Buying a part online saves time and effort, but it removes the advantage of buying in person: you can't hold the part, weigh it in your hand and read what's printed on it before paying. That can be compensated for, but it takes a procedure — and that procedure is what this guide sets out.
This is the single most important step. The same component can differ between two production years of one model, and a description in words ("oil filter for a 2015 Kia") leaves wide room for error. Ordering by part number is far more accurate:
| Ask | What the answer reveals |
|---|---|
| Is it original, aftermarket or used? | A serious seller answers plainly — vagueness here is a signal |
| What exactly is the part number? | Not knowing it means not knowing what they're selling |
| Are the photos of this part or from a catalogue? | Ask for a real photo with the packaging |
| What is the return policy if it doesn't match? | Agree it before paying, not after |
| Is there an invoice with the number and item? | The basis for any later claim |
A catalogue image shows what the part should be, not what will arrive. Ask for a photograph of the actual part with its packaging, and a close-up of the number printed on it. Someone who has the part sends it within minutes; someone who stalls on that simple request is telling you something.
Don't hand the part to the workshop before checking it yourself:
The full detail is in our counterfeit parts guide.
Used parts specifically are hard to assess from a photograph, because condition is everything. If you do buy used remotely, agree returns in advance and favour a seller who allows inspection or hand delivery. See our guide to used parts.
Browse the parts listings, and favour sellers who state the part number and condition clearly and will accept inspection or payment on delivery.
Order by part number rather than description, ask for a real photo with the packaging, agree returns before paying, and inspect the part yourself before handing it to the workshop.
Order by part number rather than description, because the same component can differ between two production years of one model. Read the number off the old part or give the seller your chassis number, and get the number confirmed in writing before shipping.
Specific questions: is it original, aftermarket or used; what exactly is the part number; are the photos of this part or from a catalogue; what is the return policy; and is there an invoice stating the number and item.
Match the number against what was agreed and against the box, weigh it against the old part since noticeably lighter is suspect, inspect the edges and finish, try to rub the markings off, and photograph both before fitting.
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