any difference in part stores?

[Matt_S]

Murray's is definitely my favorite around here. Their people are more knowledgable overall than places like AutoZone and PepBoys and they usually have at least one person available at any particular time that knows enough to give good advice. Their parts aren't always top of the line, but then they are a discount auto parts store. Besides, I've never had a problem. They also have the widest selection of AC Delco parts around, which is good for any GM people, like myself.

 

[MNgopher]

I've been happy with a nearby NAPA store. I haven't had a problem with any of the parts I've gotten from them, and they seem to have a very good selection and knowledgable folks at the counter. Perhaps a bit more expensive than the local Checker, but I have had more wrong parts than I can remember from there. Don't get me started on the local Carquest outfits...

I'm also happy (to a point) with my local Jeep dealership. They seem to maintain the best parts availibility of any of the other Jeep dealerships around, which may have something to do with being a Jeep ONLY dealership. Its imporatant they have good availibility, as all the others have to special order stuff for my '88 Jeep Cherokee (has a different, non-Chrysler fuel injection system only used from 87-90). Of course the tradeoff is cost, but...

 

[Lumberg]

I shop almost exclusively at AAP, only because of convenience.

I always call people by the name on their shirts and smile and am friendly, and also make it known that I have done my homework and know what's up. It helps when they slide their screens over so I can see what they are doing..which they seem willing to do.

Get em talking and they will reveal their ignorance...if they were smart they wouldn't be slinging parts. But I can ignore bad advice. Prices and availability seem fine, and a lot of the experience is what you make of it.

 

[davefr]

It all depends on what I need. NAPA has a better distribution network. If I need something that isn't in stock the NAPA stores can generally get it same day. The also have a better chance of having somewhat specialized parts that would normally be dealer only. I also think they also have higher quality standards. (probably because they cater to the Pros).

Autozone is OK but they don't have the depth of availability of NAPA. Prices are better and some of their warranty's are excellent. (Lifetime)

The worst is Schucks. They hire the lowest cost help they can find and typically only have 2 clerks on duty at each store. I've never seen the same clerk twice they come and go so quickly.
They do have some decent sales if you watch the ads.

 

[BatmanLS1]

I have never been able to find a part I need at PepBoys. I found out that they actually had an account at the NAPA close by.

So, I just go to the NAPA. They always seem to have the part I need, and I haven't experienced any issues with those parts.

 

[HerkyJim]

I use carquest. Good parts and service. I would have said NAPA too, but last two times I went in they seemed like they were doing me a favor, so no more.

 

[chas3]

counter help at napa is pretty variable. and while more expensive (sometimes not much, sometimes quite a bit) if they dont have the part they can get it quick and its usually good quality. they are the closest (just up the street) but dont have the best hours.

carquest is my other alternative. counter help there is usually awful (i imagine mechanics and garages get different treatment). it always a contest to guess the what name they are calling the part today.

advance auto parts is number 3 but i dont have real close locations. i would probably go their more often if i had one nearby. i have an alternator with a lifetime warranty from them. i replaced it once because i felt the bearings were too noisy. didnt get a hassle.

i shop at autozone for stupid stuff like touchup paint and oil (walmart is daycare around here).

 

[Bullet]

I buy from Autozone mostly because it close. KNow your name brands. Autozone sells cheap parts like belts, but you can also buy a goodyear gator back too.

 

[Jimbo]

It seems from this thread that there is no good answer. Every part of the country, or even individual store, is different. You cannot get a consistant read on which chain is best/worst from all these posts. I'm sure it also depends on what makes and ages of cars you have, since chains tend to only stock what "moves" in a given region.

For me in the LA area with a 1994 Ford, 1992 BMW and 1987 Dodge:

Lowest price/free tool loan = Autozone
Worst in-stock selection/least knowlege = Kragen
High price/indifferent attitute = NAPA
Highest price/best service = Dealers, but still not everything in stock.
Best overall price/in-stock selection/service = large PepBoys stores that also have service bays. They actually stock the unusual BMW-only sparkplugs, and cheaper than internet parts sources.