Don’t Break the Bank on Brakes

Posted on: 3 October 2017

For DIY mechanics, buying engine parts used to mean spending the day at a local junkyard searching for specific parts. But, thanks to the internet, you can now buy almost anything you need online-including new and used engine parts. Buying parts online is definitely a great way to avoid the problem of having to spend hours in a junkyard finding and removing the parts you need, but it can also be risky buying a part you won't see until it is delivered. Here are a few tips to make the process of buying engine parts online more successful:

Know the VIN

You should always keep the vehicle identification number (VIN) handy. This number is unique to your vehicle, which allows you to determine the make, model and year of manufacture for your vehicle as well as request a VIN check on secondhand engines or used parts that you are considering buying so you'll know its history. Knowing the history of a particular engine can help you avoid buying faulty parts.

Read the Manual

In some situations, reading the manufacturers manual can help you find certain parts. The manual will often include detailed product information about the specification of certain parts. This is especially helpful if there were different models of the same vehicle with engine parts with small differences. Even something as small as a different bolt type can be the difference between the part you need fitting or not fitting.

Compare Prices

Don't be too quick to buy the first part you come across, especially if searching places such as online auctions and keep in mind that if a price seems too low for an otherwise expensive part, it may be due to the condition. Take your time and research several sites, including sites that sell new parts (sometimes new is less expensive than used). When comparing prices, make sure to carefully read the information provided about the part you need to ensure the condition matches the price.

Verify the Seller

The internet is packed with fraudulent sellers, so it is important to make sure you are buying from a reputable company or private seller. There are a couple of different ways to verify the seller, such as reading a private seller's online reviews that have been left by other buyers or an online business can usually be verified by checking the Better Business Bureau website for any negative responses.

When buying engine parts online, be sure to ask the seller about their return policy, just in case the part doesn't fit or it is damaged. Make sure you are aware of the time period in which you can return a part, ask about shipping costs to return the part and if the seller gives a refund or only offers a replacement part. Contact a company like Dean's Auto Repair Inc for more information and assistance.