How to Buy Foreign Car Parts

Buying parts for your foreign-made car can require more than a simple trip to the local auto parts store, though this depends, of course, on the specific parts you need. While bulbs and other such small parts are easily found, the more substantial parts are more difficult to find, and more expensive to purchase.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide if you want to deal in person with someone for the part you need, or if you're comfortable with finding an online service. If you decide to look for a dealer in your area, check the yellow pages for the nearest distributor of parts. This option may require extensive travel on your part.

2. Check the Internet for services that will allow you to buy foreign car parts with a few clicks of the keys. One such service is FAP99, which can be reached by accessing the link in the resources section.

3. Enter the FAP99 website and enter the year and make of your car. The following page asks you to be more specific as you narrow down the model. Once you do that, you will see a list of possible parts to buy.

4. Choose the general category of product you want to buy. Categories include wipers, emissions, belts, climate controls and so on, covering every component of your car.

5. Select the more specific part from the list provided, then select the part you need from the list that appears. With a click of your mouse, you can add your part or parts to your shopping cart, and pay by credit card or PayPal, according to your preference.

Tips & Warnings

• The return policy at FAP99 is reasonable and includes everything except manuals, custom orders or electrical components. If you need to return an item, be sure to have the original packaging, and the item cannot be installed, taken apart, or damaged through negligence on your part.
• FAP99 also deals in domestic parts going back several decades. If you need a part for your classic Chevy, for example, chances are good that you'll find it here as well.
• FAP99 may charge a 20 percent restocking fee, and they will not return shipping charges unless it was their error that caused you to have to return the item.

Resources

• A source for buying foreign parts online.
• A national locator service for foreign parts.

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