Can I Bring My Own Parts to a Mechanic? Here's What You Need to Know

In today’s world, we can find almost anything online with just a few clicks—including car parts. It’s tempting to buy a part yourself, especially when big-name websites spend millions on advertising to convince drivers they’ll save money by ordering direct. But is it really a good idea?

Many auto shops, including Wayside Garage, are often asked if we can install customer-supplied parts. While we understand the appeal, there’s one major reason why this isn’t in your best interest: warranty protection.

What Happens When a Part Fails?

Let’s look at a real-life example to illustrate why purchasing your own parts can lead to unexpected headaches.

A few weeks ago, a Jeep came into the shop with a clutch problem. The repair required removing the transmission—a complex, labor-intensive job. During the process, we also replaced additional parts due to their location. The repair was completed, the transmission was re-installed, and the customer picked up their vehicle.

But then, something went wrong.

One of the new parts we installed started leaking due to a defect. While this is rare, it can happen. Here’s where the real value of a warranty-backed repair comes in:

✅ Because we supplied the part, all it took was a quick call to our supplier to get a replacement part shipped immediately.
✅ We performed the entire repair again at no cost to the customer.
✅ The customer had minimal downtime, and their vehicle was back on the road quickly.

What If the Customer Had Supplied the Part?

Had the Jeep owner purchased the part online, they would have been responsible for the entire mess:

❌ Ordering a replacement part themselves (with no guarantee of stock or fast shipping).
❌ Paying again for the repair labor to remove and replace the faulty part.
❌ Returning the defective part and waiting for a refund—if one was even offered.
❌ Dealing with extra time, frustration, and inconvenience without a working vehicle.

That’s why purchasing parts yourself isn’t always a money-saving move. When a shop provides and installs the parts, you get peace of mind knowing that if something goes wrong, it’s covered.

A Repair Warranty = Your Built-In Insurance Policy

When you trust a professional shop like Wayside Garage, you're not just paying for the repair—you’re investing in quality parts, expert installation, and a guarantee that protects you. A warranty acts like an insurance policy, ensuring you don’t get stuck with extra costs or wasted time if something fails.

So, before you buy your own parts and search for someone to install them, ask yourself: Is the risk worth it?

If you want a repair done right—with quality parts and a warranty you can count on—schedule an appointment with Wayside Garage today!

📞 Call us at 831-899-2425
📍 Visit us in Seaside, CA