why do people go into auto parts stores and ask for non-automotive items?

why do people go into auto parts stores and ask for non-automotive items?

I wouldnt go to my John Deere dealership and say:"you got a water pump for my camaro?" my son works for a national auto parts chain and i hear this alot when i go into his store

Many aftermarket vendors DO offer parts and supplies for non-automotive applications, and traditionally, parts stores have had cataloging and the personnel to find these parts. Considering that the OE parts at a JD dealership counter are often considerably more expensive than the aftermarket parts found in our stores, it can be a great savings to the customer. It is the same reason people choose us over the OE automobile dealer. It only benefits us (both at the store level, and industry-wide) to be knowledgeable about these nontraditional parts needs, and to be prepared to fill those needs. If a customer can purchase candy, soft drinks, and magazines at a parts store, then why should we turn away a sale for tractor parts?

Tom Dayton
JS Auto Supply

Are you referring specifically to off road equipment and such? If so, they may be off road and used in industries, but they are still automotive at heart. They have an engine, transmission, etc., and they break down also, just like a car. They need parts and parts stores handle that need.

Matthew Vaughn

You May Also Like

Gaskets vs. Seals

Whether your customer asks for a gasket or a seal, you know one thing: They’re trying to stop a leak.

Gaskets and Seals

Terminology is one of the hurdles we face day in and day out in the automotive industry. It varies between automakers, parts suppliers, technicians and consumers. Gaskets and seals are some of those terms that are easily mixed up from time to time. So, what’s the difference between a gasket and seal, since they’re both designed to do the same thing?

Check the Part: Return Guide for CV-Joint Kit

Dorman offers these three tips to help to determine if it’s a valid warranty claim.

CV Joint Kit
Selling the Complete Brake Job

These simple guidelines will help you ensure that your customers have everything they need.

Brake Job
Getting to Know Driveshaft Couplers

This often-overlooked undercar part
ensures a smooth transfer of rotational motion.

Driveshaft Couplers
Solenoids: Energizing Motion

Automotive solenoids translate electrical impulses into mechanical movement.

Solenoids

Other Posts

Customer Service: How It’s Done

Customer service should be your number one priority, and it all starts with the greeting.

Tool Intel: Why Are There So Many Screwdrivers?

Screwdrivers come in many shapes and sizes, and they are not created equal.

Assault on Batteries

Even EV batteries aren’t immune to the effects of extreme winter weather.

EV Batteries
Why Do Spark Plugs Get Dirty?

Being able to answer this question can help prevent them from failing prematurely.

Spark Plugs