Returning car parts purchased online doesn’t have to be a headache. At Online Car Parts, we understand that sometimes a part might not be the perfect fit, or you may need to return an item for various reasons. This guide outlines our Online Car Parts Returns policy to ensure a smooth and transparent process for our valued customers.
Understanding Our Returns Policy
We accept returns on most items, but it’s important to understand the conditions and procedures to ensure your return is processed efficiently. Before sending anything back, obtaining a reference number is mandatory. This number helps us track your return and process it quickly. You can obtain this reference number by contacting our customer service team through our website or via phone.
Return Shipping Costs
Generally, the buyer is responsible for return shipping costs. This is standard practice for online retailers. However, there are exceptions. If the return is due to our error, such as dispatching an incorrect part, Online Car Parts will cover the return shipping fees. Similarly, if a part fails within the warranty period, we will also cover the shipping costs to return the item to us for assessment and, if applicable, for sending a replacement back to you.
Special Considerations for Electrical and Electronic Goods
Electrical and electronic car parts are rigorously tested before they are shipped to you. Due to their sensitive nature and the potential for damage from improper installation or pre-existing electrical issues in a vehicle, returns on electrical or electronic items are generally not accepted by most manufacturers. This is why it’s crucial to be certain about your diagnosis and the part you need before purchasing electrical components.
Alt text: Various car parts neatly arranged in their original packaging, emphasizing the importance of original packaging for online car parts returns.
Returns Due to Our Error
If you received the incorrect part due to an error on our part, we sincerely apologize. In such cases, Online Car Parts will take full responsibility. We will arrange and pay for the return shipping of the incorrect item and ensure the correct part is dispatched to you as quickly as possible. Please contact us immediately if you believe you have received the wrong part.
Returns Due to Buyer Error
If you purchased the incorrect part and need to return it, that’s also acceptable, but there are a few key conditions. Firstly, the part must be unused and in its original packaging. This is essential because we need to be able to resell the item to another customer. Carefully repackage the item to prevent damage during transit. In these situations, the buyer is responsible for the return shipping costs.
Important Note on Used or Damaged Returns: We cannot accept returns of incorrectly purchased goods that show any signs of use, grease, debris, or are not in resalable condition. If we receive a returned item that is not in its original condition, we will unfortunately not be able to issue a credit. You will be given the option to collect the goods from our premises or pay for shipping to have them returned to you.
Packaging Your Return
To ensure your return is processed smoothly and you receive your credit, it is vital to package returned goods securely. Please use bubble wrap or other suitable packing material to protect the item during transit. Goods returned damaged due to inadequate packaging will not be credited. In such cases, you will be responsible for collecting the damaged goods at your own expense.
Return Timeframe
Please ensure that goods are returned to us within 7 days of receiving your reference number. We reserve the right to refuse returns received after this 7-day period. This timeframe allows us to manage our inventory efficiently and process returns in a timely manner.
“Change of Heart” Returns
Sometimes, you might find a part cheaper elsewhere after making a purchase, or simply change your mind. These types of returns, often termed “change of heart purchases,” are generally not permitted under consumer protection regulations. The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) typically does not cover changes of heart.
However, if you have a “change of heart” return request, you are welcome to motivate your return to a manager at Online Car Parts. The decision to accept such a return for credit will be at the manager’s discretion. We encourage you to contact us and explain your situation, and our team will assess your request fairly.
Warranty Exclusions: Acts of God
Finally, please note that warranty coverage does not extend to damage caused by “Acts of God,” such as natural disasters, floods, lightning strikes, etc. Please refrain from returning items for warranty claims related to such events, as these will not be covered and may result in unnecessary return shipping costs for you.
Warranty Information
We stand behind the quality of our products. Our warranty is protected by the Consumer Protection Act, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
Professional Fitment Recommendation
For optimal performance and to ensure warranty validity, we highly recommend that parts be fitted by a trained technician with the necessary qualifications. Fitment can also be carried out by an accredited aftermarket repair center, such as one with RMI accreditation or similar. Qualified technicians will have the training and equipment to fit parts correctly, adhering to vehicle manufacturer specifications, including torque settings, specified lubricants, and computer-aided calibration if required.
Warranty Duration
Most of our products carry a 6 or 12 Month Warranty or 30,000KM, whichever comes first. If a specific product has a different warranty duration label, that label will supersede this general warranty. Always check the product packaging for specific warranty information.
Ensuring You Purchase the Correct Part
Please double-check that you are purchasing the correct item before completing your order. The best way to do this is to match the OE (Original Equipment) numbers on the part removed from your vehicle to the part you intend to purchase from us. If you are unsure, seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic or contact your local vehicle manufacturer’s agent to obtain the correct part numbers. If you are still in doubt, please contact us before purchase, and our knowledgeable team will be happy to assist you.
Alt text: A qualified technician professionally fitting a car part, highlighting the recommendation for professional installation to maintain warranty on online car parts purchases.
Warranty Claim Process
Returns under warranty are permitted within the guarantee period. A reference number must be obtained before returning any goods for a warranty claim. Returned items will undergo inspection and testing by the relevant supplier or manufacturer before a claim is finalized. To process a warranty claim, you must supply all relevant documentation related to the fitment, such as a Job Card, Odometer Reading, and Fitment Centre Accreditation (if applicable).
Important Note on Electrical Product Warranties
As mentioned earlier, some manufacturers do not accept returns on automotive electrical products due to their sensitivity and rigorous pre-shipping testing. Vehicles with existing electrical issues can also damage new electrical parts upon installation. Therefore, for electrical parts warranty claims, detailed diagnostics must be provided confirming that the specific part is faulty prior to purchase, not just generic fault codes. Fault codes from basic “palm-held” diagnostic machines are not accepted. We require diagnostics from comprehensive deep analysis handheld diagnostic machines. Please ensure you understand this policy before purchasing electrical components.
Non-Returnable Electrical Items: Burnt units on starters and alternators are not returnable. Similarly, regulators and sensors are highly sensitive and are also generally not returnable once fitted to the vehicle.
Warranty Exclusions: Acts of God (Reiterated)
We reiterate that damage to parts caused by “Acts of God” is not covered under warranty. Returning items with such damage will result in unnecessary return costs for the buyer.
Supplier’s Final Determination
The supplier will have the final determination on any warranty replacement. Their assessment and decision are final.
Terms and conditions apply to all returns and warranties. We encourage you to read this policy carefully and contact us if you have any questions. Our goal is to make your online car parts purchasing experience as straightforward and satisfactory as possible.
