Regardless of whether you are a professional mechanic or a car enthusiast, buying auto parts online is becoming an alternative to shopping at brick-and-mortar stores in your city.
It’s convenient, fast and often cheaper. However, it is important not only to find a thematic platform with goods, but also consider some nuances when buying them online.
Find out the make, model and year of your vehicle
Before buying spare parts, it is important to know clearly the basic information about your car. This is basic data that will help you find the right parts. In addition, additional parameters may be required, such as engine size, gearbox type and body type. Most online stores have filters that allow you to quickly narrow down your selection based on these characteristics.
Use VIN code for exact selection
The VIN is a unique vehicle identifier that contains all the information about the configuration, engine and other important characteristics of the car. By adding this code to the search bar of the online store, you can find auto parts that are guaranteed to fit your vehicle. This will help avoid mistakes and buying incompatible parts. There is a search by VIN, for example, in the online store Exist.ua.
Part compatibility
Before completing your purchase, please make sure the part you choose is the right one for your vehicle. To do this, be sure to check the part number with the number stated in the vehicle’s service book or in the manual. In addition, sometimes auto parts manufacturers produce parts suitable for several car models at the same time, so carefully check compatibility on the store’s website or check with a consultant.
Original spare parts or analogues?
Original spare parts have a guaranteed quality, they fit your car perfectly, because they are created by the same manufacturer. However, their price is often higher than their analogues.
Analogs may be cheaper, but their quality varies depending on the manufacturer. Some third party companies make parts that are as good as the originals. However, there is a risk of buying low-quality or unsuitable parts.
If you are not sure about the manufacturer of the analogue, it is better to stick to the original spare parts to avoid potential problems with installation and operation.
Delivery costs and return conditions
This is critical if you are ordering large or heavy parts such as bumpers, body parts or exhaust systems. Make sure that the cost of shipping does not exceed the benefit from buying online.
It is also important to check the return policy. Some stores may not accept parts back if the packaging has been opened or if the part is not compatible with your vehicle.
Check certificates and warranties
This is important when purchasing complex parts and assemblies, such as engines, gearboxes or brake system elements. Having a certificate guarantees that the spare part has passed the necessary quality tests and meets safety standards.
Source: korrespondent
I’m Liza Grey, an experienced news writer and author at the Buna Times. I specialize in writing about economic issues, with a focus on uncovering stories that have a positive impact on society. With over seven years of experience in the news industry, I am highly knowledgeable about current events and the ways in which they affect our daily lives.