Nate Nagel wrote:


> AutoZone is actually pretty good as far as chain stores go

My experience is that Autozone is good at making you FEEL well-treated.
They honor warranties, they offer free testing of parts, etc. etc. etc.
On the other hand, their re-manufactured parts are among the worst I've
ever seen. If you want decent parts with the backing of a big-chain type
store, use Napa or Carquest.

> but
> honestly, I prefer to shop at the independent place because they have
> better service. If I find I need, say, a wheel cylinder kit for an
> older car I can usually order it in the AM and pick it up after lunch.
> They're more helpful than the chains as well with looking up obscure
> older applications, as quite honestly they have better counter help.

Yes on all counts. There are several local parts stores I use for all
those reasons. They also seem to be more careful in researching their
suppliers and coming up with quality parts, rather than "lowest-bidder"
grade parts. But I also use Napa and Carquest. I particularly like
Napa's on-line parts finding tool (napaonline.com).