Auto Parts

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Many people feel that purchasing car parts through the dealership’s service department can turn out as a costly adventure, unnecessarily.
The common perception is that since car dealerships enjoy an enormous buying power, with which they can obtain parts at bulk, heavily discounted rates, this saving will be passed on to the end customer.

The reality however, is quite different.
In most cases, dealers’ service departments and even independent mechanics are more likely to turn out more expensive compared to the getting the parts you need yourself from auto part retailers.

Yes, it requires some more work and research, but the payoff should make it all worthwhile.
Additionally, these days it’s easier to compare products as well as different vendors.
Since auto parts can be purchased online and since the entire process is far more transparent in terms of overall cost and technical specifications, conducting a thorough research shouldn’t consume much of your time.

Finding the parts you need in a merchant’s catalog is quite simple, too.
You need to have precise information about your vehicle’s year, make and model and… that’s basically it.
The website’s auto part finder will take it from there and present you with the results.
You’ll be able to explore a greater variety of manufacturer brands and enjoy more freedom, plus you can conduct this search on several sites and order from the one that offers the best deal.

Who Buys from Auto Part Websites?

Online automotive part distributors serve a diverse audience:

• Car dealerships
• Independent garages, mechanical and body repair shops
• Professional installers and service stations
• Insurance companies
• Do-it yourself car enthusiasts
• Fleet owners / managers
• Retail customers / private car owners

What Types of Parts Are Sold Online?

Basically, everything.
Here are the major product categories.

Replacement Parts:

• Air Conditioning / Climate Control
• Battery
• Belts & Hoses
• Body, Trim & Mirrors
• Brakes & Traction Control
• Charging & Starting
• Cooling & Heating
• Electrical & Wiring
• Electronics & Navigation
• Engine Parts & Mounts
• Exhaust
• Exterior
• Filters & PCV Valves
• Fuel Delivery & Emission Control
• Hardware & Fasteners
• Ignition & Tune-Up
• Interior
• Lighting
• Powertrain
• Routine Maintenance
• Steering & Suspension
• Tire & Wheel
• Tools, Equipment, Fluids & Garage
• Towing
• Transmission & Transaxle
• Wipers

Performance Parts:

• Body Styling Components
• Brackets & Cables
• Brakes
• Charging System & Electrical
• Chassis & Suspension
• Cooling System
• Drivetrain
• Engines & Components
• Engine Dress-Up
• Exhaust
• Filters
• Flash Tuners & Analyzers
• Gaskets & Seals
• Gauges & Components
• Heat Suppression
• Oil, Sealers & Additives
• Plumbing
• Pumps
• Safety Equipment

OEM vs. Aftermarket

Whether you wish to purchase new parts (either foreign or domestic) as part of regular preventive car maintenance, everyday care or to repair your damaged vehicle after an accident, the familiar dilemma will present itself: Should you buy OEM or aftermarket auto parts? Obviously, there are pros and cons to each option.

OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer and it means that these parts were made by the original vehicle’s manufacturer.
Naturally, they are easier to choose, offer complete assurance of quality and come with a reliable warranty (and peace of mind).
However, they are far more expensive and that’s why so many consumers are turning to the alternative option.

Aftermarket parts are not manufactured by the car maker but by 3rd party companies that make compatible parts designed to fit and perform the same or even better than the original.
This option is much friendlier to the consumer’s wallet and there’s also greater selection of products and suppliers to choose from, so the potential benefit here is better value and greater freedom.

Yet, an aftermarket part quality can vary when you compare one company to another and some of them come without warranty, so it’s advised to stick to popular and recommended brands that actually deserve your trust.