So why did we decide to publish an article with the title “How to choose car parts? Recommendations from Specialists”? Even the most reliable and modern car periodically needs maintenance and repair. Unfortunately, there are no eternal engines, transmissions, or brake systems. Each component has its own operational lifespan, which may decrease due to negative operating factors. Sooner or later, there is a need for replacement, along with the sensible question: which spare part to choose for the repair?
General recommendations on how to choose car parts? Recommendations from Specialists
When contemplating the purchase of a new car part, the driver typically focuses on two key factors: the quality and the cost of the product. Regarding the former, there is a natural inclination for the car’s technical condition to be restored to “as good as new” after the repair, or possibly enhanced through the incorporation of more advanced innovations than the basic ones.
Simultaneously, the desire to economize without unnecessarily overpaying for the product is equally understandable. The combination of these two factors forms the foundation for any decision. While the cost is evident – it is indicated by the price tag – choosing a genuinely high-quality, superior part from the multitude of products with approximately the same price is not a straightforward task.
Understanding the purpose of the part helps determine when it’s acceptable to compromise slightly on quality to save funds and when it is strongly advised against.
- For ensuring safety – the braking system, steering control, and other active and passive passenger and driver protection devices – these are the components that determine health and life. Saving on them is like smoking at a gas station. Perhaps, it’s not the best idea…
- Parts designed for the reliable operation of the car. Failure of components like spark plugs or ignition coils won’t lead to a tragedy. At most, it may result in accelerated engine wear. Here, the decision often needs to be made individually: what’s more important, peace of mind on the road or the one-time savings of a few bucks, after which you might have to spend thousands on a more serious breakdown.
- Parts are designed for comfort and prestige. Among such components are those that, as drivers joke, “don’t affect speed.” Air conditioning units, cabin heaters, multimedia systems, locks, handles, and other car “conveniences” are purchased at a price and quality that the owner deems optimal. The same approach applies to various suspensions and other decorative elements: if there’s a desire to pay for a “show-off,” who’s going to stop you?
Read about car breakdowns and maintenance in our other articles.
Only original auto parts?
Most automotive experts recommend using exclusively original parts for car repairs. By original parts, they mean those that are supplied to assembly lines for the production of new cars. It’s no secret that most automotive conglomerates today essentially function as assembly plants (or only produce a specific part of the necessary components for assembly).
The lion’s share of parts is supplied by companies selected by brands through tenders. The products are subjected to rigorous requirements (based on both the results of technical research and current standards). Quality control is equally stringent. Manufacturers of such parts do not allow low-quality products; exceeding the set standards would mean the loss of lucrative contracts (with many eager to take the “sweet” spot) and possibly contractually specified penalties.
According to agreements, a certain percentage of original parts may be supplied to wholesale and retail markets. These products usually bear the logo of both the manufacturer and the emblem of the automotive brand. It is the 100% quality guarantee that makes these parts the most expensive. They represent the “elite” segment of parts for any car.
Identifying the manufacturer of specific original parts is quite straightforward. The easiest way is to visit the website of the automotive conglomerate or its official regional representation. Entering the vehicle data—make model, year of manufacture—will provide a list of suppliers (sometimes there may be several).
Counterfeit original auto parts
Sometimes, drivers share their indignation about being offered an unclear part ‘with visible surface damage.’ Yet, they were assured that the product’s quality was comparable to the original. There is no need to hastily accuse sellers of unprofessionalism or, worse, dishonesty.
Quite often, parts suppliers to assembly lines legitimately make extra money by selling additional batches in the markets. According to international legislation, using the logo of the automotive conglomerate is prohibited in this case. Since the products are manufactured in the same facilities, these markings are already applied. There are two ways: make adjustments to the production line or mechanically remove the ‘extra’ label. The second method is cheaper, faster, and therefore more commonly used.
Such a part from the supplier is no longer considered original but falls into the category of analogs. However, in essence, it does not differ from the original:
- Manufactured from high-quality materials;
- Utilizes state-of-the-art equipment for production;
- Undergoes rigorous quality control for all components.
The price of ‘original analogs,’ however, is tens of percent lower than those sold under the automotive company’s brand. Therefore, such products are considered the most optimal in terms of the ‘price-quality’ ratio.
Hidden ‘originals’ can be found under the logo of a packaging company. This structure signs contracts to purchase wholesale batches of goods with the right to subsequently sell them under its own trademark. Sometimes, they complement the parts with specific components and create packaging (hence the name) with their own brand. There are many well-known packagers globally who have built a good reputation by collaborating only with high-quality manufacturers. Products under their brand, acquired from assembly line suppliers, will have the same technical specifications as the original.
