Whether you’re looking to update your vehicle due to necessity, aesthetics and performance, or all of the above, knowing how to source the right parts from the right vendor is key when it comes to guaranteeing the best fit and performance. Online vendors have made shopping for components significantly easier, but it’s not always obvious to tell which aftermarket seller carries the best inventory as well as the best deals.
At Central Alberta Paint Supply (better known as CAPS by our customers!), we know how important it is to find a vendor that matches up quality, availability and pricing to ensure you get the best deal possible when fixing or enhancing your vehicle. With decades of experience behind our team, we’re proud to help Albertans source the auto body parts they need when it matters most. Below, we’ll take a look at what to keep in mind when shopping for car parts online. Read on to learn more!
Always Do Your Research (Part One)
There’s no shortage of online vendors, but the unfortunate reality of ordering parts “sight unseen” is that you may not always get what you bargained for if you haven’t done your research. When it comes to vetting a merchandiser, look for a proven track record of customer satisfaction, positive reviews, partnerships with original parts manufacturers, and more.
Always Do Your Research (Part Two)
One of the biggest mistakes people make when buying aftermarket parts is failing to verify whether or not they’ll actually fit your car. With regard to matching parts to your vehicle: Always consult your VIN, and if necessary, contact the manufacturer directly to get the appropriate part number/SKU. It’s crucial to remember that just because something “should” fit doesn’t mean that it will, online auto-generators can be prone to error, and if your vehicle has any after-market modifications, OEM parts may or may not fit accordingly. For the best results, having the exact part number is necessary.
Check Authenticity and Quality
While you’re doing your research on vendors, it’s important to make sure you understand exactly what they carry. Not all sellers make it easy to tell whether they sell new or used parts, and for the best/safest results, it’s usually essential to make sure you know you have an OEM-certified part from a reputable dealer.
While second-hand stores or online marketplaces like Facebook or Kijiji may have some “great” deals, the reality is, that the buyer often has no way of knowing the actual quality of the product they’re buying as well as any other hidden details that may lead to further complications and leave you stranded with a lack of warranty. To avoid these pitfalls, always look at certifications, such as ISO standards, and check if the parts are compliant with industry regulations.
Verify Secure Payment Options
Many online vendors, including our team here at CAPS offer both online and in-person purchase options, but for mechants that are exclusively online, it’s crucial to verify that they use a secure payment method to protect yourself against fraud, phishing, and other dangers. Look for websites with SSL encryption, and consider using trusted payment gateways such as PayPal or credit cards, which offer additional layers of protection. Avoid sharing sensitive information through insecure channels and double-check the website’s URL to ensure it begins with “https://” before making any transactions.
Understand Shipping and Return Policies
Just like purchasing from a physical store, it’s important to be aware that different sellers will have their own independent return and shipping policies. Reputable vendors will make it easy to follow your order and facilitate easy returns in the rare case that your item arrives damaged or does not work for your vehicle.
Always Compare
Finally, in order to protect yourself as a consumer, it’s always a best practice to compare and know your general market before making a purchase. Cross-reference the cost and availability of items across multiple reputable dealers, and wherever possible, afford yourself the extra time to research any additional details as needed.
Your Choice For Autobody Parts and More
For all of your autobod needs, CAPS is proud to keep you covered! We’re proud to be Alberta’s one-stop shop for the autobody supplies that you need to touch up any vehicle. Contact our team to learn more!