After years of consecutive growth, auto sales continue to scale upward. The global automotive aftermarket industry will reach $700 billion by 2020.
Consumers these days are more attached to their vehicles and keeping them longer. Fortunately, maintenance is no longer an issue thanks to the growing number of servicing companies.
This rising demand for the best auto parts and services is spurring revenue and new opportunities for a wide range of businesses. At the same time, the cost of replacement parts can be shocking for car owners.
So how can you find what you need for your car and keep the costs low? Here are some tips to help you out:
Know Where to Go Online
Every shopper should know these two websites that offer the world’s largest database of auto parts, used and brand new: CarPart.com and eBay.
eBay is pretty straightforward; everybody knows how it works. Simply search for the lowest prices on the best auto parts, and then check the estimated time of delivery. Some car parts, especially from overseas, will take about a month to reach the destination.
CarPart is handy too. It allows you to check the prices in your local area. Once you find the best price, take note, and give the store a visit.
Be Polite When Haggling
There’s a misconception going around that used car parts will do you no good. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Brand new auto parts are always a thing of joy. However, if you’re short on money, local retailers and even junkyards are your friends. The best part is that you can haggle, but always be polite.
Local retailers have this courtesy of matching the price of another for obvious reasons. But be knowledgeable on the parts you’re looking at, and make sure your dealer has the same price list as you do.
Be honest about your concerns. The seller will appreciate that, and will likely give you the best value.
Buy the Best Auto Parts Using Coupons
It goes without saying that car parts are expensive, but there’s a way to slash off prices: coupons!
The Internet is home to coupon websites that offer manufacturer rebates and codes you may not see in car parts stores online. Some even offer free delivery and a lifetime warranty.
Online stores offer a wide range of products, from filters and LS1 engines to more expensive and rare car parts.
To get the most out of a coupon, let’s say one has a $40 off on purchases $100 and up. If your order is below $100, add some items you’re likely to use in the future, such as a coolant and filters. You’ll need them anyway.
Hunt for Rare Auto Parts in Your Area Yourself
Classics, high-end models, and hybrid vehicles have unique parts that are often listed as not available online. It’s possible that the replacement you’re looking for is available on the manufacturer’s website, but your goal here is to save as much as you can.
This is why you have to hunt for that specific replacement in person.
A local retailer or a junkyard nearby may have it among their clusters of replacement parts. Most times, you can purchase them at a more affordable price. Still, expect unique auto parts to be pricier than regular ones.
Since you need to make sure it’s the correct model for your car, go and see it for yourself.
Befriend Other Car Enthusiasts
Every kind of enthusiast uses the Internet, so you’ll likely to find fellow car geeks for sure. They reside in auto forums, which provide a ton of information on each car’s make and model. These platforms can also help you find the best auto parts available.
Some forums you should try out are the Autoforum Universe, CarForums, AutoForums, and Automotive Forums. They all are similar in a way, but each has its perks.
The people you’ll find here are knowledgeable when it comes to car models and makes. They devote most of their time researching and geeking out. You’ll find yourself thanking them for the excellent information.
When All Else Fails, Talk to Your Dealer
So you’ve nearly scoured the entirety of the Internet but haven’t found what you’re looking for. In this case, it’s time to pay your local dealer a visit.
Don’t be so hard on them. After all, they depend on manufacturer price, so don’t put all the blame on them if a car part seems too expensive.
There’s a huge benefit from buying from retailers. They’re a reliable source of information, with a broad background in various car parts. If you’re looking for the best auto parts, they can assess your needs and make recommendations.
Your local industrial supplier might have a website too. This means you get to view their products 24/7. Pay them a visit if something piques your Internet within office hours.
Have You Found a Replacement Part Yet?
Repairing your car can be a daunting task, especially if you’re bent on doing the service and replacements yourself. It’s a good thing you don’t need to travel miles thanks to the Internet and, of course, your local retailer.
The best advice any car enthusiast will give you about the best auto parts is to do research. This is particularly important if you don’t know much about it.
After all, you don’t want to waste your time and hard-earned money on the wrong car part.
Another thing worth considering is the seller’s return or exchange policy.
While most second-hand dealers don’t offer this commodity, authorized dealers do so. In case you make a mistake, it’ll be easier to return your order without having to beg or argue with the seller.
Get more tips on servicing and maintenance, or finding the best second-hand cars! Still confused? Drop a comment, and we’ll do our best to answer it.