All about auto parts.

The Best Ways To Maintain Body Panels And Other Auto Parts

2008-10-25T20:17:00.001-07:00

When you are looking at your car, you may not think that you will have to have auto parts or even panels for your new car, but you will have to think about it so that your car can look great going down the road.

When you decide to do something with your body panels, you will need to know what you are doing and what can happen if you are not careful with your body panel planning. You will want to have a few things for your body panels before you even start and these really begin with a design so that you know what you want to go with. This can be a big thing for your auto parts and what you need. You just have to take a look at what you want.

When you start on your body panel work, you should have all of your auto parts in front of you so that you will be ready when you are done with the customizing that you will need to do to your car. This makes it so much easier when you are putting it back together and you won't need any auto parts either.

If you are doing it yourself, you will need to know what you are going to do for your paint as well so that once you have is created, you can paint it to match your car and your cars other auto parts. This may seem like a no brainer, but many people will put the body panel on and not bother to paint it. Sometimes this is because they think that they will paint the whole car in the future. If you are not sure if you are going to paint the car in the future, I would go ahead and paint the panel so that it looks somewhat right on the car.

When you take the time to find out what you need to do with your auto parts needs, you will be more likely to have a good running and good looking car in the end. Body panels are not hard to do if you are ok with working with the auto parts that you will need as well as getting dirty under car. You may not understand that this body panel is going to make your car run better and faster in the end.

How To Find Auto Parts Treasures Through Auto Parts Recyclers

2008-10-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

So, your hands are the hands of a mechanic, and your mind works like clockwork. That is wonderful for you. So with all of the mechanical knowledge you have, you probably have a good idea about how to repair your own car. When you repair your car, there are times when you will need to replace some vital parts. This can cost you an arm and a leg, which, in the end, will cost more for your client. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost to your customers, namely frequenting "auto parts recyclers".

Auto parts recyclers offer outstanding deals on gently and not so gently used automobile parts. There are quite a few auto parts recyclers out there, many can be found online. Because they offer recycled parts, their prices are very reasonable. Auto parts recyclers get most of their cars from insurance companies looking to save a few bucks by dumping the cars at these lots.

Were you aware that when you buy used/recycled car parts, you are helping to save the environment? New car parts can emit more pollution than their used counterparts. When a manufacturer produces a new car part, they use more oil than they did in the past. When you reuse raw materials you are doing your part to reduce pollutants in the air. Discovering the right parts for your car should be easy, with so many auto parts recyclers in the US, there are more than enough car parts to pick from.

When people dump their used cars off at an auto parts recycler, they are freeing up precious space in the almost overflowing landfills. It doesn't make sense to throw something away, when it can still be used. If you pick the part from a used car, you are going to be getting an actual manufacturer's part; no knock-offs here. You can rest assured that the parts recyclers will know which parts are usable, and which parts are actually junk.

Truthfully, used car parts will save you money. Obviously it is cheaper than buying brand new car parts, but do you think you'll be getting the same quality? That is something you should be concerned about. Fortunately, most auto parts recyclers will offer a warranty with their parts. They also have a full database which makes it much easier, and quicker to locate parts than at a dealership. Even if they don't have the part you need, they can get it to you pretty quickly.

You don't have to pull your hair out, every time you need to find used parts that are reasonably priced. Next time you're on the look-out for car parts, take a trip to your local auto parts recycler, or go online to find one and chances are they'll have what you need.

Maintaining Superior Vehicle Performance

2008-10-20T20:13:00.000-07:00

Knowing more about the auto industry helps a lot in the desired customization of your vehicle. With so many parts and accessories around, it is rather difficult to determine which part suits perfectly to the specifications of your ride. Investment also poses utter importance as to getting the best part that offers the biggest bang for your buck. Thus, parts are categorized in many labels in order to offer a wide variety of selection and freedom of choice for an auto part buyer. From aftermarket parts to OEM parts, these components cater well to the specific needs of your Volkswagen which demand nothing but quality parts to enhance its already remarkable overall performance.

