There will always be other people who own the exact same car that you have, possibly with working parts that they don’t need or would like to sell. So those hard to find parts you want might be available for sale somewhere; you only need to find them.
Locating auto parts or discontinued parts requires patience and persistence. If there is no alternative to the OEM, you will have to either attempt to fabricate it or locate a donor car.
As more and more auto parts are becoming obsolete and no longer available (NLA), a part-finding tool becomes increasingly important. We will discuss it at length below as one of the more innovative and effective ways of searching a car part.
6 Smart Ways of Locating Hard to Find Auto Parts
1. Look for classic car clubs.
These car clubs have people with similar car makes like yours. It makes sense that if you own a ‘68 Ford Fairlane, you will look for a Ford enthusiasts club. These are people who have restored classics and might be able to help you get the necessary parts because they’d know where to look. You may be looking from local dealers, only to be advised that it's better to import from Europe. NOTE: People are the real source of knowledge. Once you fully grasp this, you get why people form clubs.
2. Search for old dealerships.
Check out old dealerships and the people who run them. Their connections and knowledge gained over the years will be invaluable to you. They are your best bet when looking for classic auto parts or NOS (new old stock).
3. Try wrecking yards.
The wrecking yard is automotive heaven. You get an assortment of cars, and parts are fairly cheap. Many wrecking yards specialise in a particular make or type, which is a plus if the vehicle you're repairing is what they deal with.
4. Opt for improvised car parts.
People have become more creative. There are fabricated copies of original parts available in the market today. However, you have to be cautious in buying them as some may void your insurance policy. Generally, they function well and sometimes are even better than the original, especially on older cars.
An engineer can easily create a custom part for you, especially now that we have 3D technology. If you go this route, though, expect to dig deep into your pocket.
5. Fix the old parts.
If you cannot afford a 3D-engineered part, you can fix your old components. For example, with more wiring, bearings, and brushes, you can make your old alternator work. You can always find books that guide you on the hard-to-do repairs.
6. Use a car part finder.
Okay, so this method is still an online resource. However, it’s not your typical online store or auto shop. Here’s what it is. The car part finding tool that Carpart.com.au provides is a hub where auto part buyers like you and over 500 vetted suppliers and wreckers can connect directly.
In other words, you may now link with those people we’ve mentioned above, who have the exact same car that you own and for which you need those parts.
How to Use the Parts Finder Tool
This nifty tool is easy to use. Here’s how:
1. Have all the part information and details ready. This includes your car’s VIN, the part's name and code (if available), and part image files (optional but highly recommended).
2. You will be asked to fill out some info on the online form. Provide complete details; upload images of the part.
3. Click ‘send request.’ The system then automatically sends the form to 500-plus sellers and wreckers within our network.
4. Evaluate the responses. You will start getting quotes from which you choose the best offer.
5. Choose the best deal. You may then discuss the details of the transaction with your chosen supplier.
We understand that sometimes locating an auto part online can be very stressful. The good thing is that there are several ways, and Carpart.com.au has provided an intelligent solution.
In case you run into an issue, you can always contact us. Thank you, and happy car parts shopping!