s recommended approach for fit, crash performance, and sensor compatibility.
• Critical fluids and calibrations: Dealer service typically uses Honda Genuine fluids (e.g., ATF DW-1, HCF-2 CVT fluid, Type 2 coolant, Dual Pump II for certain AWD systems) and performs OEM calibration routines tied to those components.

These requirements help ensure that the vehicle functions as engineered and that warranty, safety, and regulatory standards are upheld. Using OEM parts in these situations reduces risk and preserves the intended performance envelope.

When Dealers Might Use Non‑OEM or Offer Choices

Outside warranty or recall work, some dealers may provide options to fit budgets or preferences. The list below highlights common areas where non-OEM or alternatives could be offered, with the caveat that choices should still meet Honda specifications.

• Tires: Honda doesn’t manufacture tires; dealers sell major brands that meet Honda specs and vehicle load/speed ratings.
• Batteries: Dealers may install Honda-branded or high-quality aftermarket batteries that meet fitment and performance standards.
• Customer-requested aftermarket: For cost savings or customization, some customers ask for non-OEM parts; reputable dealers will disclose and document this on the repair order.
• Out-of-warranty maintenance: Items like brake pads, rotors, and filters may be available as Honda Value-Line or aftermarket equivalents; Honda Value-Line remains within Honda’s parts program.
• Supply constraints: During shortages, a dealer might propose OEM-equivalent parts temporarily; informed consent and documentation are best practice.
• Accessories and glass: Certain accessories or windshield replacements may be sourced from approved vendors; for ADAS-equipped models, OEM glass is often advised to ensure proper camera and sensor operation.
• Remanufactured vs. new: Honda Genuine remanufactured components (e.g., starters, alternators) are OEM and often carry robust warranties; they are different from third-party rebuilt parts.

In these contexts, reputable dealerships explain options, pricing, and any trade-offs. You can always request OEM parts be used and documented on your repair order.

How to Confirm You’re Getting OEM at Service

Drivers who want assurance that Honda Genuine parts are being installed can take a few simple steps to verify—before, during, and after service. The following checklist can help you confirm.

1. Ask for “Honda Genuine” on the repair order: Have the advisor note that OEM Honda parts will be used, and keep a copy of the invoice.
2. Check part numbers and packaging: Honda part numbers typically follow a three-block format (e.g., 17220-5A2-A00). Packaging should show Honda branding or a Honda Genuine label.
3. Request your old parts back: Unless there’s a core charge or warranty return requirement, taking old parts home lets you confirm what was replaced.
4. Review the parts warranty: In the U.S., Honda Genuine replacement parts installed by a dealer are typically covered for at least 12 months (policies vary by region and part type; some remanufactured components carry longer coverage).
5. Verify fluids on the invoice: Look for Honda-recommended fluids by name (e.g., ATF DW-1, HCF-2 CVT fluid, Type 2 coolant, Dual Pump II where applicable).
6. Choose ProFirst for body work: For collision repairs, a Honda ProFirst-certified shop improves the likelihood of OEM parts and procedures.
7. Clarify Value-Line vs. aftermarket: If offered “Value-Line,” confirm it’s within Honda’s parts program; if aftermarket is proposed, ask about standards, fit, and warranty.

Documenting these details helps protect your investment and ensures your vehicle is repaired or maintained to Honda’s standards.

Regional and Policy Nuances

Policies and warranties vary by country and dealership. In the U.S., the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act means you can’t be required to use OEM parts for routine maintenance to keep your warranty valid—but dealers themselves generally install OEM on warranty and recall work. For non-warranty jobs, you can request OEM parts, and the dealer should disclose any non-OEM substitutions. Always review your local warranty booklet and ask your dealer for written confirmation of parts and labor coverage.

Industry Trends and Expert Context

As vehicles integrate more advanced safety systems and electrified components, proper fit, calibration, and software compatibility increasingly favor OEM parts. Dealers are also becoming more transparent about parts sourcing, and supply-chain stability since 2023–2024 has improved availability of critical Honda Genuine components. For ADAS-equipped models especially, OEM parts and procedures help ensure accurate sensor alignment and reliable system performance.

Bottom Line

Honda dealers generally use Honda Genuine (OEM) parts—especially for warranty, recall, and safety-critical repairs—and will typically accommodate requests for OEM in other scenarios. If cost or availability is a concern, dealers may present alternatives, but you can specify OEM and have that preference documented on your work order.

Summary

Most Honda dealership repairs use OEM Honda Genuine parts, mandated for warranty and recall work and recommended for safety and emissions systems. Dealers may offer non-OEM options for tires, accessories, or budget-driven maintenance, but you can request OEM and verify via your invoice, part numbers, and packaging. Coverage and policies differ by region, with at least 12 months of parts warranty common in the U.S. For collision work, choosing a Honda ProFirst-certified shop increases the likelihood of OEM parts and proper procedures.

Does Honda use OEM parts?

OEM parts are genuine Honda replacement parts. They are built by the same manufacturers that built your Honda SUV. They undoubtedly have a better quality than an aftermarket part you can find online.

Are dealerships required to use OEM parts?

Dealers Don’t Have to Use OEM Parts to Make Repairs
Many people assume that by heading to a dealership instead of an independent repair shop, they will be guaranteed the use of OEM parts in their automobile. The reality is quite different. OEM parts are often more expensive than aftermarket parts.

Is Honda considered an OEM?

Major automotive OEMs include BMW, Ford, General Motors, Honda and Toyota.

Do Honda dealerships install aftermarket parts?

Before installation, a service technician will check the aftermarket car part to verify if it is a match for your car, truck, or SUV. Even if they install the aftermarket part, however, the dealership can only provide a warranty on the labor.