FAQ – Car Parts

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Should I Buy OEM Parts?

OEM auto parts designate the “Original Equipment Manufacturer” parts. They are created for specific car or SUV models by the OEM. These are your vehicle’s exact-matching parts. They include a limited warranty. Service Centers use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to source the right OEM part for your car or SUV.

• Quality:

These branded manufacturer products guarantee top quality and performance.

• Warranty:

These automobiles parts always come with a manufacturer limited warranty.

• Price:

OEM top of the line auto parts can cost more than comparable aftermarket products.

• Availability:

Car Dealers typically order specific parts from the manufacturer. If not already in stock, it can take a few days to get it in.

Should I Get Aftermarket Parts?

An aftermarket part is any part for a car or SUV that is not provided directly from the vehicle’s maker, or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). These parts may be less-expensive options for your vehicle’s repair and mechanical upgrade. Independent, local shops and online retailers may (though not necessarily) offer a wide variety of aftermarket parts. These auto parts are made to function similarly as the OEM versions. Aftermarket automotive parts, however, have their own pros and cons.

• Quality:

Low prices often suggest a lower quality craftsmanship

• Warranty:

Aftermarket parts don’t come with a warranty

• Price:

These car parts can be cheaper than the manufacturer parts

• Availability:

Most auto-repair shops have these parts readily available

Which Auto Parts Are Most Costly to Repair?

While most basic parts range between $150 to $500, some automotive part repairs can break an average budget.

The automotive parts most expensive to repair are:

• Transmissions – $4,000 to $5,000
• Brake Line – $1,000
• Suspension – Up to $3,000
• Cylinders – Up to $10,000
• Hybrid battery – $6,000 and up

When Should You Order OEM Parts?

Always purchase manufacturer parts when it comes to collision repairs. non-manufacturer auto parts may not fit properly when your vehicle has damaged body panels after the crash. Plus, an aftermarket part installation may void your lease vehicle warranty. As Such, always use OEM parts for all lease vehicle repairs.

Which Car Parts Are Covered or Not Covered Under Warranty?

A comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty doesn’t cover every part. However, car buyers, can usually choose something like an extended warranty, bumper-to-bumper, and factory warranty for the most comprehensive coverage. Even for an extended warranty, all of your car’s parts will likely not be covered. Here is a list of what’s covered and what’s not.

Powertrain Warranty Coverage:

• Engine
• Transmission
• Axles
• Gaskets
• Transfer Case

Covered Under Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty:

• High-tech systems
• All major vehicle systems
• Safety features
• AC and heating

Covered With Extended Warranty:

• Extends coverage of all items under original Factory Warranty

Not Covered Under Warranty

• Accidental damage
• Body panel or exterior damage
• Scheduled maintenance
• Environmental damage
• Wear and tear items
• Interior damage

Should I Buy Automotive Parts from Craigslist?

Craigslist is not an auto retailer; but on this online platform, third-party vendors sell automotive parts. For this reason, the quality cannot be guaranteed. If you are buying car parts from this source, make sure to research, verify, and compare before the purchase.

Should I Purchase Car Parts from Amazon?

Certainly, Amazon is a reputable online marketplace and provides shoppers with an easy and convenient place to find quality car parts. While most automotive parts sold by Amazon are from reliable sources, it can be hard for you to know if you’re getting the right product for your car or SUV since you are not dealing with an automobile service center directly.

Can You Order Vehicle Parts at The Dealer?

Yes. The auto dealership is one of the best places to shop for automotive parts. Most automotive dealerships only source standard OEM parts. Best of all, they can use your vehicle identification number to find the correct part for your car or SUV.

Can You Bring Your Own Parts to The Auto Dealership?

You can always bring your own auto parts to a car dealer. However, the dealer will not be able to issue warranty on the purchased part, nor will they be able to guarantee its performance. It is highly recommended to get your vehicle checked by an experienced service center at a local car dealer before ordering any auto parts for installation. The factory-trained technician will also be able to diagnose the problem and order an appropriate replacement part, if necessary.

Where Can I Purchase Aftermarket Car Parts Installed?

Bring your aftermarket car or SUV part to a local car dealership to get it installed. Before installation, a service technician will check the aftermarket auto part to verify if it is a match for your car or SUV. Even if they install the aftermarket auto part, however, the dealer can only provide a warranty on the labor.

Car Parts – FAQ