Buying Engine Parts Online: Yay or Nay?

Have you ever found yourself driving all around the town just to find an engine part only to discover that one online shop has it at a lower price? Yes, it can be frustrating especially if you have to look around and invest a few hours just to obtain a specific part.

The good thing is, online shopping can make this task such a breeze. This is a great option for motorists that have to juggle between work life and family time.

However, there are lingering horrible stories about cheap yet substandard parts, broken or damaged upon shipping, scams and many more.

Since many people are now embracing online shopping, the question now is, it reasonable to buy car engine parts online or a nightmare that one needs to avoid? Read on this article from Philkotse.com and find out.

I. 4 Things To Consider

Online shopping has undeniably appealed to the masses for its convenience and it has become a common choice for busy and tired motorists who can't seem to squeeze in some time to purchase parts from hardware or an auto shop.

1. Check for manufacturer's website

A lot of businesses opt to bridge their products and services online and through social media. If you want to be safe, checking if the engine parts manufacturer for its website is a great option. If the manufacturer does have a website and can deliver to your place, it is best to buy directly from them.

If you want to be safe, checking if the engine parts manufacturer for its website is a great option

2. Choosing between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or aftermarket parts

What is the difference between the OEM engine and auto parts from aftermarket ones? OEM parts are manufactured by the car’s producer to generate parts intended for a specific car model or make. On the other hand, aftermarket parts are produced by a third-party manufacturer that aims to fit or suit general car models and specifications.

In a nutshell, you’ll know that OEM parts will cost more than aftermarket ones. If you opt to shop online, you need to identify which of the two you’ll need. You’ll find that aftermarket auto and engine parts are widely distributed online while OEM ones aren’t.

>>> Read more: OEM vs Aftermarket car parts: All you should know about its Pros & Cons

OEM parts are manufactured by the car’s producer to generate parts intended for a specific car model or make

3. Cash concerns and personal security

One red flag for shopping online is the shady cash demands that a seller may request from you. Notice how legitimate sites would prefer PayPal and Payoneer. Bank transfers where you’re required to send your card numbers and other personal info is a big no-no.

One red flag for shopping online is the shady cash demands that a seller may request from you

4. Distance woes and tracking numbers

It is a scary thing to pay for something that isn’t within your reach yet. You have the right to choose between an online shop that offers 2-3 delivery days and another that has an express 24-hour delivery option. The farther the shop or the longer the delivery days are, the more you need to cross it out from your online shopping options.

Don’t forget to ask for tracking numbers when a package has been shipped. This is your assurance that an engine or auto part is on its way.

Don’t forget to ask for tracking numbers when a package has been shipped

5. No return, no exchange policy

There are instances wherein an auto part is damaged due to handling and shipping process. Always ask the seller about their no return policy. You should always choose the shop that offers security and assurance to make the purchase worth the wait and money.

>>> Read more: Top 3 Tips on Getting the Best Deals on Car Accessories in Banawe Street

II. 3 Advantages of Online Shopping

Now that you have read what factors are there to consider before placing your order online for a new radiator, here are the advantages and disadvantages of online shopping for auto parts.

1. Cheaper and cost-effective

The good thing about online shopping is a pool of auto parts supplier and seller competes against each other for sales. When the supplies are high, the prices will drop. This scenario is good for aftermarket parts. But for OEM ones, standard pricing is followed.

2. Wide variety of options

It is up to the buyer to research and scrutinize the products being offered online. One tool that makes choosing a credible online seller more accessible is through product and service reviews. Take the time to read each review especially those who rated the seller or product with negative remarks. The negative comments will indicate what the supplier or seller is lacking in terms of service delivery and the product itself.

It is up to the buyer to research and scrutinize the products being offered online

3. Information gathering

An online shopping platform is never complete with a function of creating a direct line of communication between the client/customer and supplier/seller. Through online shopping, you can inquire about the product from the supplier itself. You can also ask about their store standards and return policy.

III. 3 Disadvantages of Online Shopping

1. Used car parts for sale

One kind of scam that is rampant online is selling of used car parts but advertising them as new. This is common in websites and pages like Facebook marketplace and Craigslist. It is put on sale as new only to find out that it is already used and worse, damaged. With this trade, you are never going to get your money back.

It is good to purchase used car parts if that is what you need. However, if you need a new one as a replacement for a badly damaged engine or auto part, you’re at the end of a losing trade.

2. Unsecured payment terms

Be wary of hacking and phishing when it comes to your online purchases. Bank transfers that require personal details are considered as a red-flag already. Money transfers through carriers like Palawan Pawnshop, LBC express padala, MLhuillier are scary. You have no way of getting your money back in cases of scams.

Be wary of hacking and phishing when it comes to your online purchases

3. Payment first policy

Some sellers insist on having the buyer pay for the item first. Then, out of nowhere, you’re unable to contact the seller regarding your order. If possible, ask the seller for a Cash On Delivery option.

Online shopping is done for a convenient and efficient trade. To make the transaction successful, research and awareness are needed especially for auto and engine parts that have required specifications for optimal use.

Make sure to visit Philkotse.com every day for more helpful tips and advice!