where can i buy rc car parts

[StephanieLynn]

You can buy RC car parts from a variety of sources, including major online retailers, local hobby shops, and manufacturer-specific websites. For the widest selection and competitive prices, online marketmarks like Amazon and eBay are excellent starting points. However, for expert advice and immediate needs, specialty local hobby stores are invaluable. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize selection, speed, expert guidance, or price.

Major Online Retailers offer unparalleled convenience. Amazon is fantastic for common replacement parts like tires, shocks, and generic electronics, often with fast Prime shipping. eBay is the go-to for rare, vintage, or discontinued parts, as it connects you with individual sellers and small businesses worldwide. The main drawback is the inability to physically inspect parts before buying.

Local Hobby Shops (LHS) provide a hands-on experience you can't get online. The staff are typically seasoned enthusiasts who can offer tailored advice on compatibility and performance upgrades. You can see and feel the parts, and you get them immediately, which is crucial when you're in the middle of a repair. Supporting these stores also helps maintain a local RC community.

Dedicated Hobby Websites like Amain Hobbies and Horizon Hobby are specialists. They carry deep inventories from all the major brands (Traxxas, Arrma, Axial, etc.), ensuring you get the right OEM part. Their websites often include detailed compatibility charts, customer reviews, and helpful tutorials.

Manufacturer Direct is the best way to ensure you're getting genuine parts with a warranty. Companies like Traxxas and Arrma have their own online stores. While sometimes slightly more expensive, you are guaranteed perfect fitment and quality.

Here’s a quick comparison of these primary sources:

Source Type	Best For	Pros	Cons
Online Marketplaces (Amazon, eBay)	Common parts, budget options, rare finds	Huge selection, competitive prices, fast shipping (often)	Can be counterfeit parts, difficult to verify compatibility
Local Hobby Shop (LHS)	Expert advice, immediate need, community	Hands-on help, support local business, no shipping wait	Limited inventory, potentially higher prices
Dedicated Hobby Sites (Amain, Horizon)	Wide brand selection, OEM parts	Expert-focused, great customer service, tutorials	Shipping costs and delays
Manufacturer Websites	Ensuring 100% genuine parts	Guaranteed compatibility, product warranties	Can be more expensive, limited to one brand

[StBarrett]

Honestly, I just walk into my local hobby shop. It’s my first stop every time. The guys there know their stuff. I can tell them I stripped a spur gear on my Traxxas Slash, and they’ll not only have the part but might suggest a metal upgrade. No waiting for shipping, no worrying if I ordered the wrong thing. It’s instant gratification and you support a small business. For common stuff, it’s the only way to go.

[AvaMarie]

When you're serious about performance, you go to the specialists. I rely on dedicated online retailers like Amain Hobbies. They have everything from stock replacement parts for my Arrma Infraction to high-end racing components from brands like Pro-Line and Tekin. Their compatibility filters are precise, and the product reviews from other racers are invaluable. I'll also buy directly from the track-side vendors at competitions for last-minute tweaks. Online forums are also a goldmine for finding niche suppliers.

[SanBradley]

Budget is key for me. I scour eBay and Facebook Marketplace for used parts and lots. You’d be amazed what people sell after upgrading their rigs. I’ve built almost an entire spare truck from part-outs. For new items, I compare prices between Amazon and the big hobby sites, always looking for coupons or free shipping thresholds. It takes a bit more patience, but you can keep your hobby going for a fraction of the cost if you're smart about it.

[HopeRose]

I balance online and local. For planning a big upgrade—like a new motor and ESC—I’ll research on Tower Hobbies or the manufacturer's site. But for small, urgent repairs? That’s what the local shop is for. It’s also great for paints, glues, and tools. My advice is to find a good local store for advice and emergencies, and use online stores for their massive selection and better prices on bigger-ticket items. This hybrid approach has never let me down.