A Volkswagen OEM part refers to the part made by the same manufacturer as the genuine part you get from the local auto dealer. In reality, car makers do not make the parts they use in building their vehicles. Most of the time, they would utilize independent companies in helping the design the vehicles, just like the case of Volkswagen. You may wonder about the availability of these parts, though. But after a certain period of time, they already have the go-signal to sell these Volkswagen OEM parts to the wholesale distributors for resale. In this instance, the parts are packed in the box bearing the actual name of the manufacturer of that part. Quality-wise, it does not pose any difference at all. It is even cheaper (by almost 70 percent) than the dealer originally sold for and continues to sell.

On the other hand, an aftermarket part refers to the product purchased and installed into the vehicle made from a company other than the original manufacturer of the car. Majority of the performance parts are made by aftermarket companies since they have specialization in a particular field. From catalytic converters to tail lights, aftermarket parts abound and excel in what they thrive in. Aftermarket companies purchase the rights to reproduce these parts and supply them to the same wholesale distributors as the OEM parts. These parts are generally produced with the same machinery and materials but because they were not designed in the same manner the part may have minor differences in appearance and feel. There's no big difference between a Volkswagen OEM part like an air intake with a Volkswagen AEM air intake.

Some aftermarket companies, upon getting the right to produce a part, may indeed find a way to improve a part by redesigning it. This results in a better part, and quite possibly, a less expensive one. There are a variety of high quality aftermarket parts that can be purchased and live up to all the expectations of the original at a much lower price.

But what kind of part may be, OEM and aftermarket parts are manufactured to perform the way it is designed for. A Volkswagen OEM part like a catalytic converter performs the same caliber as an aftermarket one. It is up to the owner which kind of part he chooses to fit well to his Volkswagen.

Advice on Getting Auto Loans

2008-10-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

For years, people have come up with various ways of safeguarding their financial future and methods that improve their personal profitability. Companies and banks that let people borrow money often attempt to entrap them with financial regulations and fees which helps these companies to acquire large amounts of profit without a lot of effort. People can protect themselves against such regulations and hidden fees if they become educated on the workings of the complex financial world that we live in today.

Borrowing money has become very popular and traditional in the United States because of all the different things that are very costly. Most of the time when people want to purchase high price things such as houses, cars, electronics, etc., they have to borrow money from banks or other companies that lend out money to customers. This process can be quite complicated but is necessary when buying such high priced things.

Many people sometimes obtain loans so that they can purchase vehicles that they want to buy, and they do this quite often because of how often they purchase cars throughout their lifetime. Auto loans are very common and can be obtained in a number of different ways. There are a few suggestions that people can follow, however, in order to be the most effective and successful when taking out a car loan.

You should definitely estimate the amount of income you are making and also the amount of fees and expenditures that you are going to make every month. Organizing and creating a financial budget for yourself is the first thing that everyone must do and will greatly enhance the effectiveness of finding a car loan that is right for you. Being financially responsible requires disciple and patience, and also realizing the limitations that surround you.

People should also first solidify a personal budget for all his or her finances, and then determine how much they can spend toward the purchase of a new car. You must never exceed this amount when applying for a loan because your financial budget will quickly deteriorate and cause you many more financial burdens in the future. Auto loans can be simply based upon the amount of money that is available after you make a full personal budget.

The second part of selecting and buying a vehicle is very important financially, especially when you want to get the specific automobile that you would want to get. You must do quite a bit of research and homework on determining what type of car would work best for you. It should fit the limitations of the budget that you have already set in place but also fulfill the desires that you might have.

Visiting various auto dealerships and speaking with auto salesmen will help in the selection process. Make a list of cars that are reasonably priced and then take the time to test drive them all. This will greatly enhance the effectiveness of your car selection and auto loan process.

Obtaining a car loan can be as simple or as difficult as you make it. Talk with the different dealerships about what kinds of loans are available and always read the fine print of the separate contracts.

Reduce Your Risk of Auto Theft?

