4 reasons not to bring your own parts to a mechanic

Let’s face it – there’s no such thing as the perfect car that doesn’t ever need a visit to the mechanic.

Now, the mechanic visit or trip to the workshop can be very costly and, after inspection, your mechanic might give you a list of expensive auto parts that are needed, increasing the cost of your repairs substantially.

As a scrupulous saver, you may be itching to go out and buy the parts listed to reduce the potential cost of your repair bill.

Even though it might save you up to 20% of the total repair charges, here’s why we do not consider this to be a smart idea when it comes to an effective repair or service visit to the mechanic.

1. No guarantee or warranty for the parts you bought

When a mechanic sources and installs new parts on your vehicle, they are usually fitting parts they know are of good quality, and will perform reliably. 

Because of this, they are happy to back all warranties and guarantees of that product. They know if it fails, the reputable brand they bought the part off will be easy to deal with, which results in a better experience for you if the scenario ever arises.

If you bring your own parts, the mechanic can't be sure that they're quality parts, even if they're from the same brand. Why? They don't know the history of the parts, whether they're new or old, or if they're faulty in some way, or if they've been tampered with. 

A mechanic may refuse to fit these parts because if something fails, it causes a grey area in regards to whether the mechanics' workmanship is to blame or if the parts are to blame.

To avoid getting sub-standard parts, it’s always better to let the experienced mechanic make the call for your car parts.

After all, he’s an expert at checking the part’s compatibility and knowing what’s really suitable for your car.

2. The mechanic or workshop could be held legally responsible

Even though the mechanic didn’t guarantee the parts you bought but agreed to install the parts you supplied, the mechanic or workshop can be held legally liable for the parts that they installed.

They could be held liable for sourcing and installing new parts, and wearing the entire cost. 

3. You might not be right

Come on now, wouldn’t you have done it on your own if you were so confident of your expert car knowledge?

Yes, even though the mechanic told you that oil filters were needed, you might not be able to buy and get the right ones in time.

Hence, it’s better not to waste your time or money and let the mechanic sort it out.

4. It is a hassle in itself

Are you willing to run from one place to another, searching for the necessary parts all over town, just to save a few dollars?

Getting the right parts for the job is not an easy task and should really be done in person, rather than over the phone, to ensure you’re comparing apples with apples.

Your time is worth more than that, not to mention the cost of petrol when driving from store to store. All this and there’s still no guarantee of quality.

So trust in your mechanic and their skills. Yes, the process will cost you a bit more but you’ll avoid the hassle and get the best possible parts for your car repairs. If something goes wrong, the process of getting it fixed is as clear as day, so your car can get back on the road sooner. Quality and safety are far more important than money!

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