It quickly became apparent that it helps to have the VIN number of the car, not just the make and model, to help speed the parts lookup process.
All the dealers said they’d have to special order the parts from the nearest warehouse, stating that it could arrive as soon as the next day but that it would definitely arrive within a 3 to 5 day window. Also, because it would be a special order all sales were final.
The level of knowledge and experience varied. One guy asked me if this was for the front or back seat (MR2s only have 2 seats). But overall they were quite helpful, offering installation advice and tips.
In the end I spent 15 minutes to make four phone calls and received four quotes ranging from $156 to $192 for the same part from the same warehouse, a $36 difference. Time well spent.
The takeaway is to know what it is you need, or the right questions to ask, and get the name of the person you speak with at each shop. And of course, always take notes.
All the dealers said they’d have to special order the parts from the nearest warehouse, stating that it could arrive as soon as the next day but that it would definitely arrive within a 3 to 5 day window. Also, because it would be a special order all sales were final.
The level of knowledge and experience varied. One guy asked me if this was for the front or back seat (MR2s only have 2 seats). But overall they were quite helpful, offering installation advice and tips.
In the end I spent 15 minutes to make four phone calls and received four quotes ranging from $156 to $192 for the same part from the same warehouse, a $36 difference. Time well spent.
The takeaway is to know what it is you need, or the right questions to ask, and get the name of the person you speak with at each shop. And of course, always take notes.
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