Analogues of good and poor quality
Consider the second type of similar parts, which is the production from manufacturers not serving assembly lines but known for the high quality of their products. For instance, numerous well-known companies produce brake pads at a modern level. Naturally, not all of them can become suppliers. Those who lost the tender or did not participate can focus on the aftermarket, producing goods either “under license” or at their own risk. In this case, the main technical parameters may not only be comparable but even better than the originals.
Expert advice and numerous automotive forums can help in identifying such companies. However, it is important to remember that not all manufacturers are “universal”: their products may work excellently in some car designs and be “disappointing” in others. Therefore, choosing analogs is typically made for a specific car model with all its peculiarities.
Within the honest entrepreneur crowd, some bad apples profit from producing unscrupulous products. Fortunately, they typically don’t last long; negative reviews accumulate quickly, leading them to disappear, only to reappear in a new segment or under a new name. Protecting oneself from such dealers is aided by a simple rule: don’t chase cheapness when purchasing unclear products from an “unknown guy.”
Worse than shoddy craftsmanship are those who engage in producing low-quality counterfeits of well-known brands. The only way to guard against them is by choosing a responsible seller and verifying the quality compliance certificate that must accompany the product.
Where to buy auto parts
To purchase spare parts (at least for popular models), there should be no problem, and you can go shopping for them:
- The simplest and quickest way is to submit a request for auto parts on mynextparts.com;
- you can go shopping for spare parts in specialized stores focused on selling parts for a specific brand;
- in large auto shops that collaborate with official suppliers of parts from manufacturers;
- in regular auto stores;
- at the market, or at a car dismantling yard.
Reserving the last option for those who enjoy unnecessary risks is advisable. Buying used parts, especially for critical components, should only be considered in exceptional cases, despite their lower cost.
The first three types of stores pose the least risk of providing subpar goods. These stores typically prioritize their reputation, and their established connections with suppliers enable them to promptly address any accidental defects, preventing the sale of faulty items. Reputable stores won’t necessitate you to request a certificate; their consultants will offer to provide it themselves. They handle returns and replacements without hassle, in accordance with the law. Importantly, they assist in selecting the best product within your price range. Even those unfamiliar with technical details can obtain the desired item by providing the 17-character VIN code of the car.
A similar customer-oriented approach exists in many ‘regular’ stores and even at auto markets. Unfortunately, some stores solely focus on selling products without much concern for quality. Therefore, the crucial rule is to buy auto parts only from reliable, time-tested sellers with a good reputation. They are just as interested as the customer in delivering high-quality products.
What to look for when purchasing auto parts?
Regardless of where the purchase takes place, it is essential to thoroughly inspect the product. As various parts serve different purposes (and thus have different key parameters), providing a universal step-by-step guide is not possible. For example, for a battery, it is important to check the capacity, for cylinder head gaskets – integrity, and for a starter or pump – the absence of play. Regardless of the type of part, you should:
- Carefully inspect the packaging: check the print quality, look for damages, and read any labels.
- Conduct an external examination of the parts: be cautious of any signs of dirt, usage, obvious geometric irregularities, and low-quality processing (however, as mentioned earlier, potential signs of grinding should not be a cause for concern).
- Verify key parameters specific to the particular part.
- Ensure the presence of a quality certificate.
- Check the accuracy of the warranty certificate and the availability of the purchase receipt.
Online stores for spare parts: convenience or risk
The rapid development of the “worldwide web” has opened unprecedented boundaries for interactions between sellers and buyers. Today, you can buy any auto part without leaving your own home.
Among the main advantages of online stores are:
- Availability of a wide range of original and aftermarket parts for all car brands.
- Convenient search options by groups or unique codes.
- Assistance from experienced consultants.
- Fast delivery times.
- Option to pay through the most convenient methods.
- Product return guarantee in accordance with current legislation.
Advanced online stores continually analyze the auto parts market, monitoring demand trends, and staying updated on the emergence of new products. They optimize their catalogs to meet customers’ needs to the fullest extent. A substantial portion of these stores’ turnover comes from repeat and subsequent orders. Therefore, these stores invest considerable efforts in cultivating a base of loyal customers who recognize the benefits of buying parts without the inconvenience of navigating physical stores or engaging in the often lengthy search for rare components.
However, not everyone capitalizes on the opportunity for online purchases. The primary reason is the apprehension about making an incorrect choice or acquiring a subpar product without the ability to physically assess it beforehand.
Naturally, scammers inevitably emerge wherever money is involved. But is the risk genuinely significant? Automotive forums rapidly disseminate both positive and negative reviews, leaving dishonest sellers with minimal chances of success.
Mynextparts.com offers a unique opportunity to quickly find any auto part among hundreds of auto shops and dismantlers with impeccable reputations. Choose the right part, compare prices and delivery times – and make advantageous purchases through the mynextparts.com service!
