Autoparts Storeauto Zone Wal Marttarget Pep Boys Napa
I like to classify auto parts stores in 3 categories. Depending on what you're looking for will help you decide which one to choose.
First, there are the retailers that sell auto parts in addition to just about everything else. This can be like a Wal-mart or Target that sells the basics like car wash, touch up paint, filters, etc. Here the prices will be reasonable and the parts good enough to not fall off your car as you exit the parking lot assuming you make it out.
The next stage is the intermediates these are usually the best choice having a combination of well-respected brands at a lower cost. Stores like Napa, Pep Boys, and Auto Zone will have almost everything you need for auto parts. Most of the parts will be correct 90% of the time but you will find that some items just simply do not fit because the aftermarket companies did not copy the design right. This can be frustrating because you don't want to wait until you have your car on jack stands to find out that the rotors you bought don't fit. Be prepared to match your old part with the new one in many cases. Also don't expect them to have everything; some parts are strictly dealer items that are only available at the dealer.
Dealer parts will almost always cost more but usually will be correct for your vehicle. Sometimes this can be the best route to go when you have a critical part to replace and don't want to mess around. For instance a power window motor can be a real pain to get to and you don't want to go though the trouble unless you know the part will fit and work.
The one thing in common among all three of these categories is the person at the counter. This may be the most important thing when looking for the best auto parts store. Does the person know parts? Can they tell the difference between a muffler and a fuel pump? Having a knowledgeable person at the counter can be very valuable because they'll know what you need even when you don't. For example, if you go to buy a radiator hose will they sell you the clamps? How about antifreeze? Auto parts are as much a science as the automobile itself. Having a decent go-to person at the counter can save you a lot of frustration and time in the end.
One final tip, do some research before you go to the store. In other words know your vehicle. If your looking for belts does your car have air conditioning or power steering? For brakes, do you have discs or drums? These are the kind of questions you will be asked so make sure you do your research so you will get the right parts the first time.
