2025 Update: Private Label Parts

Private Label Auto Parts Are Gaining Ground

In the last two years, auto repair shops across the country have shifted heavily toward private label auto parts. Nearly 9 out of 10 shops say their purchases of store brand parts have increased. Looking forward, the trend shows no signs of slowing down — with 95% of shops planning to use even more private label parts in the next year.

This signals a clear shift in the market: private label parts are no longer viewed as second tier. Instead, they are becoming a mainstream choice for professional repair shops.

Why Auto Repair Shops Choose Private Label Parts

The biggest advantage is cost savings. Almost 92% of repair shops say private label parts are simply more affordable than national brand parts, making them an attractive option for both shop owners and their customers.

Other key reasons include:

Inflation pressures (64%) drive the need for budget-friendly solutions.

Better availability (73%), a critical factor when parts shortages or delays occur.

Comparable quality (34%) to national brands.

Fewer comebacks (52%), which saves time and builds customer trust.

For larger auto repair shops, reliability plays a bigger role in the decision to buy private label auto parts.

Transparency: Do Shops Know Who Makes Store Brand Parts?

One surprising finding: only 58% of repair shops said they typically know the actual manufacturer behind private label parts. That leaves more than 40% in the dark about where their parts come from, showing a clear lack of transparency in the private label market.

Why National Brand Parts Still Matter

Despite the growing popularity of private labels, national brand auto parts still have an important place in repair shops. Here’s why shops continue to buy them:

Trusted brand reputation (70%) gives peace of mind to both mechanics and customers.

Consistent availability (76%) ensures shops can keep jobs moving without delays.

Fewer comebacks and reliability issues (55%) help maintain customer satisfaction.

Better warranty and support (24%) provide extra security.

Interestingly, very few shops say higher perceived quality (3%) is the reason they choose national brand parts, highlighting that reputation and reliability are the true differentiators.

The Future of Auto Repair Parts Purchasing

The message is clear: private label auto parts are on the rise, driven by affordability and availability. National brands remain relevant, but primarily for their reputation and reliability.

As inflation continues and customers demand cost-effective repairs, private label parts are positioned to become an even more dominant choice for auto repair shops in the years ahead.