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Buying parts for an airplane or a car isn’t like picking up a snack at the corner store — it’s a decision that affects safety, performance, and your wallet. You want the right fit, the right spec, and the right documentation. That’s why picking a reputable supplier matters whether you’re replacing a brake pad on a truck or sourcing an avionics module for a small aircraft. Think of it like choosing a mechanic: the store you trust can either make repairs smooth or turn a simple job into a headache.
In this article I’ll walk you through top US stores for aircraft and vehicle parts, explain what to look for when buying online, and share practical tips for comparing suppliers. If you’re a pilot, a homebuilder, a DIY car enthusiast, or a pro mechanic, you’ll find clear steps to source parts safely and affordably. Ready? Let’s get practical.
Aircraft parts are a niche market with special rules and higher stakes. The suppliers below are commonly used in the US by owners, repair shops, and flight schools — each one offers different strengths like wide inventories, specialty tools, or FAA-related documentation. Always cross-check critical items with a certified A&P mechanic before installation.
Aircraft Spruce is one of the most recognizable names for general aviation parts, tools, and supplies. From structural hardware measured in inches to fabric repair kits and engine components, it’s often the first stop for homebuilders and maintenance shops. They offer published catalogs and a broad online inventory, so you can search by part number or aircraft model and compare options quickly.
McFarlane Aviation is popular for avionics, wheels & brakes, and hard-to-find airframe parts. If you need a replacement wheel or specialized instrument, vendors like McFarlane are worth checking — they often carry both OEM and aftermarket alternatives. Remember: avionics and critical systems should be installed and logged by a certified technician.
SkyGeek focuses on pilot supplies, avionics accessories, and small replacement parts. It’s a practical option for ancillary gear — things like headsets, wiring connectors, and panel hardware. For larger components or FAA-approved parts, pair these suppliers with a parts distributor that provides full traceability and documentation.
For larger commercial or turbine-related needs, official OEM distribution channels like Boeing Distribution or OEM-authorized suppliers provide factory-level parts and documentation. These suppliers are typically used by repair stations and commercial operators and often handle parts that require specific serial-number traceability or return-to-service paperwork.
Whether you work on daily drivers, performance builds, or heavy-duty trucks, the US market has a broad mix of national chains, specialty retailers, and online catalogs. Below are widely used options that cover everything from basic maintenance to high-performance upgrades.
RockAuto is an online-only catalog that lists parts from many manufacturers, organized by vehicle make, model, and year. It’s a favorite for DIYers because of deep inventories and competitive pricing on everything from filters to driveline components. Use your vehicle’s VIN or model-year detail to ensure proper fitment.
NAPA combines a nationwide network of stores with a large online inventory. If you prefer to pick up parts locally — or want to cross-check an online order with in-store availability — NAPA’s network can be a practical bridge between the web and the garage. They also supply pro-only channels for heavy-duty and fleet maintenance.
AutoZone and O’Reilly are ubiquitous stores for quick parts like brake pads, batteries, filters, and sensors. Both have strong mobile apps for checking fitment and local stock, plus helpful tools like battery testers and diagnostic scanners at select locations. For emergency roadside fixes or weekend projects, they’re often the fastest option.
If you’re into performance parts, Summit Racing is a go-to. They stock aftermarket performance components, driveline upgrades, suspension parts, and engines for street and racing applications. Expect to see brand options, multi-step fitment guidance, and support for performance builds measured in inches, inches-of-travel, or pounds of torque.
What’s the real difference between buying aircraft parts and car parts? The short answer: documentation and certification. Auto parts commonly focus on fitment and warranty. Aircraft parts demand traceability, sometimes serial-numbered certificates, and in many cases FAA-related approval. That means the same shopping habits don’t always translate — you need both caution and the right paperwork when it comes to aviation.