2008-10-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

With the rising price of gas, skyrocketing health care costs, etc... Americans are feeling the economic crunch. Lets put some money back in your pocket right now and lets take a bite out of auto theft.

The best part is

(1) You don't have to switch insurance carriers.

(2) Local auto dealers charge $299-$499 for this same service (real price should be $25-$30)- What a ripoff! (Note dealers also charge $200-$1000 for replacement headlights when you can buy headlight cleaner and restorer for under $20).

(3) You can easily purchase it direct from the manufacturer below cost right through the internet!

Police departments, insurance companies, AAA Auto Club, Motor Week, Speedvision TV, and leading consumer groups and publications all recommend window etching as a strong theft deterrent and a great investment.

The top 10 most stolen autos:

1. Toyota Camry
2. Honda Accord
3. Oldsmobile Cutlass
4. Honda Civic
5. Jeep Cherokee
6. Chevrolet trucks
7. Toyota Corolla
8. Chevrolet Caprice
9. Ford Taurus
10. Ford trucks

Did you know that every 19 minutes a car is stolen in this country! Vehicles equipped with a visible theft deterrent system are 4 times less likely to be stolen. Auto etching uses a strong caustic to etch vin #'s and other registered numbers into your car windows (glass is the third most valuable item after plastic headlights and air bags that professional thieves look for - these items are then resold on Ebay and elsewhere by these thieves for quick cash). 95% of thefts are by professional car thieves.

Chemical auto etching is a safe process. No damage is done to the vehicle and it can be professionally done. It is very affordable as its actual costis 70 - 85% less than auto dealer's charge and has many benefits:

1) It has been proven to enhances vehicle value at resale.
2) INSURANCE DISCOUNTS OF UP TO 35% OR MORE!*
3) No mechanical parts to break down or need repair.
4) SAVE MONEY AND HAVE PEACE OF MIND! - 9 out of 10 auto thefts are by professionals who will not take a car with traceable numbers.

One of the most cost effective security steps is having a security number etched on each window. Start saving big on your insurance today! Auto etch, like headlight cleaner and restorer, is a bonafide product backed and used by the police in every state. It is guaranteed to save you far more than it costs, has numerous benefits, And you can undercut the dealer and buy it without paying their ridiculous prices ($200-$600+)! For more information on Auto etch and/or similar products like headlight restoration kits contact the author below or look up auto etch on the internet. * Insurance discounts can vary by state and by carrier

Auto Development Comes With Auto Safety

2008-10-05T20:07:00.000-07:00

Although automakers face soaring gas prices, the automotive industry still prioritizes safety amid the fast-paced race to which brand is the best in terms of fuel-economy.

The industry's new 'pre-crash' safety technologies target the crucial milliseconds before a crash or help drivers avoid the crashes in the first place, according to a report by the Associated Press.

On the other hand, according to the survey conducted by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), gas prices are pegged to reach more than $4 a gallon by 2015 and over $5 a gallon by 2020. The US auto industry has long resisted this, according to the academic survey released early this week, but it seemed inevitable now.

The UMTRI said it surveyed more than 100 power train parts experts, including chief executives, from across North America for the report.

"There is a consensus that fuel economy and emissions regulations will not just continue but substantially increase over the next decade," said UMTRI researcher Bruce Belzowski in a statement.

Rising gasoline prices last year prompted U.S. consumers to move away from large fuel-guzzling sports utility vehicles to smaller, fuel-efficient cars and crossover vehicles.

"This survey shows that though manufacturers are developing alternative power trains, they may not be working fast enough to meet the challenges imposed on them by government regulations or by potential dramatic increases of fuel prices," Walter McManus, director of UMTRI's automotive analysis division said.

However, despite such economic difficulty caused by the unending turmoil in the Middle East, the auto industry still manages to pursue what they have been doing since then; that is serving the consumers with innovative systems; an now with safety.

Technologies under development are as follows:

* Nissan is developing bracelets to be placed on young children that relay signals to vehicles in the area. Drivers passing through are told, "Children nearby, please be careful."

