Because of design, certification and insurance costs, the OEM industry is hobbled with a rather arcane system of pricing replacement parts. When it comes to interior plastic parts—like a window molding, hinge cover or a glove box overlay, for example—a couple of dollars’ worth of plastic becomes a $400 part simply because of its unique shape and application.
Fortunately, there are several smaller companies that can design, fabricate and sell certified parts for much less than an OEM. In fact, it’s not uncommon for an OEM to buy parts from these replacement shops.
We covered certified fiberglass replacement parts in the February 2014 issue of Aviation Consumer and found that fiberglass costs more than plastic, it’s more resistant to damage and is easier to repair than plastic.
But don’t think that plastic parts are old technology and no longer viable. In most cases, plastic will get the job done and when used in areas that aren’t subjected to temperature, sunlight or heavy usage, can be a viable long-term option. But replacing plastic components won’t come without some challenges. Here’s a look at the market and what to expect in your search.