Shopping online or in-person? Here’s a checklist to keep you safe and smart: accuracy of fitment information, part-number clarity, clear images, warranty terms, buyer reviews, and the ability to verify the part’s origin. For aircraft parts, add documentation like FAA Form 8130-3, logbook traceability, or manufacturer release notes to that list.
A site with a deep catalog and smart search cuts hours off your hunt. Look for parts listed by OEM number, cross-reference numbers, and model-year compatibility. For example, if a brake rotor is listed in inches of diameter or a control cable in feet and inches, you’ll have the measurements you need to confirm fitment quickly.
Always ask for proof when the item affects flight safety. Certifications, release forms, and traceable serial numbers aren’t optional for aircraft parts — they’re part of responsible ownership. Even for critical auto systems like airbags or transmissions, documentation can clarify whether a part is remanufactured, rebuilt, or OEM-new.
Want to avoid a wrong part arriving two days before a trip? Use the vehicle VIN, engine serial number, or aircraft registration and part number. Cross-check the last five digits, confirm the service bulletin status, and consult your mechanic when in doubt. For major systems, insist on paperwork that shows the part’s chain of custody.
VINs for cars and serial numbers for aircraft components are your best friends. They help match the correct engine, transmission, or avionics item to your vehicle or airframe. Most major online retailers support VIN or serial search fields; if they don’t, you should be skeptical about ordering critical components.
Counterfeits are a reality in both markets. Signs include suspiciously low prices, poor packaging, missing trademarks, or a seller that can’t provide documentation. When an item is safety-critical, choose suppliers with clear return paths, certification verification, and strong buyer feedback.
Everyone likes a bargain, but with parts you don’t want to skimp on safety. Here are smart savings strategies that keep quality front-and-center and your bank account happy.
Check multiple stores — online and brick-and-mortar — for the best deal. For example, a filter might be cheaper at an online-only seller, while a heavy component like a wheel hub could be cheaper locally once shipping in pounds and packaging is factored in. Use comparison sites and seller reviews to find trustworthy bargains.
Not all parts need to be brand-new. Remanufactured transmissions or rebuilt alternators can save hundreds of dollars, but confirm the remanufacturer’s warranty and test procedures. For aircraft, many used components are acceptable if they come with proper release paperwork and a documented maintenance history.
Some jobs are fun and safe to do in your driveway, while others require a certified technician. Brake pads, filters, and bulbs are often DIY-friendly. Anything involving structural repairs, flight controls, or critical engine work? That’s a professional job. When in doubt, ask a trusted mechanic or A&P — a short consultation can save you miles of regret.
Even a simple bolt can cause trouble if it’s over- or under-torqued. Always use the torque specifications in the service manual, and use proper tools. For aircraft and performance vehicle work, specialized tools and calibration gear measured in inch-pounds or foot-pounds are often required to meet safety standards.
Deals show up in many places: clearance sections, seasonal sales, trade events, and through comparison platforms that aggregate offers. Comparison sites can surface coupons and promo bundles across multiple sellers, making it easier to see who has the best price and the best documentation for a given part.
Timing your purchases can matter. Perform maintenance before the busy season — for cars that might mean before summer road trips; for aircraft, ahead of a flying season — when suppliers move slower and discounts are more common. If you run a shop, buying consumables in bulk can shrink per-unit costs dramatically, especially for fast-moving items measured in dozens or pounds.
Before you complete an order, run this quick checklist: confirm the exact part number, verify fitment with VIN or serial, check for required certifications (especially for aircraft items), review seller feedback, and confirm return options and warranty coverage. Simple steps up front can prevent long, costly delays later.
Sourcing parts for aircraft and vehicles in the US means balancing price, availability, and safety. From large retailers like NAPA and AutoZone to specialized aviation suppliers like Aircraft Spruce and McFarlane Aviation, you’ve got options — but not all options are equal. Use VINs and serial numbers, require documentation for critical components, compare across multiple sellers, and ask a certified mechanic for anything beyond basic maintenance. With the right approach, you’ll save money and keep your machine running safely for miles, flights, and years to come.