* Volvo has shown an XC60 crossover concept with a radar system that monitors vehicles about 20 feet in front of the car. When a collision is likely to happen, the technology helps the driver avoid a rear crash by automatically activating the car's brakes.

* Mercedes-Benz already offers advanced safety features such as long-range and short-range radar to avoid crashes by automatically hitting the brakes if the driver fails to stop in time. It also has developed a feature called 'Night View Assist', which uses infrared beams to detect roadway obstructions far beyond the headlights' reach and transmits an image on the instrument panel.

* General Motors has been developing vehicle-to-vehicle technology, which helps vehicles communicate with other vehicles up to a quarter mile away to alert each other against dangerous conditions.

* Ford has experimented using four-point seat belts, similar to belts used by race car drivers, and inflatable seatbelts. These seatbelts have with small air bags inside that deploy in a crash.

Nonetheless, company officials say the advancements still are being evaluated.

The Latest Innovation of the Car Industry

2008-10-04T20:05:00.000-07:00

With all the innovations that were made for the car industry, one may find himself easily relying on the trends of Wholesale Auto Parts. This means that whatever gadget or car enhancement part that becomes necessary for one's car, may easily be acquired. Gone are the days when one has to direct himself to the dealer of his car just to replace his old parts.

For example, when one encounters the need to replace his worn out and dying struts, he may easily resort to auto parts wholesale. The struts are critical parts in one's car. It absorbs the shock that the car experiences, making the passengers immune to the external forces that may cause the car to react. Incidentally, car parts wholesale gives the variety of needed struts---from different brands like the BMW strut, the Volvo strut, to different price ranges.

Different car parts manufacturers have found an easy way to retail their products to car owners who do not have the time to visit their stores. The giants in the car industry also subscribe to wholesale auto parts, making their products available for those who need them. However, one may doubt the genuineness of the products. Some buyers are concerned more if the part will perform just as good as the car part that was actually bought from the car dealer. But these issues were dispelled as the growing business of wholesale auto parts have flourished.

One may easily gain an access to Wholesale Auto Parts, as different forms of marketing have evolved. In fact, with just a click of the mouse, one may look for the car part that he needs, and be able to shop as well. However, one must be keen on choosing where to avail wholesale auto parts. Other stores may have defective stocks while the others may sell the best. The people's need for variety and choice became the prime reason why these kind of retail exists. Because as car parts developed, so did the need of the people to get them.

Find Wholesale Distributors through Retail Industry Associations

2008-10-03T20:02:00.000-07:00

In today's installment of "Proven Techniques that Top Retailers Use to Connect with REAL Wholesalers" we're going to discuss possibly the most valuable resource for finding wholesale suppliers (as well as for receiving many other incidental benefits) - the Retail Industry Association. Now, I look for wholesalers in a lot of different places. Some require more work than others, and some will seem almost like common sense when you learn them. The point here is that finding real wholesale suppliers is not difficult, and anyone can do it themselves for free if they have patience, a little bit of industry knowledge, and their willing to search in many different locations.

Before you can locate the best wholesalers, you need knowledge of your industry, be it clothing, consumer electronics, auto parts, or any of a number of consumer goods categories. For this reason, I feel that the best place to get started in your supplier search is to join Retail Industry Associations - especially ones that deal with your specific niche. These groups will often give you access to directories of suppliers within the industry. If they don't, it is easy to network with other members of the association to locate suppliers within the industry. And there are so many associations out there - from large general retail associations to smaller niche-specific ones.

Finding retail industry associations is very easy. Simply do a Google search for:

Retail Industry Associations
Retail Industry Organizations
Retail Industry Associations for Consumer Electronics, Jewelry, any specific niche
Retail Industry Organizations for Consumer Electronics, Jewelry, any specific niche

The reason that I recommend retail industry associations first is that they offer so much more to their members than just wholesale sources. The biggest advantage, even more so than connecting with wholesale distributors, is access to education. Retail industry associations often hold seminars and conventions, or they will keep you abreast of other organizations that are holding seminars and conventions. (By the way, conventions are another place where you can hook up with wholesalers.)

