Is it Safe to Buy Replacement Car Parts Online? How to Buy Car Parts Online Safely
- Online shopping is convenient, but you do have to be careful when it comes to buying car parts.
- There is a difference between aftermarket and genuine OEM parts, and you need to know what to look for.
- The internet makes it easier for scammers and illegitimate parts dealers to attempt to rip off unsuspecting consumers.
- By finding a reputable replacement parts dealer, you’ll be able to trust you are getting the right parts and a safe transaction.
- Start by finding a reputable parts dealer that is certified and authorised to sell genuine OEM replacement parts and accessories. When you find a proper website to work with, you’ll be able to trust that your parts are genuine and your information is secure.
- Never buy parts from social marketplaces or sites like eBay. Not only do you run the risk of getting ripped off by an unscrupulous party, but you can’t guarantee what you are getting. If your parts show up and are incorrect or don’t work as they should, it could prove to be impossible to get your money back or have any guarantee to back up your purchase. Stick to licensed, professional parts dealers at all costs.
- Don’t buy used auto parts if you can help it. While they may offer some cost savings initially, you again run the risk of not knowing precisely what you are getting or what the parts have been through before getting to you.
- Never buy OEM parts without a warranty. Since these parts are from the manufacturer, they should always come with some warranty to ensure proper fit and operation. If you find parts that claim to be genuine but they don’t offer a warranty, they’re probably fakes.
- Remember the “too good to be true” philosophy. If you are searching for replacement parts and you find one retailer that happens to have an unusually low price, you should be a little suspicious until you check things out. OEM parts all come from the same place, so prices should be similar from one dealer or store to the next. If someone is offering a considerable discount without explanation, they’re probably not selling genuine parts.
- If you are looking for upgrades or premium accessories, you may be looking for aftermarket parts. These are fine to buy in many cases, but again you’ll want to look for aftermarket items that are manufacturer-recommended or approved to ensure that you get quality parts with a proper fit.
