Auto Repair PartsAuto repair parts can be confusing. If you do diy auto repair then you know how hard it can be to find the right part for the right price. This auto parts buying guide will help you decide what type of part you need and what will be involved in buying the right part for your car.3 Basic Auto Part Categories1) New OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) PartsIf you take your car to a dealership they will only use OEM parts. This is part of the reason why dealership repairs are so much more expensive. Generally speaking OEM parts are much more expensive than aftermarket or used parts. 2) New Aftermarket Parts If you take your car to an independent repair shop they will almost always use aftermarket parts unless you specifically ask them to use only OEM parts. These are the same parts that the dealerships would use. In some cases it is better to use OEM parts because they are better quality, but usually there will not be any difference. The most important thing is that they are covered under the repair shop warranty. 3) Used Parts If you are buying a very expensive item that doesn't need to be new and no one will ever see (things like a PCM, transmission, etc.) then used is a great way to go. There are some important things to know when buying used car parts. Click on the link at the top to learn more. What's The Best Option?The best option for you all depends on what type of part you are looking for and what it is for. If you are buying a commonly used part, like brake parts, then I highly recommend buying aftermarket parts, but if you are buying a more specialized part then you might only be able to get it from a dealer or a junkyard. There are some things that you will want to buy from the dealer even if aftermarket parts are available. For example, some people buy aftermarket "universal" oxygen sensors. The problem with this is that even though they are advertised as being "compatible" with any car, in reality they are not.If you are trying to save money then you really need to focus on aftermarket and used car parts. These types of parts will save you a lot of money. When I buy part for my vehicles I generally buy out of those two categories. If you are looking for Toyota parts and information about your Toyota vehicle here is a site that I recommend: Toyota parts buyer's guide. Tips on buying auto parts. Leave auto repair parts and go back to the homepage New! CommentsHave your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below. |