Retail industry associations will keep you on top of the latest news from within your industry. It is very important to keep up to date with what is going on in your industry, or else you may get left in the dust as your competitors pass you by. You will often receive valuable tips and tricks to improve your profits, and we could all use a little more profit, couldn't we?

Finally, many of these organizations are great places to network with other business owners in your industry. It will give you a chance to meet new people with similar interests, but more imporant, there's a great chance that you can get some support from business owners with more experience than you. Access to support is something that new business owners need more than anything, and this reason alone is enough reason to get involved with a retail industry association.

Shop For Auto Parts You May Need For Your Vehicle

2008-10-02T20:01:00.000-07:00

Inevitably, if you own a vehicle you will eventually need parts for it. It doesn't matter if your car is 30 years old or 5 years old, sometimes you have to get additional replacement parts even if it is something as simple as a light bulb. Whatever the case may be, there are numerous places you can look into to find the parts but you want to try to find them at the best price as well.

Many people feel compelled to pay the price for brand new parts if they have a newer vehicle and if they shop at their dealer or at a local auto parts store they will probably pay the highest price possible. The thing to remember however is that there are probably tons of cars just like yours with the same parts that will work perfectly on your car lying around in wrecking yards or even on the internet. The best thing about this is that these parts can be found at a fraction of the cost of a new part and in most cases will work just as good and last just as long.

For vehicles that are only ten years old or so you will be able to find all kinds of parts for them at a local auto wrecker. They usually have a plethora of parts like windshields, mirrors, radiators, wheels, and even motors! You can save a ton of money this way. I remember having to buy a shift assembly for a Dodge Neon for my son, the dealer wanted nearly $200, I got it at a local salvage yard for $20 and they removed it for me! Some of the better ones will even have the parts they have available listed on a computer so all you have to do is ask if they have the part or not.

If you have an older vehicle it is sometimes difficult to find the part at a reasonable price due to supply and demand and the fact that they just don't keep that many parts around for vintage vehicles. If this is your situation the best place may be the internet. There are numerous online parts stores that will have access to parts like these and if all else fails you can also try eBay. I have had great success finding parts for rare vehicles there.

If you own a vehicle that was made in the early sixties or before you will probably have a tough time finding parts that are inexpensive. In most cases the parts will be rare and difficult to find and the rarer they are the more they are going to cost. It may be best to check all of the salvage yards in your area first, and then check out used car locaters online who may be able to help you find what you are looking for. Many of these sources have networks of parts houses that may have what you need.

Go Online and Look for Auto Parts and Accessories

2008-10-01T19:57:00.000-07:00

Do you have a domestic or import car? Or perhaps a SUV or a truck? Whatever kind of automobile you have, surely you are concerned with finding the best auto parts and accessories that would complement it. It can be pretty tiring indeed to make rounds and go to stores and shops just to look for the best with the most competitive prices. Well, you need not make the actual rounds anymore at actual auto parts and accessories. What should you do, then? Well, just go online!

The World Wide Web is teeming with great online stores or shops were you can find a wide selection and unbeatable assortments of auto parts and accessories. The main attraction? They are available at wholesale prices! If you are worrying about deliveries, you can pick them up yourself!

Many online companies perform the function of either wholesale distributors or resellers of a wide range of auto parts and accessories for the 600 or more automotive parts and accessories manufacturers all over the world.

According to a recent report, the annual spending of the worldwide market for different automobile parts and accessories reach billions.

So how do you search for the particular car parts you need? Well, you just have to log on to a search engine like Google, Yahoo! Or MSN then enter the particular model, make or brand of auto parts and accessories that you need. Presto! You will find many web sites that offer the things you require for your beloved vehicle. You are also going to be offered with a choice of whether you like a new or used part or accessory for your car, truck, RV, etc.

