Car Parts – FAQ

• Quality:

These branded manufacturer products insure top performance and quality.

• Warranty:

These automobiles parts come with a manufacturer limited warranty.

• Price:

OEM top of the line parts can cost more than comparable aftermarket parts.

• Availability:

Auto Dealers usually order specific parts from the manufacturer. This may take a few days if it is not already in stock.

Should I Order Aftermarket Auto Parts?

An aftermarket part is any part for a vehicle that is not sourced directly from the vehicle’s manufacturer, or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). These auto parts are certainly less-expensive for your vehicle’s repair and advancements. Online retailers and independent, local shops generally (though not necessarily) offer a variety of aftermarket car parts. These auto parts are made to function similarly to the OEM versions. However, aftermarket parts have their own pros and cons.

• Quality:

Low prices could signal a lower quality

• Warranty:

Aftermarket parts are not warrantied

• Price:

These car parts are cheaper than manufacturer parts

• Availability:

These parts are readily available at most independent car-repair shops

Which Parts Are The Most Expensive to Replace?

While most basic auto parts range between $150 to $500, some automobile part repairs can actually break your budget.

The most costly automotive parts to repair are:

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

When Should You Order OEM Parts?

Always purchase manufacturer parts for collision repair. Aftermarket auto repair products may not fit properly when your car or truck has damaged body panels after the crash. Plus, installing aftermarket parts may void your leasing vehicle warranty. Therefore, 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. Car buyers, however, can 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 your car’s parts may not have coverage. Check out our coverage overview list below to learn more.

Covered Under Powertrain Warranty:

• Engine
• Transmission
• Axles
• Gaskets
• Transfer Case

Covered Under Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty:

• All major vehicle systems
• AC and heating
• Safety features
• High-tech systems

Extended Warranty Coverage:

• Extends coverage of all items under original Factory Warranty

Not Covered Under Warranty

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

Is Craigslist a Good Place to Purchase Car Parts?

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 Automotive Parts from Amazon?

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

Can You Buy Vehicle Parts at The Dealership?

Yes. The auto dealership is one of the best places to purchase auto parts. Most automotive dealers only sell standard manufacturer OEM parts. Most of all, they can use your vehicle identification number to identify the correct part for your vehicle.

Can You Bring Your Own Auto Parts to The Dealership?

You can always bring your own parts to a dealer. However, the auto dealer will not be able to 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 a certified service technician at a local auto dealer before purchasing any auto parts for installation. The factory-trained technician will also be able to diagnose the actual problem and order the required replacement part if needed.

Who Installs Aftermarket Auto Parts?

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

FAQ – Auto Parts | Volkswagen of Milwaukee North