When you’re a DIYer fixing your own vehicle, you want quality parts for a lower price. That means you probably shy away from the dealership. However, you should never count the dealer out completely. The dealer could surprise you with the lowest price on certain parts. In some cases, you may not find a part at your average auto parts store or the dealership because of the age of the vehicle or because it’s a part that very seldom breaks. You may have to resort to junkyards or order the part from someone you’re not familiar with.
Finding the Best Part at the Best Price
Always call around to find the best price, but make sure you are not comparing apples and oranges. The price of white box parts is usually less than that of name-brand parts. And, in most cases, both of those are less expensive than original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. Add the dealership to your search for the best price.
You should also know your parts. For example, most water pumps, alternators, CV axles, power steering pumps, and starters are remanufactured. You could go with a white box part and be okay. If you want brand new, it will cost you, and if you want a brand-new name brand it will cost you even more. If you must have a brand name for a part, be sure to ask for the part by name. For example, if you are working on a Chevy and you want AC Delco plugs, specify what you want, or the counterman may give you the price on another brand that may or may not be less expensive.
Ordering From an Unknown-to-You Place
If you’ve never heard of an online parts house be sure to check for a contact phone number, an address that is in the United States, and the site’s return policy. And, check the replacement car parts reviews for the site and the part you are looking at.
Ordering From an Auction Site
In many cases, you may be working on an older vehicle and may have trouble finding parts unless they are used. Auction sites such as eBay have many parts for sale. Always check out the seller because in most cases, parts cannot be returned. You also have to be wary of those sellers who list items but do not have them and just take your money.
When using an auction site, check the seller’s reputation for several factors including:
- Sending the item on time;
- Sending the part that was described in the listing;
- The sender’s customer service rating; and
- That the item was in the condition as stated by the seller.
In some cases, you may be forced to take a chance on a seller that has few reviews, but it’s best to stay away from sellers with no reviews.
If you are a counter person helping a customer find a specific part, you should also keep these factors in mind, whether you are calling around for the part to resell or you are referring a customer directly to another business or individual selling the item the customer needs.
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Thanks for sharing such important tips and tricks.
Thanks for mentioning that you should know your parts like water pumps, alternators, CV axles, power steering pumps, and starters are all remanufactured. My brother is thinking about looking into Isuzu truck parts because he’s contemplating fixing his old vehicle to drive it to work and back home. I think it’s a good investment to shop from a reputable retailer that has the necessary parts if he decides to rebuild the truck.
Thanks for the reminder that different factors, like whether the parts are aftermarket or OEM, will impact how much they cost, so that should be taken into consideration when we’re shopping around. My truck was damaged and needs a couple of replacements to get going again. I’ll have to look at what parts are available and see what’s best for my situation.
This was an amazing piece of information about Tips for buying Aftermarket Car Parts. This was very helpful for me. I was searching for this type of information for many days and then I just stumbled on your post. After reading your blog I am happy that I visited your website. Keep posting.
As you mentioned, it is always a good idea to call around for the best price, but make sure that you are comparing the same things at each location. My husband is trying to look for a U-joint to put in his truck, as his broke last week while off roading. I will have to show this article to him, and see if it helps in the decision making.
I liked your tip about asking for a brand if you needed it, but to also consider white box parts since you could end up paying less for a similar part. My brother is thinking about buying a used car, and we are looking for advice about getting some parts to rebuild the car. I will pass him the article so he can be aware of what to look for when ordering the parts to fix the car.
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Truly this such helpful article for those who are intent car parts.Thanks for sharing this valuable content.
I like your advice about shopping around for the best price to ensure I get the car part I need for the best price. Ella, my roommate, needs a new front axle for her car. She plans to buy a used one since she has a limited budget, so I’ll share this tip of yours with her later. Thanks.