new or salvage - which parts are best for you?

After you get word back from your mechanic and learn that an important component of your vehicle has to be swapped out, there's a couple ways you can get the auto parts you need. Either your mechanic orders the auto parts from a distributor, you find a junkyard and pull the parts yourself, or you place an order with a supplier. Whether you need a windshield wiper transmission, a catalytic converter, or a steering wheel column, there's a specific way to go about ordering the right auto part. Here's the information that car owners should have on hand before attempting to order replacement auto parts for their vehicles.

Confirm Your Vehicle Identification Number

If you want to know with certainty that you're buying replacement auto parts that will work with your automobile, check the vehicle identification number. The vehicle identification number or VIN is located on your car title as well as your insurance cards. When you plug in your VIN number you can determine what size engine your vehicle runs on, the model, make, class, and even color of the car that you drive. When ordering certain car parts you need to confirm many details that can be difficult to suss out otherwise.

Check to See Your Replacement Parts Correspond With Your Car Make and Model

Whether you go to an auto part supplier or search for the right car parts via an online search, double check to make sure you get all of the details right. Some car parts can be used interchangeably on different models, years, or even car brands. Ensure that you are getting ready to order auto parts that will fit onto your specific vehicle and not a car that is deceivingly similar.

Make Contact With Your Mechanic

The last measure you should take before placing an order for any replacement auto parts is running the auto part name and number by your mechanic. Although you will need to wait until your mechanic has checked that you are buying the correct part, waiting a couple of additional moments for confirmation is way better than having to make a return. Realize that motorists often order their own auto parts and they commonly run into complications when it comes to getting the specifics right.

Use your VIN and other identifying information to get a fair deal on the correct replacement auto parts for your necessary repair. After you learn all your vehicle's specifications, ordering replacement parts will be as convenient as making the call to your preferred vendor.