In an age where online shopping reigns supreme, finding the best deals can often feel like a treasure hunt. For Kandi, a savvy shopper and Toyota Camry Solara owner, the hunt led her to a surprising discovery that saved her a significant amount of money on car parts.
Kandi, known on TikTok as @theonlykisforkandace, was in search of new brakes and rotors for her 2008 Toyota Camry Solara. Her search led her to RockAuto, an online auto parts retailer where she found a “wholesaler closeout” deal that caught her attention.
She shared with her followers that she acquired a full set of front and rear brake pads and rotors for just over $122, shipping included. “That’s RockAuto for you, bro,” Kandi exclaimed, while displaying a screenshot of her purchase receipt.
In an effort to verify the quality of her deal, Kandi compared prices at Advance Auto Parts. She discovered that the cheapest rotor there was priced around $50, whereas similar rotors on RockAuto were listed for $11 to $12 each. “That’s insane,” she commented.
Following her purchase, Kandi pondered whether she should attempt to change the brakes herself, as she had done so successfully on a previous vehicle. Her video detailing this experience has garnered over 78,900 views.
Why Does RockAuto Offer Lower Prices?
RockAuto’s competitive pricing isn’t just a one-off deal. The company operates solely online, which allows it to bypass the costs associated with maintaining physical storefronts like those of Advance Auto Parts or O’Reilly Auto Parts. This online-only model helps keep overhead costs low.
Additionally, RockAuto’s inventory is extensive, offering parts from various manufacturers, providing customers with both budget-friendly and premium options. Their “wholesaler closeout” section often features parts being liquidated by suppliers, which means while the parts are typically in fine condition, the inventory may not be replenished.
However, shoppers need to be mindful of potential drawbacks. Parts can ship from different warehouses, potentially increasing shipping costs if orders are split. Moreover, without physical stores, returns can be less straightforward compared to local purchases, where immediate exchange and same-day availability are possible.
Popular Destinations for Auto Parts Deals
Kandi’s revelation sparked a lively discussion among viewers about preferred sources for auto parts deals. While some were keen to keep RockAuto under wraps, others openly shared alternative online retailers like Partsgeek.
One commenter pointed out the significant markup at traditional stores, stating, “Yeah so O’Reilly’s and Advanced Auto charge 3 to 4x the amount on purpose because that’s how they make [their] money.” Kandi agreed, noting, “There’s definitely a charge for convenience! And people pay it because they need it nooooow.”
Motor1 has reached out to both Kandi and RockAuto for further comments. Stay tuned for updates.
Original Story at www.motor1.com