Polestar vehicles, whether the hybrid Polestar 1 or the fully electric Polestar 2 are engineering masterpieces that blend Scandinavian elegance with cutting-edge EV technology.

But as any Polestar owner knows, maintaining that performance and quality doesn’t come cheap. OEM replacement parts can be surprisingly expensive, leaving many drivers wondering: “Why do Polestar OEM parts cost so much?”and “When does it make sense to buy used instead?”

In this guide, Ingenext, Canada’s trusted source for used Polestar and Smart Fortwo parts, breaks down the real reasons behind OEM pricing, the advantages and drawbacks of used parts, and how to save money without sacrificing safety or performance.

1. What Are OEM Parts, Exactly?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are components built by or for the same manufacturer that made your car, in this case, Polestar (a Volvo subsidiary).
They are designed, tested, and certified to meet the exact performance and safety standards of your vehicle.

Examples include:

• Wheels and tires engineered for EV efficiency.
  
  

• High-voltage electrical systems.
  
  

• Infotainment units integrated with the vehicle’s software.
  
  

• Brake, steering, and suspension systems tuned for Polestar’s unique dynamics.
  
  

Unlike generic aftermarket parts, OEM components are precision-built for perfect fit, reliability, and compatibility.

2. Why OEM Polestar Parts Cost More

There are several key reasons OEM parts come with a higher price tag and understanding them can help you make smarter decisions when maintaining your EV.

a. Engineering and R&D Costs

Polestar parts are engineered specifically for electric performance vehicles, which means they undergo rigorous testing for:

• Heat management.
  
  

• Aerodynamics and weight reduction.
  
  

• Compatibility with regenerative braking and battery systems.
  
  

Developing these components takes years and millions of dollars in research and software calibration. That cost is reflected in the retail price.

b. Advanced Materials and Manufacturing

Many Polestar parts are made from lightweight aluminum, carbon fiber composites, and high-grade alloys: materials that cost more to source and machine than standard steel.

For example:

• A Polestar 2 alloy rim is forged, not cast, for better durability and efficiency.
  
  

• Polestar brake rotors often use two-piece floating designs for superior heat dissipation.
  
  

These premium materials ensure performance but increase manufacturing costs.

c. Strict Quality and Safety Testing

OEM parts are certified through:

• Crash simulations and endurance testing.
  
  

• Environmental stress testing (heat, cold, humidity).
  
  

• Compatibility with EV electrical systems.
  
  

Each part must pass Volvo Group’s stringent internal quality standards before it reaches a dealership. This level of testing adds time and cost, but guarantees reliability.

d. Software Integration

Polestar vehicles are software-dependent machines.
Even hardware like battery modules, ECUs, and infotainment screens require software calibration to communicate with the car’s systems.

OEM parts come with factory firmware compatibility something most aftermarket replacements lack.

e. Limited Production Volume

Polestar doesn’t produce millions of cars per year like Toyota or Ford. Lower production numbers mean smaller batches of parts, which leads to higher per-unit costs due to limited economies of scale.

f. Dealership Markups

When you buy directly through an authorized dealer, prices often include markups for:

• Administrative fees.
  
  

• Shipping and inventory.
  
  

• Warranty processing.
  
  

That’s why the same part sold through an OEM channel might cost 30–50% more than an equivalent used or reconditioned OEM part.

3. When OEM Parts Are Absolutely Worth It

Even though they’re expensive, there are cases where OEM is the only logical choice.

• Safety-critical systems: brakes, airbags, suspension arms, and steering.
  
  

• Software-integrated components: ECUs, sensors, and high-voltage modules.
  
  

• Under-warranty vehicles: using aftermarket or unverified parts may void coverage.
  
  

• Performance parts: Polestar’s tuning and balance depend on factory components.
  
  

If your car is still under warranty or the part directly impacts safety, OEM new parts remain the safest bet.

4. When Used OEM Parts Make More Sense

Here’s where things get interesting because used OEM parts often deliver the same quality and safety for a fraction of the cost.

