10 Things You Should Know When Buying Vintage Auto Parts Online
Purchasing anything online from a seller that you are not familiar with can be daunting. However, since it is hard to find vintage auto spare parts and there’s no available physical store nearby, taking a chance online can be your best hope.
So if you are determined to participate in an online hunt and go through multiple auction listings, here are some tips to help you. This article will help you reduce such risks and hopefully even get a good deal out of it.
Let’s start!
You are the Expert
You should know that although some online sellers are experts concerning what they are selling, still many of them are not. So to ensure that the auto part being offered is the right one for your vintage car, conduct a bit of research first. Also, do not be shy to ask meaningful questions.
For example, if the item was bought at an estate sale and the seller only has a bit of knowledge about it, asking him the question “Will it fit in my car?” is pointless. This is because evidently, he does not know. So instead, ask him to give you the casting number or identifiers of LED lights replacement for your tail or head lights. Then you can research it for yourself.
Casting Numbers, Part Numbers, Stampings, and Date Codes
Any identifiable number on an auto part can help determine if it is correct for your vintage car. Note that there are situations where a casting number and part number are not alike. It would be best to type the part number and casting number you need into the online search engine to access photos and data. If the input you provided is correct, then more will likely come up to your search list.
Look for More Photos
Whichever online store you are shopping for, there is one sure thing: an indicated product photo. Apparently, the more images of the product available, the better. Therefore, if the posted images do not display what you intend to see (like casting numbers and other identifying number codes), try contacting the seller and ask for more photos.
Once he accommodates your request, you can make an informed decision. But if he stalls or refuses, consider this a red flag. You should not do any business with him anymore. Fortunately, there are tons of vintage auto parts online stores that can provide you with these kinds of requests, including www.sunwayautoparts.com. Check them out to see what we mean.
Make the Most of Your Purchase
Purchasing a product with additional parts more than you need to replace your vintage auto project can save you both money and time. For instance, getting a radio item with a suitable faceplate, knobs, and bracket is not bad. Also, a heater control panel that comes with cables and a shifter with correct shifter rods, handle, and so on is a good deal.
Think about this, if you have to purchase those extra parts separately from various sellers, it will really cost you more, aside from separate charges for the shipping fee. Hence, always look out for complete assemblies.
Do Not Buy the First Sample You See
Some online sellers think that their vintage auto parts are extremely rare and charge high prices. However, if it seems you need the piece and are willing to pay for it since you cannot get it elsewhere, then perhaps the seller is correct. Still, it would not hurt to check out other online shops for comparison or look for multiple other used auto parts sources that might have better deals.
Reproduction Replacements
Before buying a second-hand vintage auto part, you must check the established restoration companies to know the ideal prices for particular items. You might be surprised to learn that reproduction replacements are now available at reasonable prices. This is why conducting research first for your required material is crucial.
Shipping Insurance
You should know that some shipping companies insure parcels up to $100 accordingly. This is the item’s charge and its shipping expenditure when discussing shipping insurance with the seller, regardless of the carrier. This insurance would save you from the inconvenience if the item got lost during logistics.
Bid or Buy It Now
A few sellers on auction sites propose bidding selections, but they also offer buy it now options on their products.
The perk of buying it now provides you the guarantee of actually getting the item since you will not risk losing it to someone else in a bidding war. Moreover, you can get it quicker. The downside is that you might pay more for it than if you bid on it.
Know the Return Policy
Make sure that you are aware of the seller’s policy in advance. Some buyers prefer sellers who are open to accepting returns. However, some sellers do not accept return packages. So you better make sure you check the terms and conditions of the seller to avoid wasting time and shipping fees.
Restocking Fees
Another additional charge you might see is the restocking fee. The restocking fee is there to cover the time the seller spent preparing and shipping your vintage auto part only to have it returned. Some sellers are fair, but others charge as high as 25% of the item’s price, or even more. In that case, it is better to keep the product instead of returning it, and that is the behavior the seller wants you to have.
Conclusion
Buying vintage auto parts online may seem nerve-wracking since you are buying something that you have not yet held in your hands. But as long as you have followed the tips indicated above, you will be getting what you really expect. Best of luck with your purchase selection!