Thousands of online auto parts and accessories also offer a great range of discount prices for their stuff. And they are offered all over the world, they can be accessed 24/7 and you need not worry because their online sales are based from real time and secure inventories. If you are quite a busy person, it is very convenient to just log on into online stores from all over the world and find major sources of parts and accessories that your vehicle requires.

Shopping for car parts online will also benefit you greatly since the web sites offer lots of free information and advice. They also provide news and updates regarding upgrades in automotive parts and accessories. These allow you to make informed assessment regarding the qualifications and experience of the online vendor you are considering buying from. Not enough information about purchasing aftermarket auto parts and accessories? Well, you can also avail of free advice for these matters and many other concerns you may have concerning your vehicle and the specific part and accessory that it needs.

Online stores and shops also have many catalogs that feature a complete selection of original equipment manufacturer (OEM), replacement automobile parts and accessories and all of the top makes and brands of aftermarket performance auto parts and accessories. What more, they are often available for low, low discounted prices!

Used Auto Parts Are Better Than New Auto Parts

2008-09-08T20:39:00.000-07:00

For the last 60 years auto recyclers, otherwise known as auto wreckers or auto dismantlers with their junkyards and salvage yards, have played an important role in the economy and environment. More and more car owners are turning to used auto parts rather than new car parts for their car maintenance and repair needs, for several reasons:

Purchasing used auto parts instead of new car parts allows you to save money by about 55% on average.
Purchasing used car parts means that you have a wider selection in the used parts market from which to pick the right car part that specifically meets the fit, functionality and quality requirement of your current car and car parts.
By purchasing used auto parts you are helping to lessen the pollution to the environment. Automotive recycling plays an important role in conserving natural resources and minimizing the demand on scarce landfill space. Other then lessening the negative impact on natural resources, Automotive recycling plays a major role in reducing water pollution, air pollution and solid waste generation.

Guide to Buying Used Auto Parts from Auto Recyclers
Keeping your car roadworthy can be a very expensive undertaking these days, especially with today's tough economic climate making it more difficult for many people to earn and save money. But by using used auto parts, not only can you save money, you can also help conserve natural resources, and still get the correct specified parts for your car. For these reason, thousands of people every year elect to purchase used car parts.

With this increase in demand, the internet has become an ideal vehicle in bringing the buyers and sellers of used auto parts together. Before you make your used car parts purchase online, here is a general guide to assist you in choosing the right auto parts at the best price.
Whenever you purchase a car part, make sure you have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) handy. This number can provide the seller with a lot of information about your car, including the year, make and model. Having your VIN available is especially important when purchasing drive train components such as engines and transmissions.
Make sure the company from which you are buying the auto part offers a warranty on the part. Make sure you read and understand the terms of that warranty before making the purchase. Find out how many miles are on the auto part, and find out whether the part is being sold as used, rebuilt or remanufactured.

Customize Your Automobile

2008-09-08T18:32:00.000-07:00

The automobile has come along way since it was first introduced. The automobile is now so much more than just something that gets you from point A to B. It has become more than a luxury necessity; it has become an extension of who you are. From the color of the vehicle, the wheels it sits on, to how many cup holders it has, it reflects the personality of its owner. In meeting with this demand of personalizing vehicles manufacturers have worked hard in succeeding this goal by offering a selection of accessories suited to car owners of all budgets and expressions.

Automotive accessories are all about transforming your vehicle into something that stands out, shows personality, functionality, and who you are. What is so great about accessorizing your automobile is that you can make it so unique. You can go after so many different looks, and performance options it is endless. Most people start to customize without even knowing that they are. You add an antenna topper, tint your windows, add a bug guard, and personalize a license plate, that's all customizing.

Aftermarket automotive accessories are just not for the outside of the vehicle. You can upgrade your interior as well with items like your pedals, steering wheel, stereo, dash board, knobs, and seats to name but a few. Don't forget your performance accessories as well, such as air intakes, pullies, exhaust, and headers. Then you have your comfort accessories, extra cup holders, heated seats, GPS systems, etc... Upgrading and personalizing your vehicle is easily achieved with automotive accessories and doesn't need to cost a fortune. Although, before you buy any accessory, you must first make sure that the product is made from top quality materials and by a reliable manufacturer. By purchasing accessories through trusted retailers you are ensuring yourself that you are going to get parts that will fit nicely with your vehicle and compliment the desired look that you are trying to accomplish.

