Car battery gone

[reb78]

Definitely and not eurocarparts or gsf type outfits, small independent motor factors are fantastic places.

But my experience is that the eurocrap chains have pretty much destroyed the small independent. Gone are the days where 'that Lucas part' fitted ten different models across three makes and the knowledgeable person behind the counter knew exactly what you needed.

Now we have a computer says no without a reg number till worker. I've lost count of the times I've walked in somewhere for a specific part and they argue with me when I say the reg is irrelevant as it's not the factory engine in the car.

I've given up and do most stuff online now. Most places will get parts to me next day if the order is big enough. It also means I can shop at night after work.

 

[PhillipM]

All the small local 'independents' around here order their parts from Euro, Halfords or BE on trade.
I can do that myself. And they're still not as cheap.

Even the local Varta guy is more expensive and often slower than me just ordering from Tayna

 

[steveo3002]

ebay for batterys cant be beaten for me

all the local independants are just chancers around here hoping youre thick enough to pay double or triple for a no name part that wont see 12 months out , i do all my shopping on ebay ,autodoc and amazon prime , got stuck for some tools the other weekend , amazon delivered sunday vs wait till monday for the shop to tell me they have to order it

 

[Turbo]

It is sad that you guys are losing your independent motor factors but I see it happening here too.

Some of the younger staff in our shops are of the 'computer says no' variety, particularly on older car stuff.
One of the older staff doesn't need the computer, can walk straight to the shelf and hand you the part. Then uses the computer to scan the part to get the retail price, then gives you a good discount.
When that older generation retires we will be left with the internet generation.

 

[steveo3002]

its one thing i think has gone for the best , back before the internet you had to buy whatever naff brand the car spares shop had on the shelf and pay what he felt like charging , now i can go online and in minutes have a wide range from cheap n nasty to premium brands to pick from , my slightly rare golf needed a p.a.s hose , nothing in uk , nothing in europe , press a few buttons and rock auto ship one from usa in 3 days , its great!