FAQ – Car Parts

OEM Automotive Parts Questions - Fernandez Honda

Where Can I Buy Certified Honda Auto Parts in San Antonio TX?

There are some times in which you may need or want to buy new auto parts for your car, truck, or SUV. To help you decide, we have asked our automotive parts and service team some frequently asked questions. This is what they said.

Should I Buy OEM Parts?

OEM auto parts is how we talk about the “Original Equipment Manufacturer” parts. They are manufactured for unique car, truck, and SUV models by the manufacturer. These are the exactly-matching parts that your vehicle has. They include a limited warranty. Dealers use your VIN Number to source the right OEM part for your car, truck, or SUV.

  • Quality:

    • These manufacturer branded parts guarantee quality and performance.

  • Warranty:

    • These automobiles parts come with a manufacturer warranty.

  • Price:

    • These top of the line parts can cost more than comparative aftermarket items.

  • Availability:

    • Dealers generally order specific OEM parts from the manufacturer. This may take a few days if it is not already in stock.

Should I Get Aftermarket Auto Parts?

An aftermarket part is any part for a car, truck, SUV, or minivan that does not come directly from the vehicle’s maker, or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). These parts are certainly less-expensive choices for your vehicle’s repair and technical upgrade. Online retailers and independent, local shops may (though not necessarily) offer a selection of aftermarket automotive parts. These car parts are designed to function similarly as the OEM versions. However, aftermarket automobile parts have their own pros and cons.

  • Quality:

    • Low prices can suggest a lack of quality craftsmanship

  • Warranty:

    • These parts are not warrantied

  • Price:

    • These car parts are cheaper than the OEM parts

  • Availability:

    • These parts are readily available at most independent auto-repair shops

Which Parts Are Most Costly to Replace?

While basic automobile part costs range between $150 to $500, some part repairs can break your budget.

The auto parts most costly to replace are:

  • Hybrid battery – $6,000 and up
  • Cylinders – Up to $10,000
  • Transmissions – $4,000 to $5,000
  • Suspensions – Up to $3,000
  • Brake Line – $1,000

When Should You Require OEM Parts?

Always purchase OEM Manufacturer parts when it comes to collision repairs. non-manufacturer car parts may not fit right when your car or truck has damaged body panels after a accident. Plus, installing aftermarket parts may void your lease vehicle warranty. So, always use OEM parts for all lease vehicle repairs.

What Vehicle Parts Are Covered or Not Covered Under Warranty?

A comprehensive auto manufacturer’s warranty necessarily doesn’t cover all auto parts. However, car buyers, can always choose something like an extended warranty, bumper-to-bumper, or factory warranty for the most comprehensive coverage. Even with an extended warranty, all your vehicle’s parts will likely not be covered. Check out our coverage overview list below to learn more.

Powertrain Warranty Coverage:

  • Engine
  • Transmission
  • Axles
  • Gaskets
  • Transfer Case

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty Coverage:

  • All major vehicle systems
  • AC and heating
  • Safety features
  • High-tech systems

Covered With Extended Warranty:

  • Extends coverage of all items under original Factory Warranty

Not Covered With Warranty

  • Scheduled maintenance
  • Wear and tear items
  • Body panel or exterior damage
  • Interior damage
  • Accidental damage
  • Environmental damage

Should I Get Auto Parts from Craigslist?

Craigslist is not an auto retailer; but on this online platform, third-party vendors sell automotive parts. For this reason, the quality cannot be guaranteed. If you are buying car parts from this source, make sure to research, verify, and compare before the purchase.

Should I Buy Automotive Parts from Amazon?

Unquestionably, Amazon is a reputed online marketplace and provides shoppers with a convenient and easy site to find quality automotive parts. While most auto parts sold by Amazon are from trusted sources, it can be hard to know if you’re getting the correct part for your car since you are not dealing with an automobile expert directly.

Can You Get Auto Parts at The Car Dealership?

Yes, you can always shop for car parts at the dealership. Most auto dealerships only source standard manufacturer OEM parts. Most of all, they can help you find specific parts for your vehicle with its vehicle identification .

Can You Bring Your Own Auto Parts to The Auto Dealership?

You can always bring your own parts to a car dealership. The auto dealership, however, will not be able to issue warranty on the purchased part, nor can they guarantee its performance. It is highly recommended to get your vehicle checked by an certified service center at a local dealership before buying any auto parts for installation. The certified mechanic will also be able to diagnose the problem and suggest an appropriate replacement part, if necessary.

Where Can I Purchase Aftermarket Auto Parts Installed?

Bring your aftermarket car or truck part to a local dealer to have it installed. Before installation, a service technician will check the aftermarket vehicle part to verify if it is suitable for your car or truck. Even if they install the aftermarket auto part, however, the dealership can only provide a warranty on the labor.

FAQ – Car Parts | Fernandez Honda