It doesn't matter if your automobile is in new or used condition, automotive accessories are necessary to continually improve, maintain, and distinguish the look of your vehicle. Vehicle accessories are part of auto customization that can prove to be an easy start to the world of personalizing your vehicle. Many accessories are low enough in cost that they are not out of reach of the average vehicle enthusiast.

For the best selection and lowest prices, shop with a reputable dealer such as MPCustoms at www.MPCustoms.com

How to Find the Right Car

2008-09-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

Researching your new vehicle is a daunting task in today's world. Once you have narrowed your next vehicle down to 2 or 3 choices it is time to research. Take out a sheet of paper for each vehicle and write down pros and cons for each one. Also on each sheet of paper list the attributes which are most important to you. This list might include:

MPG - if you put a lot of miles on your car this factor could make a big dent in your wallet if you pick the wrong car.
Engine power - HP is a big factor for many people out there.
Price - nothing needs to be said about this one.
Interior space
Repair costs - consider the average costs to repair a fender-bender.
Insurance costs - this is often overlooked by buyers and can catch you by surprise.
Standard options.

Anything else, which is a factor to you?. The idea is to custom tailor your list to meet your needs. If you don't care about engine power then leave it off your list.

Now how do you get the information which is on your list? Here is a list of excellent resources to use in your search.

Offline:

Consumer Reports Magazine
Auto Week magazine
Your local newspaper's auto section
Local dealers

Online:

Consumer Reports - requires a subscription just like the magazine.
Edmunds.com
Kelly Blue Book
NADA guide book
Car.com

After your research is done you should have a clear picture of which car is right for you. What do you say? Clear as mud? Well take a step back and if you have 2 vehicles which are comparable you will then have to resort to one of the following.

Go with your gut feeling. You know the one which says get the Porsche not the Yugo. Ask your wife, husband or SO. (you might want to let them in on the decision a little earlier than this if they will be driving the car too.) Flip a coin. Ask your god for some divine intervention?

Deciding between aftermarket, oem, and genuine auto parts.

2008-09-07T20:01:00.000-07:00

Aftermarket, OEM, or genuine auto parts... you're confused about what to choose. If that's you, read the following.

Cheaper doesn't always mean inferior. Such is the case with aftermarket and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) car parts. While they are often up to 70% cheaper than genuine parts, they can be far superior in quality.

Like many car owners and car parts buyers out there, I must say that I once thought that the genuine parts sold by my local automotive dealer were better. Well surprisingly, this is far removed from the truth.

Do you think that car makers make their own parts? They certainly don't. They would probably like you to think so but this isn't the case.

OEM parts are made by the same manufacturer as the genuine part you would receive from your local dealer. In other words, it's really the same part. The only difference is the logo on the box.

Here's what happens. Car makers use outside independent companies to help them design their parts. But after a certain time frame the actual manufacturers of these parts are allowed to sell them to other wholesale distributors for resale. This time they come with the manufacturer's logo and not that of the car maker. So essentially, the identical part is now referred to as an OEM part.

How about aftermarket parts? Are they inferior to genuine parts? ...

Although aftermarket car parts are not made by the original manufacturer, they perform as well as the original. In many cases, the companies find a way of improving these parts so that the customer gets a part that is of superior quality.

There is no need for concern. Aftermarket car parts are produced with the same machinery and materials as OEM and genuine parts. While the parts may have a few minor differences in look and feel, they basically do the same job. The companies who manufacture these aftermarket auto parts are credible. They legitimately buy the rights to manufacture those parts.

You can order aftermarket and OEM car parts online today. It's easy. It's a great way to save money. Furthermore, you can have peace of mind, knowing that you're not compromising quality.