pfogle, you are not right in what you say. I work with parts every day. I can tell you that there is a difference between asian parts and US parts.
Ed G

 

I agree with this, for the most part. I haven't personally had any problems with the quality from napa when I deal with them. And if there's been any problems, they've always been great to deal with to make it right. But, man (and yes, I know this goes for just about any big chain store - auto parts or otherwise), where do they find some of these people to deal with the public......

Ok, since we're on this general topic, I have to relate this story:

Now, back where I grew up there were only a couple parts places within a 10 mile radius. One was napa and the other I can't remember exactly what it was. But, these guys knew their stuff. Most times, we'd call and they would be able to virtually quote the part number without a lookup and would have it out on the counter when I walked in to pick it up. now, maybe that's just the small town mentallity.

Fast forward to present day, indianapolis, in: I'm looking for a specific part, comparing prices online while at work. Napa's got what I'm looking for and a reasonable price. I write down the part number. Go to napa. Give the cash register jockey the slip of paper with the part number and say I need 'blah blah blah' here's the number. Now, I start getting what vehicle, year, make, model, engine, tranny, etc, etc, etc. He punches it through the computer and I assume that he's maybe getting a bin number or something. Nope, takes the piece of paper I gave him.... writes down the EXACT same number I already had. Walks back gets the part and says here you go.

now, I can't say I mind the details for the lookup when I haven't done my research, but when you hand them the stupid part number..... *groans*

 

Some of them just have to prove they know more than you do and won't take your word that the part number you gave them really is the one you want. I get that kind of attitude at Kragen's, especially with one guy who works there (part of the reason I rarely shop there anymore-but that's another story) but I've never run into that at my local Napa stores. They seem to only hire experienced counter people, or train them well and actually teach them how to use a catalog when the part doesn't show up on the computer. We have several young guys in the store I frequent the most, and they all seem to know their stuff.

 

I always look up parts on internet also. I had paper with vehicle info and the three belts for it. Alternator, P/S, Air Pump. Ignored my list with Part Numbers, printed his own and then brought me three alternator belts of different manufacture, quality, and size.

 

I use to go to NAPA, but, the counter help got so bad I figured I might as well just pay less and get the same poor service at Autozone. After all, most of the parts are of the same quality and made by the same people.

I do not go to Autozone any more because of the poor and rude service, I go to my local Advance Auto Parts which seem to be better all around.

Pepboys is okay depending on the store.

If I have a choice and can plan ahead, I mail order it.