Typically, when you take your car to a mechanic, the professionals at the auto shop make any needed repairs or replacements using parts currently at the shop or parts they have ordered. However, sometimes drivers wonder if they might save money by purchasing parts on their own and bringing them to the mechanic. Before you shop around and make the commitment, let’s examine the potential repercussions of buying automotive parts on your own dime. Can I bring my own parts to a mechanic? Yes. Should I bring my own parts to a mechanic? Let’s discuss . . .

Can I Bring My Own Parts to a Mechanic?

“Can I bring my own parts to a mechanic?” you ask? Although the answer is simple – yes, typically you can – you will need to consider all the possible effects:

COST

You might assume that buying your own auto parts will inevitably save you money. After all, you can shop around and find extremely inexpensive parts. However, this choice can actually cost you money in the long run. First, you might choose a part that is not compatible with your car (and causes a repair or requires replacement). Second, you might purchase a subpar product that (while cheap) won’t stand the test of time. Third, some mechanics will charge a little more for labor because they are losing money on the parts. Finally, and most importantly, you will not receive a warranty from the mechanic if you bring your own parts. Because of this, some mechanics will ask you to sign a waiver so that if the part breaks or stops working, you cannot blame the auto shop. You must assume responsibility for your choice in parts.

VEHICLE

Unless you know what you’re doing, there is always the chance that you will purchase an incompatible part, as we mentioned above. You might also purchase a lower quality part. In either case, the product could be detrimental to the health of your vehicle. Your car could break down, other parts could be damaged, and you might have to replace the part sooner than you had planned. If you had used the parts supplied by your auto technician, the replacement would likely be covered by a warranty. But since you purchased the parts on your own dime, the replacement will also be your responsibility.

MECHANIC

Most mechanics you contact will not be thrilled about the idea of allowing you to bring in your own parts. Although they may accept it once you make it clear that you do not expect a warranty, they will understandably be concerned about the quality of the product and the likelihood of a breakdown. If a subpar part is installed at the customer’s insistence and that part fails, causing physical damage or personal injury, the mechanic could face a lawsuit. For these reasons and more, your mechanic will not be pleased if you walk in with a box of pre-purchased parts.

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So can I bring my own parts to a mechanic? 

Just as you shouldn’t walk into a restaurant with your own bread and butter, you shouldn’t walk into an auto repair shop with your own parts. We understand why purchasing your own parts might be tempting, but carefully consider possible repercussions before you head to the auto supply store. Some mechanics won’t accept outside parts, some will charge more for the labor, and if the part breaks or does not work, you will be responsible. In the end, you will save money by letting the professionals take the reins. Plus, the warranty will provide you with peace of mind.

Are you looking for a new mechanic? If you’re located in Springfield (MO) or northwest Arkansas, give ASE-certified Seeburg Service Center a call. Although we specialize in mufflers and exhaust system repairs, we also perform a variety of auto repairs and maintenance, including oil changes, alignments, and brake repairs. Our experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly mechanics will work hard to get you back on the road ASAP. To get started, please schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!

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