Questions and Answers

Dealer Versus Online Parts Q. Why is factory price for wheel axle $450.00 vs online price $120.00 per axle? Is there a significant advantage of going with the manufacturer built part? Is this an urgent repair? The car makes a rubbing noise while driving. I replaced the brakes and rotors two weeks ago. 2000 Suzuki Esteem.

A. When you buy a part at a Dealership, you are not just buying the part, you are buying the whole support system behind it. From the training of the parts people and the technical information they provide. Also when you buy a part from the dealer, you get the same part that was in your car from the factory. So you know it's an exact fit and specifically designed for your car. All in all, the best place to get the right parts for your car is the dealer.

Now before all the aftermarket parts people jump down my throat, I am not saying that aftermarket parts are bad. Not at all. In some cases the aftermarket part is better than the original part.

As for the online part. First of all the people who sell parts online have very low overhead which in itself is a huge savings. Second of all if they buy in large quantities they get a break on the price from the wholesalers. They have a much smaller staff and, in most cases, no money is spent for their training.

The down side is if you get a wrong or defective part, you have a long, and usually involved process in returning or exchanging it. You also have to wait a week or two to get it.

In your case, if the part is a rebuilt or remanufactured part, then you would probably be okay in buying the part online and saving a few bucks. But before you do, check the local NAPA, AutoZone or other chain parts stores. Their price will be competitive and you have the convenience of dealing with the place face to face.