When it comes to vehicle repairs, ensuring quality and safety without breaking the bank is a top priority for car owners. Capa Certified Car Parts offer a solution that bridges the gap between OEM quality and aftermarket affordability. But what exactly does CAPA certified mean, and why should you consider these parts for your car?
The term CAPA Certified signifies that a replacement automotive part has undergone rigorous pre-testing by the Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA), the leading independent non-profit authority in replacement parts certification in the US. Since 1987, CAPA has been committed to upholding the highest standards in the automotive industry, ensuring that replacement parts match genuine OEM parts in quality, comparability, and crucially, meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety requirements. Choosing CAPA certified parts is a smart move for vehicle owners, and here’s why:
Four Key Benefits of Insisting on CAPA Certified Replacement Auto Parts:
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OEM Quality, Aftermarket Affordability: CAPA certified parts are designed to provide the same high quality as Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts but at a more accessible price point. This combination helps manage car repair expenses effectively without sacrificing quality and safety standards.
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Stringent Quality and Fit Standards: Every part bearing the CAPA Seal has been meticulously compared to its OEM counterpart. This comparison ensures that the replacement part is manufactured using the correct materials, adheres to precise dimensions, and features proper assembly, including accurate weld positioning and alignment of gaps and flush measurements. This rigorous scrutiny guarantees a fit and finish comparable to OEM parts.
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Crash-Safety Performance: For collision replacement auto parts like hoods, fenders, and bumpers, CAPA certification is a testament to their safety performance. These certified parts meet the same crash-safety performance requirements as the original OEM and OE parts, ensuring your vehicle’s safety systems function as intended after a repair.
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Guaranteed Fit and Performance: The CAPA Seal serves as proof that a replacement part is certified to fit, perform, and last just like the original part it is replacing. This eliminates the uncertainty of fitment issues, saving time and hassle during repairs. No test fitting is required, providing peace of mind and efficient repairs.
What Types of Auto Parts Does CAPA Certify?
Quality in replacement auto parts isn’t just about appearance; it’s determined through objective testing and evaluation. CAPA certification stands out as the most comprehensive quality assurance program, establishing measurable standards for various replacement parts, including metals, plastics, lights, and bumpers. CAPA’s testing procedures are based on nationally recognized standards from organizations like the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). CAPA regularly updates its standards to maintain the high quality of CAPA Seal certified parts. The range of CAPA certified replacement parts is extensive, including:
- Deck lids and shells
- Grilles
- Hoods and liners
- Pickup Beds
- Tailgates
- Bumper covers
- Fenders, liners, and mounting brackets
- Front and rear bumpers, reinforcements, brackets, and energy absorbers
- Front Support Parts, radiator supports, and upper fender rails
- Quarter panels and door shells
- Headlamps, taillights, and brackets
- High-mounted brake lights
- Windshields, side mirror assemblies
- Exterior rearview and sideview cameras
- AC Condensers
- Replica wheels
- Sensors
Shopping for CAPA Certified Auto Parts: What to Look For
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or rely on a professional mechanic, finding CAPA certified parts is straightforward. The distinctive blue and yellow CAPA seal is your assurance of a part’s certified quality. This seal is applied in two parts: a portion affixed to the part itself and a removable portion to be attached to your invoice, confirming the use of a certified component.
- In-Store Purchases: Always ask specifically for CAPA certified parts and verify the presence of the blue and yellow seal. No seal, no certification.
- Online Shopping: Start by entering your vehicle’s details (year, make, model, VIN) and the part you need. Look for certification information in the part descriptions. Utilize search filters to specifically select CAPA certified parts. If unsure, contact customer service for clarification.
- Mechanic and Collision Repairs: Inform your mechanic and insurance claims adjuster about your preference for CAPA certified parts to ensure cost savings without compromising on quality compared to genuine OEM parts.
Where to Buy CAPA Certified Parts Online
For a wide selection of CAPA certified replacement auto parts, consider online retailers like LKQ Online. They offer search filters that allow you to specifically find CAPA certified parts, including bumpers, hoods, quarter panel assemblies, headlights, taillights, and fog lights. While CAPA is a leading certification, LKQ Online also carries parts with other certifications like Platinum Plus, NSF, and Diamond Standard, all rigorously tested for quality and safety. When shopping online, always look for certification designations to make informed choices.
Choosing CAPA certified car parts means opting for quality, safety, and affordability. Look for the CAPA Seal to ensure you’re getting a certified part that meets rigorous standards, providing peace of mind and value for your vehicle repairs.
