When you need auto parts for your car, truck, or SUV, buying the correct ones is essential. There are some things you can do to help ensure you get the right parts, but you need to plan and take some things with you to the auto parts store.
Take The Old Parts
When you are replacing a part on your car or truck, one of the best ways to ensure that you are getting the correct part for your vehicle is to remove the old parts and take them with you to the auto parts store. When the part counter associate pulls the new parts for you, comparing the old and the new parts is an excellent way to be sure they match.
Check the mounting holes or flanges, any wiring connections on the part, and the part orientation to ensure that it is laid out exactly like the old one, and will fit correctly in the spot for it on the car. Often taking the time to remove the part before going to the auto parts store can reduce confusion and make getting the correct part much easier.
If there is a core charge on the parts, like there often is for starters, alternators, and similar items, having the old parts with you means you will not have to pay the core fee upfront, and you may save some money on the new parts. Taking the old parts with you also means you do not need to return to the store later for core refunds.
Take Pictures
If the parts you are working with are large and heavy, taking them to the auto parts store may not be practical. In that case, take pictures of the part from multiple angles with your cell phone, and bring them to the store with you so that you have some references to look at instead of trying to remember how the part looked or fit on the vehicle.
If you can clean the parts up before photographing them, you may find it easier to see details on them that could be relevant. Get close-ups, wide angles, and as many other photos as you need to see everything that the part connects to and how those connections are made.
Relevant Information
Before heading to the auto parts store, grab the registration from your car, and take it with you. The registration shows the year, make, and model, the engine size, and most states include the VIN on it. If you have all this information, you can determine what part you need almost every time.
After struggling for years with a terrible car, I knew that it wasn't going to last another season. It was beat up, worn out, and completely unreliable. Instead of giving up on the car, I decided to talk with a friend of mine who was really great with vehicles. We worked together to take care of things, and we even found some great prices on auto parts to take care of business. When we were finished, the car ran like new, and I was really impressed with the results. If you like learning more about cars, read this blog to learn about everything from auto parts to routine repairs.