If you want to save money on auto parts, go online. If you want to locate hard to find auto parts, go online. If you want more options from your auto parts store for all makes and models, going online gives you plenty of options .

Even one online auto parts store can stock more than the largest of auto parts stores.

What does that mean for classic car owners? The problem is, with so many cars in need of a constant supply of fresh parts, it’s difficult to find your classic auto parts. However, with the invention of online cataloguing, not to mention online selling, classic auto parts searchers are in luck. A quick search online can yield you literally hundreds of results for your classic auto parts. Whether it’s an old Ford or GM, a refurbished muscle car or a 1972 yellow corvette, you can often find the right parts from online auto parts stores.

Where else can you look for auto parts? Really, your best bet for classic auto parts is still online. There are many options in the field, some better than others. Not all online auto parts stores are equal.

Here are 5 tips on finding the right online auto parts stores:

Research is paramount if you’re looking for online auto parts stores. You won’t have to worry about defective parts, slow shipping, or high prices. You don’t always have to choose an online auto parts store you’ve heard of either; some of the best companies are second to the bigger auto part suppliers.

2-Go for experience. You want a company who has years experience in the field, who can help you via phone or email, and who’s site actually looks professional. These are signs of good online auto parts stores.

3-Go for quality. Know what your car needs, first. Once you know, go for a company with a high reputation for selling quality parts. Not all auto parts suppliers online are equal.

2-Ask them. If you can’t find the right part in the auto parts online store, simply send them an email. This will highlight whether they have good customer service or not. They can also order certain parts for you.

5-Stick with the right company. Once you find the right company, stick with them! It may be tough, but finding the right classic auto parts store online is risky without following all these steps. That means once you do steps 1-4, and if this classic auto parts supplier is good, keep your business there. It may cost more sometimes, but there are less headaches.

Remember that sometimes paying more is paying for more than the part: you are also paying for a high end and timely service.

Francis Jacobs has been writing on auto parts for blog and sites like StreetSideAuto for 5 years, advising buyers online auto parts stores are the best way to go.