There can be many instances that you need or want to buy new auto parts for your car, truck, or SUV. To help you out, we asked our automotive service and parts members some frequently asked questions. This is what they had to say.
OEM auto parts are the “Original Equipment Manufacturer” parts. They are manufactured for unique car models by the manufacturer. These are the exactly-matching parts that your vehicle has. They come with a limited warranty. Auto Dealers use your VIN Number to find the correct OEM part for your car, truck, or SUV.
These branded manufacturer parts insure reliable performance and quality.
These automobiles parts always come with a warranty.
These top of the line parts can cost more than comparable aftermarket parts.
Service Centers typically order certain OEM parts from the manufacturer. This can take a few days if it is not already in stock.
An aftermarket part is any car or truck part that is not sourced directly from the vehicle’s maker, or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). These parts may be less-expensive options for the repair of your car and mechanical advancements. Local, independent shops and online retailers generally (though not necessarily) offer a variety of aftermarket car parts. These automotive parts are created to function similarly to the OEM versions. Aftermarket car parts, however, have their own pros and cons.
Low price often signal a lack of quality craftsmanship
Aftermarket parts don’t come with a warranty
These auto parts can be more affordable than OEM manufacturer parts
Most car-repair shops have these parts readily available
While basic automobile part costs range from $150 to $500, some auto part repairs can break a budget.
Always purchase manufacturer parts for collision repair. non-OEM car parts may not fit properly when your car, truck, or SUV has damaged body panels after the crash. Plus, installing aftermarket parts may void your lease vehicle warranty. So, always use manufacturer parts for all lease vehicle repairs.
A comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty necessarily doesn’t cover every single part. Car buyers, however, can generally choose something like a factory warranty, an extended warranty, or bumper-to-bumper for the most comprehensive type of coverage. Even with an extended warranty, all of your car’s parts may not be covered. Here is a list of what’s covered and what’s not.
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.
Unquestionably, Amazon is a reputed marketplace that provides shoppers with an easy and convenient place to purchase quality car parts. While most auto parts sold by Amazon are from trusted sources, it can be a challenge to know if you’re getting the right item for your car or truck since you are not dealing directly with an automobile expert.
Yes, you can purchase car parts at the dealership. Most automotive dealers only sell standard OEM manufacturer parts. Most of all, they can help you find specific parts for your vehicle with its VIN .
You can always bring your own auto parts to a car dealership. However, the dealer can neither warranty the part you’ve purchased, nor will they be able to guarantee its performance. It is highly recommended to get your vehicle checked by an certified service center at a local dealer before buying any parts for installation. The certified mechanic will also diagnose the actual problem and recommend the required replacement part, if needed.
Bring your aftermarket auto part to a local car dealership to have it installed. Before installation, a service technician will check the aftermarket car part to see if it is suitable for your car, truck, SUV, or minivan. Even if they install the aftermarket part, however, the dealership can only issue warranty on the labor.
FAQ – Car Parts | Sterling McCall Acura
(713) 596-2300
Call Now10505 Southwest FWY β’ Houston, TX 77074
Get DirectionsOpen Today! Sales: 9am-8pm
Open Today! Service: 7am-6pm
Open Today! Parts: 7am-6pm