CONSISTENCY IN PRICE
After some experience with shopping parts prices you will get a feel for what the
average price should be for a particular part based on warranty, specs, and
manufacturer. Be wary of drastic differences. A higher price tag doesn’t
necessarily mean it’s better, and downright cheap usually means it’s inferior.
Also, don’t count out factory-rebuilt units such as AC Delco for GM, Motorcraft
for Ford, or MOPAR for Chrysler. In recent years car manufacturers have
realized that there’s a huge market for aftermarket parts, so they’ve jumped into
the arena, offering factory rebuilt parts at competitive pricing with great
warranties.
To illustrate this point I will tell you a story. A few years back I owned a
Chevy Lumina. The rack and pinion steering gear went bad, so I got an estimate
for an aftermarket one (including installation) from a local tire dealer in town.
The dealer’s price was more than $700. Just as a matter of diligence I priced the
same job at the local Chevy dealer. Their price came in at $450 using factory-
rebuilt parts with a lifetime warranty. That’s quite a difference, to say the least.