In the past, vehicle owners had to go to the market physically to purchase auto spare parts. Sometimes in the past, we would go to an auto shop only to be told that the auto part we were looking for was not available. This resulted in wasting a lot of time moving from one shop to another.
We all know that time is money. Best online auto-part retailers have come to make our shopping easier. These days, you can buy a spare part and have it delivered to your doorstep. This has made shopping convenient and saved us time. On the other hand, con games have increased due to increased online purchases.
Sometimes, people pay for items and get counterfeit, or they don’t get delivered at all. The way to avoid this is to buy from reputable online stores. We have made your search easier by enlisting the 11 best online auto part stores.
Why are people interested in buying auto parts online?
Buying auto parts online has become increasingly popular due to its convenience, browsing and purchasing parts from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need to visit physical stores. In addition, online retailers often have a wider selection of parts available than brick-and-mortar stores, providing customers with more options.
Purchasing auto parts online saves you time and money. Many online retailers offer competitive pricing on their products compared to traditional suppliers because they don’t have to pay overhead prices. The stand-out feature of most online retailers is providing free shipping or discounts on bulk orders, which can result in significant cost savings for customers. Moreover, by purchasing online, customers can compare prices and read reviews from other buyers before deciding what to buy.
Above all, the advantage of being able to shop from anywhere at any time makes it attractive for many car owners looking for replacement or upgrade options.
Top 11 Best Auto Parts Stores
Auto components are the soul of your car. If any auto part of your vehicle breaks down or wears out, it needs to be replaced immediately. Repairing your vehicle on time saves your vehicle from more serious damages that would cost you a fortune. Now, where do we get the spare parts for our vehicles?
People have nowadays embraced eCommerce and use it to their advantage. Instead of moving from one local show to another looking for an auto part, you can simply buy it from an online platform. Most online shops have delivery where you get the products delivered to your place of choice,
Therefore, online retailers save you time and tend to be much cheaper than local shops. You also have the freedom to compare prices of different retailers right from your couch. Now with the increase of online stores, you might be confused about which of them are genuine. Here are the top 11 auto parts retailers you can buy from:
1. Amazon
One of the most reputable platforms to buy auto parts from is Amazon. Amazon is an online store that sells almost everything. Therefore, you will get a variety of the product you are looking for with their product descriptions. From the variety of Amazon auto parts, you are free to choose the one that fits your vehicle best.
In most cases, amazon offers free shipping for auto parts. You can navigate around the site and narrow your search to your specific vehicle. With the information on your vehicle type, model, and year, Amazon will verify the fitment of the part you want on the product page.
When you order auto parts through Amazon, you get one of the best return policies, giving you a little peace of mind when placing the order. The site gives a rating for various products depending on the reviews. The customer reviews will also guide your purchase. The review gives you an idea of the performance of the product based on previous users.
2. eBay
Most people think that eBay is a place for bidding on products, but they offer more than that. eBay has one of the best auto parts stores online, where you can conveniently purchase your auto components. If you already know the product you want, type its name on the search bar of their home page.
If you are not sure of the auto part you want, you can look for it in the product category or search for vehicles being parted out. Previous customers give reviews about the product you want to buy, which will help you make an informed decision.
eBay also offers free shipping for most products, but if not, you will need to pay for shipping separately. The price of their auto parts is also fair compared to some larger suppliers. They track the shipping of the item until it gets to the buyer. They also guarantee the privacy of buyer information on their site.
3. Advance Auto Parts
Advance Auto Parts was founded in 1932. This online auto shop has stood the test of time, making it one of the best places to buy parts for your vehicle. The retailer has almost 5,000 stores in North America, making their distribution for parts quite fast. One thing that makes their site outstanding is that it is quite easy to access.
Advance Auto Parts provides various auto components for all vehicles, irrespective of their models and brand. The retailer offers the customers some exciting coupons and discounts during the purchase. Orders are delivered within one day, and customers can also get their orders in the nearby stores.
This auto parts retailer has a return policy of 45 days for orders in their original packaging and condition. For a product to be returned, it should not have been installed or opened, and all original materials included in the supply should be present. The warehouse provides free shipping for order that is above 50 bucks.
4. AutoZone
AutoZone is a classic online store for auto parts. This online retailer provides you with reliable auto parts to help you fix small and big problems in your vehicle. This store has both aftermarket and genuine OEM parts that meet or exceed the OE performance. What makes AutoZone outstanding is its affordable prices and next-day free shipping for orders above $35.
This online retailer has a reward program. This program helps you to save more if you are a regular customer and shop consistently. It is, therefore, a suitable store for anyone looking for high-quality yet affordable auto parts. Their website also has DIY menus with tutorials and videos on simple repair and maintenance.
AutoZone online store has a loan tool section. This is ideal for people who do not want to buy a tool for on-time installation. You, therefore, rent a tool from the store and return it when you are done. Their site also has educational sections where you learn troubleshooting and indicators the vehicle may exhibit in auto parts damage.
