Car Parts – FAQ

• Quality:

These manufacturer products guarantee optimal quality and performance.

• Warranty:

These automobiles parts always come with a warranty.

• Price:

OEM auto parts can cost more than comparative aftermarket parts.

• Availability:

Parts Centers typically order certain parts from the manufacturer. If not already in stock, it will take a few days to get it in.

Should I Order Aftermarket Car Parts?

An aftermarket part is any car part that does not come directly from the vehicle’s maker, or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). These auto parts are certainly less-expensive options for the repair of your vehicle and technical upgrade. Independent, local shops and online retailers usually (though not necessarily) offer a wide selection of aftermarket automotive parts. These car parts are designed to function similarly as the OEM versions. However, aftermarket car parts have their own pros and cons.

• Quality:

Low price can suggest a lack of quality craftsmanship

• Warranty:

Aftermarket parts are not warrantied

• Price:

These automobile parts can be cheaper than OEM parts

• Availability:

Most independent car-repair shops have these parts readily available

Which Auto Parts Are The Most Costly to Replace?

While most basic automobile parts range from $150 to $500, some car part repairs can break your typical budget.

The most expensive automobile parts to repair are:

• Hybrid batteries – $6,000 and up
• Cylinders – Up to $10,000
• Transmission – $4,000 to $5,000
• Suspension – Up to $3,000
• Brake Lines – $1,000

When Should You Request OEM Parts?

Always purchase OEM parts when it comes to collision repair. non-manufacturer car repair products may not fit securely when your car, truck, or SUV has damaged body panels after the crash. Plus, installing aftermarket parts may void your leasing vehicle warranty. So, always use OEM parts for all types of vehicle repairs if you have a leased car.

What Vehicle Parts Are Covered/Not Covered Under Warranty?

A comprehensive auto manufacturer’s warranty doesn’t cover every single part. However, car buyers, can always choose something like a bumper-to-bumper warranty, factory warranty, and an extended warranty for the most comprehensive type of coverage. Even with an extended warranty, all your vehicle’s parts will likely not have coverage. Check out our coverage overview list below to learn more.

Powertrain Warranty Coverage:

• Engine
• Transmission
• Axles
• Gaskets
• Transfer Case

Covered By 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 With Warranty

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

Should I Order 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 Auto Parts from Amazon?

Undoubtedly, Amazon is a reputable online marketplace and provides customers with a convenient and easy site to buy quality auto parts. While most car parts sold by Amazon are from trusted sources, it can be a challenge for you to know if you’re getting the right product for your car or truck since you are not dealing with an automobile service center directly.

Can You Purchase Auto Parts at The Dealership?

Yes. The car dealership is one of the best places to purchase automotive parts. Most automotive dealerships only offer standard OEM manufacturer parts. Best of all, they can help you find specific parts for your vehicle with its VIN .

Can You Bring Your Own Auto Parts to The Auto Dealership?

You can always bring your own auto parts to a auto dealer. However, the dealer will not be able to warranty 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 purchasing any auto parts for installation. The auto-experts will also be able to diagnose the problem and acquire an appropriate replacement part, if needed.

Where Can I Order Aftermarket Car Parts Installed?

Bring your aftermarket vehicle part to a local auto dealer to have it installed. Before installation, a service technician will check the aftermarket vehicle part to see if it is suitable for your car. Even if they install the aftermarket auto part, however, the car dealer can only warranty the labor.

FAQ – Car Parts | Volkswagen of Alamo Heights