Car repairs are a fact of life

If you drive your car long enough, you are bound to need parts replaced. From routine maintenance to parts that wear out, repairs are a fact of life when you own a vehicle. An important part of the repair process is selecting the right auto part for the job. Picking the correct part means striking the right balance between price and performance.

You want to spend your hard-earned money where it counts most, on those parts that are critical to the safe operation of your vehicle. Read on to discover the seven parts that it pays to spend a little more on. These are all parts that play a significant role in keeping you and your passengers safe on the road.

Brake pads & shoes

Ensuring that your vehicle comes to a stop, it can be argued that your brakes are the most important safety system in your vehicle. When it comes time to replace your brake pads or shoes, be sure to select parts that are OEM quality or better. This isn’t the time to take a chance on off-brand parts; you want to be confident that your car will come to a safe stop every time you press down on the brake pedal.

Tires

Helping your vehicle stop and navigate in inclement weather, your tires are the one thing between you and the road surface. Buying high quality tires can make a big difference in the ride and handling of your car. With premium tires, you will get an advanced tread design and quality construction and materials that all contribute to the gripping and stopping power of your tires.

Spark plugs

They may be small, but spark plugs are one of the most important parts in your car’s engine. Vital to the combustion process, spark plugs help your car run. Selecting premium spark plugs made of platinum, iridium or copper delivers reliable performance every time you turn the key and cuts down on misfires and hard starts. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended spark plug for your vehicle.

Lights

From driving at night to getting caught in a rainstorm, seeing as much of the road as possible and being seen by others is crucial to staying safe. Your headlights and taillights are key components to the safe operation of your vehicle. When changing your lights, don’t choose the cheapest bulb; there are many high tech options including LED, xenon and HID lights that give you an uncompromised view of the road.

Shocks & Struts

Hitting potholes and bumps in the road is jarring to your car; it is the job of your shocks and struts to deliver a smooth ride. Worn shocks and struts can compromise your ability to control your vehicle and lead to steering, stability and stopping issues. Investing in high quality shocks and struts pays dividends by helping maintain vehicle alignment and extending the life of other steering and suspension parts.

Battery

Without a premium vehicle battery, you’ll be stuck in your driveway waiting for a tow truck. A lesser quality battery may look like the OEM battery that was in your car, but there are key differences that affect the performance and lifespan of the battery. The case, posts and plate connection can all be inferior which can cause the battery to prematurely fail. Choose a high-quality battery to keep your car on the road. 

Wipers

Having a clear view of the road is imperative to the safe operation of your vehicle. When your wipers aren’t effectively cleaning your windshield, it can pose a hazard when driving in rain or snow. It can be tempting to pick up the bargain wiper blades; but there is a difference in quality, materials and performance. Premium blades are designed to deliver a consistent wipe for clear sight lines.

Learn more about quality auto parts, find your car part, or find a local car repair shop today.

The content contained in this article is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice from a certified technician or mechanic. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.