At Ingenext, used parts are carefully inspected, tested, and verified for performance, giving you OEM-level confidence at 40–70% lower prices.

a. Same Engineering, Lower Cost

Used OEM parts are literally the same components Polestar installed at the factory just recovered, cleaned, and tested from another vehicle.
You’re not sacrificing quality; you’re just avoiding the retail markup.

b. Sustainability

Reusing OEM parts is one of the most environmentally responsible ways to maintain an EV.
Every reused part saves raw materials, reduces carbon emissions, and extends the lifespan of existing components.

At Ingenext, sustainability is a core principle: we give quality parts a second life instead of sending them to scrap.

c. Perfect for Out-of-Warranty Vehicles

If your Polestar is out of warranty, it makes little sense to pay dealer prices for new parts.
Used OEM parts from a certified source can restore full performance without breaking your budget.

d. Discontinued or Hard-to-Find Components

Polestar models evolve rapidly. Certain rim styles, body panels, or infotainment screens are no longer produced and only available as used OEM parts.

Ingenext helps bridge that gap by sourcing and cataloguing rare, discontinued Polestar parts.

5. How to Ensure Used Parts Are Reliable

Buying used doesn’t mean taking risks as long as you choose a trusted provider that applies rigorous inspection standards.

Here’s what to look for before buying any used Polestar part:

Ingenext follows all five steps for every Polestar part we sell.

6. New OEM vs Used OEM: A Practical Comparison

Used OEM offers the best value-performance ratio for most Polestar owners particularly those beyond the initial warranty period.

7. Examples of Parts Where Used OEM Makes Sense

Every used part sold by Ingenext is tested for function and inspected for defects before resale, ensuring complete safety and compatibility.

8. The Environmental Argument

Choosing used OEM parts isn’t just good for your wallet: it’s good for the planet.
Polestar’s sustainability vision aligns with circular economy principles, and buying used supports that mission.

By reusing verified OEM parts:

• You reduce CO₂ emissions from raw material extraction.
  
  

• You cut energy use from new manufacturing.
  
  

• You minimize electronic and metal waste.
  
  

Each used part sold by Ingenext contributes to this sustainable ecosystem extending the life of high-quality EV components.

9. How Ingenext Ensures Quality

At Ingenext, we’re not just resellers we’re specialists in EV parts recovery and testing.
Our process includes:

1. OEM sourcing from certified Polestar and Volvo vehicles.
   
   

2. Complete cleaning and reconditioning to remove debris and oxidation.
   
   

3. Performance testing using diagnostic tools and equipment.
   
   

4. VIN matching and labeling for accuracy.
   
   

5. Eco-responsible packaging and shipping.
   
   

Each part is traceable, inspected, and guaranteed to meet OEM standards.

10. When Not to Choose Used Parts

While used OEM parts are often the smart choice, there are exceptions:

• Safety systems like airbags or seatbelt modules (should always be new).
  
  

• Battery packs: unless certified and professionally tested.
  
  

• Heavily corroded or cracked components.
  
  

If you’re unsure, Ingenext’s technicians can advise whether a new or used option is best for your vehicle.

11. Frequently Asked Questions

Are used OEM Polestar parts as safe as new?

Yes, as long as they’re inspected, tested, and verified by a trusted provider like Ingenext.

Do used parts affect warranty?

If your car is still under Polestar’s manufacturer warranty, new OEM parts are required. However, for out-of-warranty vehicles, used OEM parts are fully compatible and safe.

How does Ingenext test used parts?

We inspect for cracks, corrosion, and performance issues, then test each component electronically and mechanically before sale.

Can I get installation help?

Ingenext provides installation guidance and, in some regions, can refer you to certified EV service partners.

12. Key Takeaways

• OEM parts cost more because they reflect engineering, quality testing, and brand assurance.
  
  

• Used OEM parts offer the same authenticity and fit, but at a significantly lower cost.
  
  

• Buying from a trusted source like Ingenext ensures both safety and sustainability.
  
  

• The best parts to buy used are wheels, brakes, interior trims, infotainment, and suspension components.
  
  

Conclusion

Polestar’s premium engineering comes at a price but maintaining that performance doesn’t have to.
By choosing used OEM parts from Ingenext, you can enjoy authentic quality, tested reliability, and meaningful savings: all while supporting sustainability in the EV ecosystem.

Whether you’re replacing a rim, a control arm, or an infotainment unit, Ingenext ensures every component meets OEM standards and passes inspection before it reaches your hands.