A dealership may be the best place to buy a car, but it’s far from ideal when shopping for auto repair parts. Though some major replacement parts should generally be purchased from the dealer, many of the more common parts you’ll need for everyday repairs can be found for much less at other shops. Here are just a few examples of items you should buy elsewhere.

Top 4 Auto Repair Parts That Are More Expensive At a Dealer

1. Tires

Car tires offer varying performances based on the manufacturer and model, with differences in expected lifespan playing a key role in pricing. However, dealers tend to only carry the most premium brands so they can increase their profit. Going to a local shop will give you a greater selection of brands and models so you can find tires that fit your budget.

2. Oil

Many dealerships offer car oil labelled with their custom logo—but this oil usually isn’t any different than what you’d find from any reputable manufacturer. Opting for the more generic brand will help you land big savings.

3. Battery

While there are some areas where OEM parts will outperform aftermarket components, the car battery isn’t one of them. A high-quality aftermarket battery can offer the same level of performance as an OEM replacement at half the cost. 

4. Bulbs

The light bulbs for your vehicle’s interior lighting, headlights, and taillights won’t last forever. Buying directly from the dealer can prove surprisingly expensive. On the other hand, you can even find xenon bulbs for under $30 when shopping from a local parts store. 

When you purchase needed parts from a locally-owned business, you’ll not only enjoy better prices—you’ll also get reliable auto repair work to install the new components. Hudson Tire & Battery has served Boone County, AR, for over 60 years, providing affordable work at a high standard. To learn more about how their certified mechanics can help you, visit them online or call (870) 741-2740.