Will Parts Be Replaced When Getting Your Car Repaired at a Repair Shop?

[AmyLee]

Generally, parts will not be replaced. Below is a detailed explanation: Introduction: Generally, parts will not be replaced because there is no need to do so. It takes a lot of effort to dismantle an entire air conditioning assembly just to replace it with an aftermarket part—the labor cost alone would exceed the value. Normally, if a business operates long-term, no one would want to engage in such practices, as there are only a few popular parts in the aftermarket. Putting in so much effort with significant depreciation makes it more profitable to simply sell aftermarket parts directly. Precautions: If your car really needs to stay overnight at a repair shop, try to verify the work yourself to the best of your knowledge. Choose a repair shop with a good reputation and higher reliability, and always compare multiple options.

[BrielleAnn]

Last year, when I went to a small repair shop for the first time to change tires, I got scammed. They secretly replaced one with an old tire, passing it off as new. I didn’t notice and almost had an accident while driving. Later, I learned that before any repair, it’s crucial to discuss the replacement list in detail and take photos of the part codes as evidence. It’s best to watch them work on-site or choose a reputable chain store with surveillance. After the service, insist on getting the old parts back for comparison and keep the repair receipt in case of disputes. Most repair shops have a good reputation and won’t cheat, but there are always a few shady ones that take advantage of newcomers. I recommend checking user reviews on apps and choosing high-rated shops for safety. Remember, cutting corners or chasing cheap deals can backfire—especially for repairs involving brakes or the engine, extra caution is necessary.

[Gabrielle]

Having driven for so many years and visited various repair shops over a dozen times, I have honestly encountered situations where parts were replaced, such as being given a cheap oil filter during a routine service. But those are exceptions—most mechanics rely on integrity to make a living and wouldn’t risk their reputation. My advice is to stick with a familiar shop owner; over time, they’ll know you’re not easily fooled. Also, learn some basic car knowledge, like how parts should look, and always ask about brands and prices before repairs—don’t just take their word for it. After repairs, test-drive to check performance, and if something feels off, question it on the spot or seek an authoritative inspection. Stay cautious, but don’t neglect necessary maintenance out of distrust.

[Stephen]

After working in the auto repair industry for a long time, I've seen colleagues secretly replace customers' new batteries with refurbished ones to profit from the price difference. This belongs to the dark side of the industry but is by no means mainstream. The reason often lies in some shops prioritizing quick profits over reputation. I urge car owners to always request parts replacement records and personally inspect the old parts when getting repairs. If possible, supervise the entire process and choose large chain stores for lower risks. Remember, shops with transparent operations are more reliable—they proactively showcase their processes and provide after-sales guarantees. Avoiding low-price trap shops is key.