FAQ – Auto Parts
Where Can I Purchase Certified BMW Auto Parts in Beaumont, TX?
There may be many instances in which you need or want to buy new auto parts for your vehicle. To help you decide, we’ve asked our automotive parts and service experts a few frequently asked questions. This is what they said.
Should I Buy OEM Parts?
OEM auto parts designate the “Original Equipment Manufacturer” parts. They are manufactured for unique car, truck, and SUV models by the OEM. These are your vehicle’s exact-matching parts. They are sold with a limited warranty. Dealers use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to find the correct part for your car or truck.
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Quality:
These manufacturer branded product parts provide top quality and performance.
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Warranty:
These automobiles parts always come with a limited warranty.
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Price:
OEM parts can cost more than comparable aftermarket items.
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Availability:
Parts Centers generally order specific OEM parts from the manufacturer. This can take a few days if it is not already in stock.
Should I Get Aftermarket Automotive Parts?
An aftermarket part is any car or truck part that is not sourced directly from the vehicle’s manufacturer, or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). These car parts may be less-expensive for the repair of your vehicle and advancements. Online retailers and independent, local shops may (though not necessarily) offer a variety of aftermarket parts. These car parts are made to function similarly as the OEM versions. Aftermarket parts, however, have their own pros and cons.
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Quality:
Low price could signal a lack of quality
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Warranty:
These parts don’t come with a warranty
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Price:
These car parts are more affordable than manufacturer/OEM parts
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Availability:
Most independent car-repair shops have these parts readily available
Which Automobile Parts Are Most Expensive to Repair?
While basic automobile parts range from $150 to $500, some part repairs can actually break a budget.
The auto parts most expensive to repair are:
- Transmission – $4,000 to $5,000
- Brake Lines – $1,000
- Suspensions – Up to $3,000
- Cylinders – Up to $10,000
- Hybrid batteries – $6,000 and up
When Should You Require OEM Parts?
Always purchase OEM parts when it comes to collision repairs. Aftermarket automotive parts may not fit securely when your vehicle has damaged body panels after the crash. Plus, an aftermarket part installation may void your leasing vehicle warranty. Therefore, always use OEM parts for all types of vehicle repairs if you have a leased car.
What Auto Parts Are Covered/Not Covered Under Warranty?
A complete auto manufacturer’s warranty necessarily doesn’t cover every part. Car buyers, however, can usually choose something like a factory warranty, an extended warranty, or bumper-to-bumper for the most comprehensive type of coverage. Even for an extended warranty, all of your car’s parts will likely not have coverage. Here is a list of what’s covered and what’s not.
Covered Under Powertrain Warranty:
- Transmission
- Gaskets
- Engine
- Transfer Case
- Axles
Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty Coverage:
- High-tech systems
- All major vehicle systems
- Safety features
- AC and heating
Extended Warranty Coverage:
- Extends coverage of all items under original Factory Warranty
Not Covered With Warranty
- Scheduled maintenance
- Wear and tear items
- Body panel or exterior damage
- Interior damage
- Accidental damage
- Environmental damage
Should I Purchase Car 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 Car Parts from Amazon?
Indisputably, Amazon is a reputable online marketplace that provides shoppers with an easy and convenient platform to find 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 product for your car since you are not dealing with an auto service center directly.
Can You Buy Car or Truck Parts at The Car Dealership?
Yes. The auto dealership is one of the best places to purchase car parts. Most auto dealers only offer standard manufacturer parts. Most of all, they can use your vehicle identification number to identify the correct part for your car or truck.
Can You Bring Your Own Auto Parts to The Dealership?
You can always bring your own auto parts to a dealership. The dealer, however, is unable to warranty the purchased part, nor can they guarantee its performance. It is highly recommended to get your vehicle checked by an experienced service center at a local auto dealer before buying any parts for installation. The certified mechanic will also be able to diagnose the actual problem and order an appropriate replacement part, if necessary.
Where Can I Get Aftermarket Auto Parts Installed?
Bring your aftermarket vehicle part to a local auto dealer to have it installed. Before installation, a service technician at the dealership will check the aftermarket auto part to see if it is a match for your car, truck, SUV, or minivan. Even if they install the aftermarket auto part, however, the car dealership can only warranty the labor.
FAQ – Auto Parts
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