Buying Auto Parts Online? Discover Common Issues and Tips to Avoid Them

Online shopping has become a part of the usual routine for many Americans. Now you can buy almost everything just by having WiFi. Auto part sellers are no exception. They offer customers access to a vast selection of products at competitive prices in the comfort of their homes. 

However, as auto parts reviews indicate, it has its pitfalls. This article will discuss common issues when buying auto parts online and how to avoid them.

Key Insights

• When asked where they prefer buying auto parts, 60% of Millennials and 41% of Gen Z express a strong preference for purchasing automotive spare parts or accessories online when given the choice. 
• The most common issues when buying auto parts online include delivery of incorrect parts, difficulty returning items or making warranty claims, and poor quality of products.
• You can avoid most of these issues by thoroughly researching sellers and delving deeper into product specifications. Additionally, you also may verify customer reviews and compare similar products.

Common Issues When Buying Auto Parts Online

Let’s take a closer look at common challenges faced by online car parts buyers. 

Incorrect parts delivered

Among the top voiced issues when buying car auto parts online is receiving the wrong part, whether due to seller error or a buyer'smisunderstanding of product specifications. This problem is compounded by the challenge of arranging returns or exchanges, especially if the seller's customer service is unresponsive. Such discrepancies can delay repairs and lead to additional costs and inconvenience for the buyer who purchases auto parts online.

For example, in review #5744654, the customer received incorrect parts in their order, which were “wrong parts different then your website description.” Besides, arranging a return shipping label was challenging due to the lack of phone or email customer service. 

Warranty problems

Many customers reported encountering significant warranty problems after buying automobile spare parts online. Typically, the problems start when a part fails within the stipulated warranty period, and they attempt to make a claim only for the seller to deny it.

Such was the case in Tekonsha review #5902270. The reviewer said that Tekonsha failed with their limited lifetime warranty. 

…After contacting the Tech line, they agreed that it was defective and would send me a replacement. I have waited more than 1 year and made at least 6 calls to their tech lines….

After long waits on the phone each time, customer support finally declined the warranty claim saying that they were back-ordered. 

Difficulty in returning parts

Various reviews indicate that returning automobile parts after buying them online can be a frustrating process. Customers encounter return issues such as unfavorable return policies, restocking fees, unclear return procedures, high return shipping fees, and unreasonable return timelines. 

For example, there are numerous Rock Auto complaints regarding returns. The process does not always go smoothly, and customers are not able to contact Rock auto customer service for assistance as evidenced in review #6055852.  The customer had been trying to return old-style windshield wipers for a week and a half in vain. They couldn’t get through to the RockAuto customer support via phone and were redirected online where they were asked to pay a dollar to speak to someone.

Unsatisfactory quality

Buying auto parts online complaints show that some products are of low quality. Such items break down after a short use or do not function optimally. For example, a reviewer who purchased Moog Suspension car parts online shared their disappointment with the low quality of the items received in review #6028206.

I needed a new front bearing and wheel speed sensor. It lasted two months and the wheel speed sensor died…

Multiple discussions on Reddit also highlight issues with quality. One customer shared that on platforms like Amazon premium-priced parts "ends up being a garbage quality counterfeit". These fake parts not only drive up repair costs but have also been linked to serious safety risks.

...the best case scenario is that you have to do the job twice, or again sooner than expected, and nothing bad happens....Or the worst could happen, and the counterfeit parts end up failing when you need them most… and you could get into a serious accident, potentially injuring yourself and others.

Tips on How to Avoid Problems with Purchasing Auto Parts

Here are practical auto parts shopping tips to avoid common problems with car parts online.

Research and verify sellers 

You want to purchase from sellers who have a strong track record of reliability and customer satisfaction. Pissedconsumers features can help you do your due diligence. 

Reputable online review platforms provide valuable consumer insights when buying car parts online including real customer reviews for various auto parts sellers, consumer tips, and articles with answers to common customer questions. 

For example, browsing PissedConsumer.com allows you to find comprehensive articles about online auto parts providers, including one about PartsGeek credibility, and explore detailed customer reviews. 

Understand product specifications

Before completing an order, double-check the product specification to avoid ordering the wrong parts. Utilize the compatibility features offered by the online auto parts seller to cross-reference the parts. 

Beware of counterfeit parts

Counterfeit parts are a growing issue when buying auto parts online. You not only get a raw deal, but they also pose a safety risk and decrease the performance of your vehicle. To avoid fake auto parts, buy from reputable sellers who offer excellent customer service, favorable return and warranty policies, and honor warranty claims.

Be Proactive When Buying Auto Parts Online

To protect yourself against issues when buying auto parts online, first, familiarize yourself with common auto parts online shopping problems. Next, you should check ratings and read customer reviews for prospective auto parts sellers. It is essential to look out for complaints regarding common issues discussed in this article. Finally, when making your order, verify the product specifications.

What has been your customer experience when buying auto parts online? You may write a review on PissedConsumer.com and help other auto parts shoppers make informed purchase decisions.