Classic cars enthusiasts know very well the tough time entailed in obtaining the proper car parts for their gems. While the internet has made acquisition of classic parts easier, there are several loopholes and checks everyone should watch out for in order to save time, money, and even emotions—in the case where your car means the world to you. Unlike with the usual day-to-day car models, buying classic car parts online can translate to a wild treasure hunt. The following are some tips on how you can get ahead and land the ideal part at the right costs.

Be an expert

When buying classic car parts online, you should consider yourself the expert on what you specifically want. While some sellers are quite knowledgeable on the parts they are selling, many others are quite oblivious of the expert-knowledge specifics of the parts. Be the enthusiast and research thoroughly about the part you need. Ask for specific information such as casting numbers, part number, or even the history of the part. Remember, some parts are very specific to engine transmissions and combinations of use. The risk is even higher when you are buying classic car parts.

Buy Assemblies of parts if possible

When buying a part, ask for photos and try seeing if the part has several additional attachments already installed, as opposed to a stripped down part.The beauty in buying assemblies is that it can save you time and money that would have gone into finding and buying some of these attachments. For example, buying a heater control panel that comes with attached cables could save you a lot if you didn't have to go source for the cables elsewhere. If the photos made available don't clearly show what you want to see, always try to contact the seller and ask for more photos and other media that can help you visualise the part. 

Visit online forums

For vintage and classic car enthusiasts, the internet has created an advantageous environment where people can interact quickly and easily about their shared interest. This has also made it possible for people to know about and confirm credibility of sellers. Visit forums about your specific classic and you will learn about the parts, the anticipated problems, and much more information. You can even enquire within such forums over the appropriate prices of your part, or check reviews from other similar buyers. Such information can save you a lot of money and time.

Shipping costs, insurance, and combine shipping

Finally, always confirm about shipping costs and available insurance. Some parts may cost more to ship than the said price, while other shrewd sellers may charge you less for the part but recoup the balance on the charged shipping costs. You should also confirm whether the parts are sold "as is", or "returnable", and if so, how much will you be charged on return of the part? One good way to save money when shipping parts is to use combine shipping; if you are buying several products from a seller, find out if the seller can package all your parts together and ship them at one charge.