A major car repair, inclusive of labour and the replacement car parts, can set you back a couple of thousands. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on auto parts in Melbourne. Here are some of the best sources of car parts depending on whether you’re searching for new or used parts, and OEM or aftermarket.
New Genuine or OEM Car Parts
These are auto parts that come straight either from the carmaker or the original equipment manufacturer. They are generally more expensive.
To purchase a brand-new auto part, you must know the specs of the part that your car needs. If you are knowledgeable, then you can order by yourself. If not, it's best to consult with your trusted mechanic.
Don’t forget to ask whether the manufacturer (if you are buying directly from them) has a loyalty program for car owners. It reduces the cost of the auto part if you have enough points or benefits to redeem against the price of that auto part.
You can also buy from a trusted dealer. Owners of Audi cars, for instance, can purchase parts from the Audi Centre Melbourne located at 577 King Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003. Another new car parts dealer is All Vehicle Accessories, which is located at 49 Fennell Street, Port Melbourne VIC 3207.
If you drive a USA make and model, then you can opt for companies specialising in US car replacement and performance parts. One such company is the Eagle Auto Parts, which you will find in 92 South Gippsland Hwy, Dandenong 3175.
New Aftermarket Auto Parts
Aftermarket car parts are manufactured by a company that is not the car’s original manufacturer. They are also known as generic parts. If you opt for aftermarket components, these tips will be useful:
1. Which specific part do you need?
Know the type and model number of the auto part. Not knowing this important piece of info may prove to be an expensive mistake.
2. Find relevant information about the dealer
You need to buy from a reliable dealer. Read reviews and feedback. A reputable dealer should have more positive reviews and repeat clients. A good rating mirrors the reliability and trustworthiness of a business.
3. Get expert assistance
Get an expert opinion from a mechanic or auto specialist to ensure that your car and the auto part are compatible.
4. Inspect the dealership’s policies
Read all the terms and conditions carefully before completing the purchase. You may run into issues later on when you want to return or replace the product.
5. Ask for warranties
You need to be sure that the dealer has the best warranty possible for the auto part.
6. Search for dealers with the best customer incentives
Some sellers provide you with promo codes or coupons or even have discounts which you can use to buy the auto part at a discount. You may also have to compare their websites so that you can get the best deal.
Two Melbourne aftermarket dealers that are worth mentioning are:
No Limit – It deals exclusively with car sound accessories and is located at 580 City Road, South Melbourne VIC 3205.
Oze Parts – It calls itself Australia’s number one online pitstop, offering a wide range of products from taillights to radiators. It operates 24/7 from its official address at 28 Bessemer Drive, Dandenong Victoria 3175 Australia.
Used Auto Parts
There are times when buying brand new and aftermarket auto parts can be costly. The next cheaper solution would be used auto parts. Buying used parts has its share of risks if you don’t know what to do or where to go. Here is what you should do:
1. Do your research
Search sellers, compare prices, and read reviews. By reading customers’ feedback, you get answers to these vital questions - Do they offer quality parts? How long does it take to get a part after ordering? You may also visit any garage and inquire on the cost of the auto part. Using this as your benchmark, compare the prices of the dealers you have shortlisted.
2. Go to the car wreckers
When purchasing an auto part from a wrecking yard, you can go to either a full service or you-pick yards. Full services yards will pick out all the auto parts that you may need. On the other hand, you need to do all the ‘dirty work’ of picking out the auto parts if you opt for you-pick yards.
Avoid dealing with a third-party auto parts broker as they complicate the process and in many cases exaggerate the cost of the auto parts. Other issues you may run into are mistakes in your auto part order which will make returning the parts or executing the warranty a nightmare.
If you happen to be looking for a rare vehicle’s auto part, your first stop should be the car wreckers. Here are some Melbourne wreckers and their location:
Harvey Wreckers – 400 Warrandyte Rd, Langwarrin VIC 3190, Australia
Dynon Auto Wreckers – 11 Lloyd St, West Melbourne VIC 3003, Australia
Rusty Ford Wreckers – 22 Killara Rd, Campbellfield VIC 3061, Australia
Holden Wreckers and Repairs – 1/8 Westall Rd, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia
Auto Part Recyclers – 59-65 Webber Parade, Keilor East VIC 3033, Australia
German Auto Wreckers – 1 Norwich Ave, Thomastown VIC 3074, Australia
3. Ask an expert to accompany you
Have the most trusted mechanic or car enthusiast accompany you. Someone who will know what to look for in a part and can shed more light on the history of the auto part.
4. Find the best price
Car wreckers offer the lowest selling price for auto parts. Toyrolla (located at 88 Wedge Street Epping) is a used car dealer that offers the best price, often at 50% cheaper than new parts.
5. Ask if they offer installation of the auto parts
In most cases, the cost of installing parts is cheaper if performed by the seller (in this case, the car wrecker). Such an installation package is also more convenient and oftentimes inclusive of longer warranties.
6. Inquire about guarantees
Ask whether the wrecking car company offers a guarantee. Most have a 30-day return policy that provides customers with peace of mind in case the auto part becomes faulty after installation.
Conclusion
Purchasing auto parts doesn't have to be an expensive affair; you only need to know where to look. There’s no shortage of reasonably-priced car parts in Melbourne. One smart and time-saving way to search for car parts wherever you are is to use an auto parts locator.
At Carpart.com.au, we have a multi-function platform that works best for people looking to buy or sell car parts. It features a parts finder, directory, and classifieds section, which are all easy to use. Visit us now!
By Eric Anyega