Car Parts

Car parts are manufactured all over the world.  Just because you purchase an "American made car" - such as a Ford or Chevy - does not mean all of it's parts were made in America.  However, a certain percentage of the parts used in the manufacturing of an automobile are required to have originated in the United States - if the car manufacturer wishes to call it an American made car.  However, this is true with other manufactured goods as well.

 

 

The retail market for new car parts is vast.  Even in a small town, you'll find a number of National automotive parts retail franchises open for business.  The demand for new parts for cars needs to be quite high in order to sustain such a large number of businesses.  You'll also find a number of them available for shopping online.  A few examples of large retail chains that sell new parts for cars are AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O'Reilly Auto Parts. 

 

 

 

Becaue of the rising cost of new car parts, used car parts continue to increase in popularity.  Often, you can shop for used car parts online at websites such as Ebay.  You can also find a large selection of used car parts in salvage yards (also called scrap yards).  Salvage yards are businesses that purchase large quantities of automobiles that are no longer road worthy (not drivable).  Generally, a salvage yard will keep the entire car stored on the property - but will usually remove the most popular (best selling) car parts and stock them in their sales office.  Purchasing used car parts in this way offers the opportunity for saving money. 

 

Generally, car parts fall into one of these two categories.  First, those car parts made by the original equipment manufacturer are those that were manufactured and installed on the car before the car was sold as new.  Car parts sold by aftermarket supplies are those car parts that were manufacturered by a company for the purpose of replacing car parts made by the original equipment manufacturer.  For the most part, aftermarket car parts are quality car parts and sometimes even higher quality than OEM parts.  However, it would be wise to consult the owner's manual and waranty information regarding the use of aftermarket parts as this could have an effect.

 

Most car parts can be included in one of the following categories:  auto body, engine, transmission, drive train, interior, electrical, brakes, frame, steering / handling, and other.  Although it's beyond the scope of this knol - you can find a list of most individual car parts here.

 

AutoZone - A large retail source for car parts.  You will find them in most towns and they offer online ordering.