"Generic" (after-market) parts

"Generic" (after-market) parts are replacement parts made by a third party manufacturer. These parts are even sometimes made on old original factory dies, but... since they are old, they usually are worn--producing a product that might not fit (or perform) as well as O.E.M. parts. After-market parts are also usually not subject to the same close tolerances and inspection as the O.E.M. part. Insurance companies like after-market parts for one big reason--they are MUCH cheaper than the O.E.M. parts. Some insurance companies even write their policies to state that "only after-market parts" will be used--it is a good idea to check your policy on this. In the end, it's up to you to decide whether to go with O.E.M., used O.E.M. or after-market parts.

Oxidation

Oxidation is a layer of "dead" paint, meaning that all the oils have dried out of it, this gives the finish a rough or "flat" look.