5. RockAuto
In 2023, after two eras of its inception, RockAuto will appear naturally on the list of the top best online auto parts stores in the USA. And we couldn’t be more thrilled to include this in our list of 11 best auto parts stores as a reliable entity to collect your auto parts from.
This family business, founded by automotive engineers in 1999, has always had two goals: to provide customers with access to all available items and product specifications and to make auto parts affordable for everyone.
By remaining an exclusively online company, it has succeeded in keeping auto parts’ prices low and passing on those savings to millions of customers worldwide as they don’t have to spend for physical platforms and people working behind the counters. This is the hidden spell they can offer parts at cut-down prices akin to pass savings to customers.
With thousands of parts from hundreds of manufacturers, it maintains an ever-expanding catalog. Their satisfied customers across the world will be surprised but not shocked if someday RockAuto builds an entire car using only their parts.
At RockAuto, you can confidently shop as they offer the most renowned brands in the industry. Plus, if you encounter any issues with a product within the warranty period, don’t sweat it. Through Order Status & Returns page, submitting a warranty claim is a breeze.
6. O’Reilly Auto Parts
O’Reilly Auto Parts has been providing auto parts since 1957. The retailer has expanded and features more than 5000 stores in different locations in the country. Their site is easy to use, and you can search for auto parts by either category or keyword. O’Reilly Auto Parts offers next-day delivery for orders beyond $35.
O’Reilly Auto Parts is similar to AutoZone. However, they differ in the brands they buy. They have a loyalty system where they reward customers who make multiple purchases. The store offers premium aftermarket parts for vehicles. They also have how-to guides to assist you when making repairs.
If you are not pleased with the part you got, you can return it at any time as long as it is uninstalled or unopened. It should also go along with the original receipt. The prices of auto parts in O’Reilly Auto Parts are affordable, making it an ideal store for anyone on a budget.
7. NAPA Auto Parts
NAPA was founded around 1925. NAPA is not only a local parts distributor in the United States but also has an online presence. Their online auto parts store provides a full service. On top of offering you high-quality parts, you can also get an estimate of the auto repair.
Customers can also book an appointment for repair at any of their repair shops. They ship auto parts to any mainland address of the US at a flat-rate fee of $7.95. The purchase will reach you in two to five days. Auto parts shipped to an FPO or APO pay a flat rate transportation fee of $14.95. The shipment will take a maximum of three weeks.
Apart from spare parts, NAPA Auto Parts also sells automotive accessories, diagnostic equipment, and mechanic tools. If you are unaware of how to repair it, the site also has how-to guides to get all the knowledge you need. On the downside, the store does not have a variety but only sells NAPA parts.
8. CARiD
CARiD is among the most trusted retailers for auto parts. They have technologies and innovations to distribute auto parts in the country. CARiD provides high-quality products from reputable brands at a considerable price. Their shipping fee is fair and depends on the price of the order.
CARiD has in-house experts who advise and help customers to select the best auto part for their vehicles. They have an easy return policy that allows customers to return a part if they are not satisfied with an exchange or refund. This online store also offers parts for RVs, Boats, Motorcycles, and other autos.
CARiD offers awesome customer service. Apart from spare parts, the store also sells premium upgrades such as exterior upgrades, new rims, and stereo equipment. If you are not sure about the issue with your vehicle, CARiD provides you with diagnostic tools that assist in troubleshooting the auto’s problem.
9. 1A Auto
1A Auto is a family-owned store for auto parts. This online store offers free shipping for parts. The order takes between three to five days to arrive. However, you can choose to use the rush shipping options to get the auto parts delivered faster. Auto Parts in transit can be tracked from the website.
1A Auto customer service is available both by phone or online chat. The site has DIY tutorial videos where they show you ways of replacing various vehicle parts. You can search the auto parts in 1A Auto by model or make of the vehicle or using keywords. If you place your order before 4 EST, it will be shipped on the same day.
10. CarParts.com
Have you tried to look for a specific auto part without success? If yes, then visit CarParts.com. This aftermarket car parts website is unique from all the other online auto shops since they do not offer new parts. The retailer works with recycling yards and auto wrecking to get you the auto components you require.
CarParts.com provides you with cheaper and discounted parts that you cannot get anywhere else. One thing you need to keep in mind is that their products are not new. Therefore, you may not have a guarantee of how long the part will serve you. Online customer support is 24/7 through their toll-free number or live chat.
When ordering from the site, you can either search for the particular part by category or seek help from their online salesperson. They have a variety of auto parts, and thus you will be able to compare their prices. CarParts.com’s return policy is within 30 days after purchase, and you need to meet some instructions.
11. Parts Geek
Parts Geek is a discount auto parts retailer offering tons of aftermarket and OEM parts for different vehicle models and makes. This auto parts warehouse specializes in parts that are hard to find and brings them to you at great prices. On top of their affordable prices, they offer you free shipping for all orders.
