[arpad_m]

Originally Posted by Camfab

I know what you’re saying but over the last 35 years I’ve made it a point to buy everything from my dealer. They know me as a loyal customer and extend me the same pricing the local shops get. Having the dealer in your back pocket has gotten me parts and leads that are priceless. This is especially true if you have older cars that benefit from the brain of a seasoned parts guy. It doesn’t stop me from checking pricing on the net.
On the flip side, I have zero allegiance to the sales dept as the dealership has changed hands multiple times, but the parts manager is still there.

In addition, there is another practical aspect: whenever you order a large part like a spoiler, splitter or diffuser, you can save a ton on shipping by ordering from your dealership and choosing local pickup. In many cases, this will offset any advantage online parts sites may hold in terms of price.

And, provided you have a good relationship, they may offer parts discounts, which sweetens the deal further even when they don't price match online sources.

[Camfab]

100%

[Vigilante375]

Originally Posted by Camfab

I know what you’re saying but over the last 35 years I’ve made it a point to buy everything from my dealer. They know me as a loyal customer and extend me the same pricing the local shops get. Having the dealer in your back pocket has gotten me parts and leads that are priceless. This is especially true if you have older cars that benefit from the brain of a seasoned parts guy. It doesn’t stop me from checking pricing on the net.
On the flip side, I have zero allegiance to the sales dept as the dealership has changed hands multiple times, but the parts manager is still there.

Some dealers will work with you but at this day and age where you can find everything online for cheaper and easily available, that's where the dealership fails. Plus like you said with a dealership changing hands or the people who know you leaving isn't as good as going online to find what you need at a good price.

Now you can find parts for sale on random dealer websites. Buy these days you'll find dealers saying oh that's on backorder. Which just adds to the reasons to not go to the parts department.