The first quarter of 2020 has just closed, and it's been a heck of a rollercoaster. The world has never confronted anything as threatening as the q pandemic. Governments, regardless of how advanced or behind they are, have seen unimaginable challenges in only three short months. Everything else pales in comparison to the COVID-19.
In the face of this pandemic, the entire world has shut down indefinitely. Industries have either ground to a complete stop or have slowed down massively. The automotive industry has also been affected profoundly by the current situation.
Why the Auto Industry Can’t Be Totally Locked Down
No matter what goes on in the world, essentials need to be transported. This includes food, supplies, medicines, front-liners, peace and order keepers, health workers, and similar essential sectors. Thus, without even need for special mention, cars and motor vehicles will need to be repaired, maintained, and fueled for use.
On a full lockdown, this can be challenging if not impossible to do. While still allowed as essential sectors, going about the automotive business requires strict application of the social distancing premise. Given how severe the spread of COVID-19 is, being out and about shopping for car parts can still be quite risky.
Luckily, we don't only live in an era when we own and operate high-tech vehicles, but we also live in the age of technology. With the concept of the Internet of Things, there are ways to find and buy spare parts and car accessories through various car part finder tools.
Whatever degree of lockdown, sheltering, or stay-at-home order your location is under, it is most definitely safer to get car parts online instead of going out the old fashioned way. Let's talk about why it's a better idea for you to look for cars and car parts online.
Why It's Important to Reduce Exposure
Right now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the world is going through a critical period. Social distancing is one of the most important ways to stop the virus from spreading further. Aside from avoiding gatherings (which now is down to gatherings of two people maximum), this also means that we should not leave our homes unless we're going out to buy essential supplies. The reason for this is simple: if we avoid contact with other people, we reduce the chances of us getting or passing on the disease.
Still, as mentioned earlier, people need to buy and sell cars and the spare parts that keep them running. Does the pandemic mean that we can't continue doing this? Of course not! Not only are vehicles and spare parts still a necessity, but we would also be helping the automotive industry stay alive by continuing to buy and sell cars and car parts.
So, to continue doing this in a way that reduces our exposure to risk, we can buy cars and car parts online!
Is Australia on Lockdown?
First, let's talk about what's going on in Australia. At the time of writing this article, it seems that Australia is not on total lockdown yet but has closed non-essential businesses since March 23rd.
The automotive sector continues to operate, and businesses are taking the necessary precautions to keep staff and customers safe. The best thing is that they are still able to provide customers like you with the help and parts you need.
Bear in mind that this is still a developing and very fluid situation. Rules, restrictions, and exceptions can change almost overnight all across the world.
One thing is for sure: whether or not there are restrictions in place, you should still do your best to avoid going out unnecessarily. Thankfully, in this day and age, you can get your hands on spare parts and much more online!
Let's take a quick look at what kind of stuff you can get online and have shipped right to your doorstep, as well as why that's a safer option than heading out yourself.
Online Car Auctions and Sales
Even though you're stuck at home on your couch and in your pyjamas, you can still shop around for whole cars online! There are plenty of websites in Australia that enable you to browse, research, and purchase cars.
That also applies to car auctions, which are still allowed to continue in Australia, so long as they take place online. Car auctions are a great way to find and buy used cars, perhaps slightly damaged vehicles, and even government cars as well.
Remember, this works both ways. If you were planning on selling a vehicle, you could still do so. After all, it might make it easier to find a buyer if you did it all online through reputable websites.
Thankfully, banking is also an essential service, so they'll always be open to help you when it comes to car financing. To be sure, call your preferred bank and find out if there are any disruptions or changes to their services.
Buying and Selling Auto Parts Online
Experiencing a faulty car part? No worries. Auto parts online platforms are very much vibrant and thriving even in these difficult times. Firstly, there are currently no restrictions on e-commerce or selling things online. That is half of the good news for you if you're in the market for car parts of any kind, ranging from a windshield wiper to an entire gearbox.
Here's the other half of the good news: 'essential services' also includes postal and courier companies. So not only can you place a purchase online right now for auto parts that your car requires, but you can also rest assured that it will get shipped to you within a reasonable period.
You should expect some delays in shipping, though. Most people are buying stuff online now, so the couriers are much busier than usual.
One of these platforms is Carpart.com.au, which is your gateway to thousands of auto sellers, buyers, and service providers. To shop around for parts, you may use the Find a Part function or search through the Classifieds. If you’re searching for service providers and mechanics, go to our Directory, which is a no-brainer to use. Oh, and if you need some cash out of some car parts you don’t need, you may advertise and sell auto parts through this link.
Mobile Mechanics
Need your car fixed but don't want to leave the house? Not a problem. These days, mechanics can come right to you. Using their mobile workshops (which is usually a large utility van or truck with all their equipment inside), mechanics can now service or fix your car wherever you have it parked. That's great news because your vehicle can be kept in its best shape while you minimize your exposure to risk.
Yes, there may be an extra fee involved, but given the circumstances, I think it's more than worth paying the extra to have it done right at your home. After all, you don't have to leave your house or worry about being exposed to the coronavirus.
Mobile Car Detailing and Car Wash
Here's a bonus tip for you: mechanics aren't the only people who are mobile these days. If for any reason you can't give your car a proper cleanup, a quick Carpart directory search will help you find mobile car cleaners in your area. Simply type ‘mobile,’ ‘mobile mechanic,’ or ‘mobile auto’ on the directory search bar, and the tool will show you all mobile auto detailers, mobile auto care, mobile auto electricians, and mobile auto mechanics in Australia.
Just remember to observe all necessary precautions and social distancing when talking to the mobile service providers. And, of course, their ability to come to you will be subject to local rules regarding lockdowns and essential businesses. If the local rules in your region allows them to continue operating, they're very much worth the fees you pay them.
Just think about it: When all of this COVID-19 'lockdown' stuff is over, and people start driving their dusty vehicles again, your car will already be the shiniest one in the neighbourhood!
By Ray Hasbollah