This shop has worked as a discount company for auto parts since 2008. Most of the parts are shipped in three to seven business days. You are also able to track the shipment from the website and know where exactly the order is. Once you confirm an order, you cannot cancel it since they are packed within an hour.
However, they have some questionable customer service policies. For instance, if they send you the wrong part or something is missing, you should ship them back at your own cost. The shop does not send the right parts unless you ship back the previous order. Therefore, ensure you countercheck the part number before you place an order.
Read Also: RockAuto Vs. Partsgeek: An In-depth Comparison
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Are The Most Popular Vehicle Auto Parts Sold Online?
The internet has made the world a village marketplace. This way, you can get anything you want from wherever you are. Everything is available online. However, some parts are more popular than others. Some of the most popular auto parts bought online are side-view mirrors, tires, tail lamps, speedometer heads, motors, alternators, and AC compressors.
This, however, does not mean that other auto parts are not bought online. People also buy engines from online platforms, but it may not be so often. Some parts take longer to get issues, and thus, their purchase is not so common. For others, vehicle owners prefer to buy them at the local shops to avoid getting the wrong fitment.
Does Amazon Sell Used Parts?
Amazon does not allow companies to sell used parts on their site. The auto parts on Amazon are either refurbished or new, and they must have a warrant from the remanufacturer or manufacturer. Some of the online sites where you can get used auto parts are eBay or CarParts.com.
CarParts.com is one of the unique sites that only sell used auto parts. The parts in this online shop are pocket-friendly. However, at Amazon, you will not be allowed to sell used auto parts, neither will you buy a used auto part. Most mechanics recommend you to buy new auto parts, for they tend to serve for a longer time.
Why Are Auto Parts Cheaper Online?
Auto parts online are much cheaper compared to local retail shops since they can cut down several costs. In most cases, online shops do not carry inventory. They get their supplies from distributors who drop ship for them.
This means that when a customer makes an order, it goes directly to the distributor. The distributor, therefore, is the one to ship the product. Therefore, the online shop may not have any real cost since they do not pay for physical space, shipping, or pay salespeople.
On top of this, they eliminate intermediaries who make the price go up. By eliminating all these costs, they can sell auto parts at a cheaper price. Even if they make less profit per product, at the end of it, all the profit will be huge since they work in bulk.
Are AutoZone Parts OEM?
AutoZone is one of the most reputable online stores for auto parts. This online shop offers both OEM and aftermarket parts. The OEM parts from AutoZone meet and exceed the performance of OE. The high percentages who buy from AutoZone are DIYers, and a few percentages are from professional mechanics.
Who Is the Largest Auto Parts Retailer?
AutoZone is the largest retailer of vehicle auto parts in the United States. This company was founded in 1979. Though AutoZone is a local provider of auto components, it also has an online presence. The site has made it easier for customers to find auto parts for their vehicles at affordable prices.
AutoZone’s website also has tutorials and videos on troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining different vehicle parts. The auto parts you buy are shipped directly to a store near you. Goods above $35 are shipped for free. This company offers its customers excellent customer service and a standard manufacturing warranty.
What Is the Difference Between OEM and Genuine Parts?
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These parts are made by the company that made the vehicle or built the car’s genuine parts. OEM parts feature s stamp of the vehicle manufacturer for approval. Most vehicle owners prefer OEM parts since they are more affordable compared to genuine parts.
On the other hand, Genuine parts are parts installed in your vehicle when you originally bought it. These are the most expensive auto parts on the market. Due to the high prices, people think they are superior to other parts, but it is not always the case.
Are Aftermarket Parts Better than OEM?
Aftermarket parts are manufactured by other online auto parts companies rather than the ones that made the original parts. The companies buy rights to produce the components from other vehicle brands. Aftermarket parts may look a little different from the original parts, but they still serve the purpose.
Whether they are better than OEM parts will depend on the specific part and the manufacturer. Some aftermarket parts tend to be more durable than OEM parts. Aftermarket parts are cheaper than OEM. However, using so many aftermarket auto parts on your vehicle may lower the overall value of the vehicle.
Final Words:
Owning a vehicle comes with numerous responsibilities. The auto parts will wear out from time to time, requiring replacements and repair. Buying your auto parts for repair is less expensive than what a dealer would charge. Our busy schedules often make us go in the expensive direction but not anymore.
The internet has made shopping for auto parts quite easy. There are several online shops offering vehicle spare parts, and you can buy them at your convenience. The challenge comes in choosing the best online auto-part retailer. Above, we have discussed some of the most reputable online retailers for different types of auto parts.
To buy the right auto part online, you need to have some information. Find out the age of your vehicle, VIN, and part code. Check the cost of the parts from different sites and settle for the one with the best price. It is also crucial to check the policies of the online retailer before you place an order.
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