1 Stop Auto Shop

Everything your car needs, in one stop

Plain-English guides to buying parts and tires, getting fair repairs and choosing accessories, plus the shops we would use ourselves.

Cars on lifts in a bright auto repair workshop
Photo: Renee Razumov / Pexels

Shop by what you need

Buying auto partsOEM vs aftermarket, getting the right fit, cores and returnsTires and wheelsRead a tire size, pick the right type and buy for lessRepair and serviceFind an honest shop, read estimates and know your warranty rightsCar accessoriesDash cams, code readers, detailing and an emergency kit

Five rules that save money on any car job

  1. Know your car exactly. Year, make, model, engine and trim, or better, the 17-character VIN. Most wrong-part orders come from guessing.
  2. Read the code before you pay for a diagnosis. When the check engine light comes on, an inexpensive OBD2 code reader tells you where to start. Accessories guide
  3. Get it in writing. A written estimate, with parts and labor listed separately, protects you from surprise bills. Repair guide
  4. Compare the total, not the sticker. For tires that means mounting, balancing and fees. For parts it means shipping and core charges.
  5. Keep every receipt. It proves maintenance for warranty claims and adds value when you sell.

Where we shop

Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy or book through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. How we make money.

PartsGeek

Replacement parts for most makes and models, from brakes and filters to sensors and suspension.

Find parts →

Tire Rack

Big tire and wheel selection with owner reviews and test results. Ships to your door or to a local installer.

Shop tires & wheels →

Rexing

Dash cams and car electronics, including front-and-rear and 4K dash cams.

Shop dash cams →

Car fixed? Time for a road trip.

1 Stop Auto Shop is part of a family of travel and driving sites. Cut your fuel bill with Gas Saving Tips, compare rental cars on USA Auto Rental, then find a cheap room on Rooms Cheap and things to do on 101 Things to Do in the USA.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the VIN on my car?

Usually on a plate at the base of the windshield on the driver's side (visible from outside), on a sticker in the driver's door jamb, and on your registration and insurance card.

Is it cheaper to buy my own parts and have a shop install them?

Sometimes, but many shops will not warranty labor on customer-supplied parts, and some will not install them at all. Ask first, and compare against the shop's total price including its parts warranty.

Will using an independent shop void my new-car warranty?

No. Under federal law, a manufacturer cannot void your warranty just because you had maintenance done somewhere other than the dealer or used aftermarket parts. Keep your receipts. See our repair guide.