Re: [FWDLK] Bad parts counter people (was: MoPar Oil Filter)

[johnl <john@xxxxxxxxx>]

Normally I would not comment on the subject, but the e-mail below inspired me.  I've been in the parts business in one form or another for 37 years.  For the last 21 years I've worked for and currently own and operate a WD (warehouse distributor) that is 55 years in existence.  Our prime business has always been towards foreign cars although we do offer many items for domestics.

 

Over the years I've seen many changes in our industry.  Most of them not geared for the smaller WD such as us.  Auto Zone comes into areas and put the small independents out of the game.  For some reason the public seems to think they have it all, but the reality is they don't stock that much in their stores, but will be happy to order it for you if they can locate it within their computer.  Have you ever noticed when dealing with them the salesperson has to use the computer to get answers?  Well, if it isn't in the little box on his counter it doesn't exist.  Now if you use your smaller independent parts store you will most of the time find someone who has catalogs that go back much further than what is in the Auto Zone computer.  Also you will find someone who usually is willing to go that extra step to assist you in getting what you need.  Sometimes you get real lucky and find an old timer that has the info in his head.  You may pay a higher price, but not always.

 

A little background on how Auto Zone works.  A few years back someone came up with the idea of having the manufacturer supply parts to a central warehouse.  Once the item is sold at a store Auto Zone will pay the manufacturer 90 days from that time on that part.  I know of some companies that simply would not play this game and thus you don't see their products there.  This all ties into the Home Depot / Lowes thing about no interest for 12 months.  They are doing the same thing with their suppliers.

 

Car dealerships work on and supply parts for reasonably current models only.  Usually if your car is older they won't have the part and sometimes can't access it anymore.  Chevy parts are a great example of independents who got in the game and turned the old car parts business into an empire for people like us who enjoy old cars.  Usually, but not always these parts will be of better quality than the originals.  The buyer doesn't have a price issue as he or she needs the item to help complete a restoration or just keep the older car in operation.

 

Folks, this is what business in America has evolved to and it is not only in auto parts.  Do I like it?  Not at all.  The only way one can voice their opinion with businesses like Auto Zone is simply don't go there.  Like everyone out there I try to watch my money, but when at all possible I'll do business with the small independent.  To me knowledge and attitude of who one is dealing with is a big part of any purchase.

 

John Lazenby

 

1955 Chrysler New Yorker Deluxe Town & Country
1955 Imperial Newport
1955 Chrysler C300 Tango Red
1956 Chrysler 300B Cloud White
1957 Chrysler 300C Coupe Raven Black
1960 Chrysler 300F Coupe Alaskan White
1963 Volkswagen Beetle Black
2001 BMW ///M5 (A Modern Super Car)
http://www.bmwmregistry.com/model_faq.php?id=18

 

----- Original Message -----

From: John Bartell

To: L-FORWARDLOOK@xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Sent: Monday, July 23, 2007 5:50 PM

Subject: Re: [FWDLK] Bad parts counter people (was: MoPar Oil Filter)

AUTO ZONE!  

    They are in a zone alright!  I think it is called the "twilight zone."    A few years back,  I  was looking for some electrical connectors and other assorted wiring for cars.... generic everyday any old make car stuff.  I live nearly 30 miles from "The Zone" and I thought I would save the miles and be sure they have what I wanted.  And, ask if they may handle wire harnesses.

   AZ.. Ring...Hello, Auto Zone, this is  John Doe ( can't remember his name anymore) how can I help you ?

   me... Hi, do you carry electrical wiring and connectors for cars? 

    AZ...Yes.    

    me...Do you carry any wire harnesses? 

    AZ...Yes, for any make and year.  

    me...Do you have them in stock, or can you order them?

    AZ...We have several basic generic harnesses, and can order  for any make and year.

    me...Okay, I will head on over and take a look.

    me...Drive...Hi, where are the automotive electrical parts and wire harnesses?   

    AZ...   Right over here.  

    me...Where are the harnesses? 

    AZ... What harnesses?

    me... The generic wire harnesses I called and asked about? 

    AZ... We don't carry harnesses!

     me... Ok, then where is the catalog for ordering them?

     AZ...  We can't get harnesses.

     me... Doesn't your name tag say John Doe?

     AZ... Yes, that's me.

      me...When I called about 45 minutes ago you said you had or could order this stuff.

      AZ...Sir, I just told you we don't handle harnesses.

       me...Then why did you lead me to believe that you did on the phone?

      AZ... I am sorry sir, we can get any part you need for your car or truck.

       me...Wire harnesses are part of a car or truck.

       AZ...I can't help you.

        me...  that' s for sure!  Is your manager available?

        AZ...He is not in at the moment.   What can I help you with?

        me...  DUH!   Do you mislead all your potential customers on the phone just to get them in the store?

        AZ... I don't know why you are upset with me, I don't order the parts we carry!

         me... Thank God!  I'm outta here!

        Me... Drive...phone guy I believe Wayne Graefen referred me to about wire harnesses...ordered, got, like original.   Thanks Wayne!?

----

 

- Original Message -----

From: Dave Stragand

 

Subject: [FWDLK] Bad parts counter people

An old post, but on topic?  =)

 

On Tue, 16 Jun 1998, Dave Stragand wrote:

> This exchange took place between me and an AutoZone employee this

> evening...

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