Ford Sues Empire Auto Parts Over Design Patents
Ford alleges Empire Auto Parts infringed five design patents covering F-150 body parts and Bronco Sport lamps in a federal suit filed in Dallas.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Auto Parts
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Ford Global Technologies filed a design patent infringement lawsuit against Empire Auto Parts on October 26 in federal court in Dallas. The complaint alleges infringement of five Ford design patents covering F-150 grilles, fenders and hoods, plus Bronco Sport headlamps and tail lamps, and Ford is seeking an injunction and monetary relief.
Why it matters
The case adds to a wave of patent disputes over aftermarket collision parts, following General Motors' similar cases against parts makers and distributors earlier this year. Its outcome could shape how design patents apply to replacement body parts sold to repair shops and consumers.
The complaint asserts five Ford design patents covering F-150 grilles, fenders and hoods, plus Bronco Sport headlamps and tail lamps. Additional Empire Auto Parts catalogue items and Ford patents are identified but are not yet part of the case.
The players
Ford Global Technologies
Ford Global Technologies is the Ford Motor Company entity that holds and enforces the company's intellectual property, including the design patents at issue.
Empire Auto Parts
Empire Auto Parts is an aftermarket automotive parts supplier and a member of the Automotive Body Parts Association.
Automotive Body Parts Association
The Automotive Body Parts Association is a trade group representing aftermarket collision parts makers that has litigated against Ford's collision parts design patents.
The details
The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Dallas and names Empire Auto Parts as the defendant. Empire Auto Parts is a member of the Automotive Body Parts Association, which has previously challenged Ford's collision parts design patents in court and is encouraging members to contribute to its legal fundraising.
Timeline
October 26: Ford files design patent lawsuit against Empire Auto Parts in federal court in Dallas.
Earlier this year: General Motors brings similar patent cases against aftermarket parts makers and distributors.
Roadmap
The suit follows the Federal Circuit's 2024 decision in LKQ v. General Motors, which revised how design obviousness is assessed for auto body patents. It extends that legal shift into an active enforcement fight over aftermarket collision parts sold in Texas and nationwide.
Drivers who need replacement hoods, fenders or lamps for a Ford F-150 or Bronco Sport may see fewer aftermarket options if the patents are enforced. Repair shops may face higher costs or more limited sourcing for these collision parts.
The takeaway
Replacement body part prices and availability can be affected by patent disputes, so comparing OEM and aftermarket options before a repair is worthwhile. Ask your repair shop which parts are being installed and whether they are original or aftermarket.
Further reading
Explore more reporting in the Auto Parts section for context on aftermarket supplier disputes.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Auto Service World.
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