The world of auto parts is massive! You would be amazed to learn how many auto parts there are and how they come together to make your car work. For a car owner, it is essential to learn about the auto parts that are integral to their vehicle. If you don’t know about them completely, there are high chances you would end up getting scammed by the mechanics over a simple fault.
In this article, we shall discuss the different car auto parts, their costs, and when you should replace them.
Understanding Auto Parts Categories
Here is a simple cheat sheet that helps you learn about all the auto parts that make up your vehicle.
Major Component Systems
- Engine parts
- Transmission
- Suspension
- Braking system
- Electrical system
- Cooling system
- Fuel system
- Exhaust system
Maintenance Parts
These are the parts of the car that are most frequently replaced due to their constant use and wear.
- Oil filters (every 5,000-10,000 km)
- Air filters (every 15,000-20,000 km)
- Spark plugs (every 30,000-50,000 km)
- Brake pads (every 30,000-50,000 km)
- Tires (every 40,000-60,000 km)
- Battery (every 2-4 years)
3. OEM vs Aftermarket vs Genuine Parts
Original Equipment Manufacturer parts
These are the auto parts manufactured by the original car manufacturers. The best part about them is that they come with a reliable warranty. They fit perfectly in the car and are the best replacements for your vehicle.
To get them, you’ll have to pay a lot of money, as theyare expensive. Also, you’ll get them solely from the authorized dealers. If you live in a small city, there’s a good chance you’ll have to get them from a reliable online seller such as Autostore.pk.
When To Use
- New cars under warranty
- Critical safety components
- Complex electronic parts
- When resale value matters
Price range (Pakistan)
- Oil filter: PKR 800-1,500
- Brake pads: PKR 4,000-8,000
- Headlight assembly: PKR 15,000-40,000
- Alternator: PKR 25,000-60,000
Aftermarket Parts
Independent manufacturers manufacture the aftermarket parts. Hence, they are not officially affiliated with the car company. Also, you’ll see extensive quality variation among them, so choosing one gets tricky.
They are a cheap alternative to the original products, and you can easily get them from anywhere you want. However, they can cause fitment problems later on, and also don’t come with any warranty whatsoever!
Get them only if you are super tight on the budget or have an old car that doesn’t require a super expensive OEM part.
Price Range
- Oil filter: PKR 300-700
- Brake pads: PKR 1,500-4,000
- Headlight: PKR 3,000-10,000
Reconditioned Used Parts
Also known as used parts, these auto parts are taken from scrapped cars. Compared to the other types of parts, they are incredibly cheap and cost-effective. Some of the most commonly used reconditioned parts are body panels, interior trim, engines, and bumpers.
They are easy to get, even on a super-tight budget. You can call them even for discontinued car models.
However, they obviously come with no warranty. Also, you can’t verify their condition exactly.
Price Examples
- Used headlight: PKR 2,000-5,000
- Used door: PKR 5,000-15,000
- Used engine: PKR 80,000-2,00,000
Essential Parts Every Owner Should Know
A. Oil Filter (Change: 5,000-10,000 km)
Function: Removes contaminants from engine oil. Signs of failure: Dirty oil, engine noise, and oil pressure warning.
Cost: PKR 400-1,50.0
Brands: Mann, Bosch, Denso, Sakura
B. Air Filter (Change: 15,000-20,000 km)
Function: Cleans air entering the engine.
Signs of failure: Reduced power, poor fuel economy, black smoke.
Cost: PKR 500-2,000.
DIY-friendly: Yes
C. Timing Belt/Chain (Replace: 60,000-100,000 km)
Function: Synchronizes engine valves.
Critical: Failure causes catastrophic engine damage.
Cost: PKR 15,000-40,000 (including labor).
Note: Some engines have chains (no replacement needed)
D. Thermostat (Replace: 50,000-80,000 km)
Function: Regulates coolant temperature.
Signs of failure: Overheating or inability to reach operating temperature.
Cost: PKR 1,500-5,000
E. Coolant (Change: Every 2-5 years)
Types: Green, Red (long-life), Blue.
Cost: PKR 500-1,500 per liter
F. Cabin Air Filter (Change: 15,000-25,000 km)
Function: Cleans air entering the cabin.
Signs of replacement: Weak AC airflow, foul odors, dusty cabin.
Cost: PKR 800-2,500.
DIY-friendly: Very easy
G. Fuel Filter (Change: 20,000-40,000 km)
Function: Removes impurities from fuel.
Signs of failure: Poor acceleration, engine hesitation, and hard starting.
Cost: PKR 800-3,000
H. Transmission Fluid (Change: 40,000-80,000 km)
Types: ATF (automatic), MTF (manual).
Signs of issues: Rough shifting, slipping, and a burning smell.
Cost: PKR 3,000-8,000 (service)
When to Replace Parts?
Well, this may be tricky for you, especially if you are a new car owner. You must check the fluid level under the car. Check the oil, brake fluid, and even the coolant. Also, keep observing the tire conditions. Make sure that there are no cracks and bulges. Also, the belt condition and the lights’ functionality should be checked regularly.
Where to Buy Auto Parts in Pakistan?
Buying auto parts in Pakistan is easy for those living in metropolitan cities, as they have large local markets. However, if you reside in a small town, autostore.pk is always there to help you out, getting the best possible auto parts.
While getting auto parts from autostore.pk, you get:
- Genuine parts guaranteed
- Warranty coverage
- Expert advice
- Professional installation
Final Thoughts
Knowing about various auto parts that make a car functional is essential for a car owner. However, this understanding comes with time, and when you get pro at it, there is no chance of you getting scammed! If you are constantly Googling ‘auto parts near me’ but can’t find an answer, head towards autostore.pk and you won’t regret it!