Money Guide

How to Save $500+ Per Year on Car Repairs

No mechanic skills needed. Works for any car.

The secret: Dealers make money on parts, not labor. The same alternator a dealer charges $420 for costs $87 online. Buy your own parts and pay labor only.

01
Get an itemized quote

Ask your shop to separate parts from labor. Then look up the parts on PartSavr — 30 seconds to find the cheapest source.

02
Buy your own parts

Most independent shops install parts you bring in. Call ahead and ask. Order online, bring to your appointment, pay labor only.

03
Use PartSavr

Enter your car and the part. PartSavr compares RockAuto, eBay, Amazon, AutoZone and more — showing cheapest instantly. Free.

04
Find your OEM part number

Call dealer parts and ask for the OEM number. They'll tell you free. Search it on RockAuto for exact same part at 40-70% less.

05
DIY the easy stuff

Cabin air filter, engine air filter, wiper blades: 5-minute jobs shops charge $40-80 for. YouTube has exact guides for every car.

Start saving on your next repair

Find cheapest price now