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Auto Parts for Delivery or Pickup
The Instacart buying guide to auto parts
Modern cars are complex machines with lots of parts. Some of those parts only need replacement if there's an accident, and others will wear out over time. Here are some of the auto parts that people need to replace most often, along with answers to frequently asked questions about car parts.
Tires
You should replace most tires when the tread reaches 4/32 of an inch. You can check the tread easily with a penny. If the rubber reaches the top of Lincoln's head, you can continue driving on it. However, you should promptly replace worn tires through Instacart to make sure you can get good traction and avoid hydroplaning in wet conditions. Also, replace your tires at least every 6 years, even if you don't drive much. This keeps the rubber from cracking and drying over time.
The tire type and size are on the sidewall. For example, the P in P215/60R16 means passenger car tire, and 215 is the tire width in millimeters. The aspect ratio, or the relationship between the tire's width and height, is 60. This means that the height is 60% of the width. R stands for radial tire, and the diameter of the rim is 16in.
Brake pads
Your vehicle's brake pads could last anywhere from 25,000-65,000mi. Check your vehicle's owner's manual for more specific information. When most brake pads become worn, they make a squealing or screeching noise when you use the brakes. If you don't replace your brakes when you notice that noise, they could stop functioning safely. You could need to replace your brakes' rotors as well as the brake pads. People who drive in urban areas or down steep hills and use their brakes often will need to replace them sooner. With many vehicles, you can look through the hubcaps and inspect the brake pads.
Car batteries
While some car batteries last longer, most start becoming worn out after 3 years of regular use. You can keep yours working for as long as possible by driving your car at least every week or two. That way, the onboard computer system won't drain the battery and keep your vehicle from starting.
If your battery is close to the end of its life, your headlights may look dim right after you start the car. They'll become brighter when you press the accelerator. If your battery fails completely, your car won't start. Fortunately, you can replace your car battery through Instacart.Â
Auto Parts Near Me
Buy your favorite Auto Parts online with Instacart. Order Car Batteries, Oil Filters, and more from local and national retailers near you and enjoy on-demand, contactless delivery or pickup within 2 hours.
FAQs about auto parts
The engines in modern cars can last for more than 200,000mi. Heavy-duty trucks usually don't have life spans as long as cars. Going up steep hills often could shorten your vehicle's life as well. However, repairing is usually much less costly than buying a new vehicle. Your vehicle's gas mileage will go down over time, but regular maintenance can keep it as high as possible. Your mileage will also decrease when you tow a trailer or use the heating or air conditioning.
Hybrids and plug-in hybrids have batteries and electric motors, along with gas engines. You can charge a plug-in hybrid and use only electrical power for a limited distance. With a regular hybrid, braking or coasting charges the battery and increases efficiency. Hybrids are more costly, but they don't need as much fuel as standard gasoline vehicles.
Hybrid and electric vehicles are much quieter than conventional autos, and they have great acceleration as well. Some electric cars have front and rear trunks because they don't need the same engine space as a conventional car. Charging a car is also less costly than paying for gasoline.
To keep your ride in great condition for a long time, check all fluid levels whenever you change the oil and use fuel injector cleaner at least once per year. This chemical removes carbon deposits that build up inside your engine over time, increasing your fuel efficiency.
Fuel injector cleaner via Instacart can also help your engine run more smoothly and increase throttle responsiveness. It's inexpensive and easy to use. Just pour it into your tank when it's almost empty, and then fill the tank the rest of the way with fuel. Before you buy fuel injector cleaner, check your tank's capacity and make sure you purchase the right size.
(OEM) stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, and a car manufacturer makes OEM parts. They're usually more expensive than aftermarket parts, but they're made for a specific model, and they often last longer. Many quality aftermarket parts are available as well, and you can use them to replace components like windshield wipers and oil filters that fit on many different vehicles.
You should also check your tire pressure regularly and change your engine air filter at least once per year. If there's a chip on your windshield, have it repaired immediately. Otherwise, it could spread, forcing you to replace the entire windshield. Follow the schedule in your owner's manual to ensure you don't miss any maintenance and keep your car's interior and exterior clean.
You can remove any dirt or rust with some scrubbing and keep your vehicle looking like new for years. If you notice unusual sounds, vibrations, sluggish or unresponsive handling, or any other problems, inspect your vehicle or have it looked at by a professional. You likely need to repair or replace one of your auto parts.
With Instacart, you can save time and money. Just place an order through the Instacart app. You can get the auto parts you need in as little as 2 hours. Our Instacart shoppers will do their best to make sure you're satisfied, and you can choose from a variety of quality products.