Automotive rubber and plastic parts make up a vast amount of the automobiles components and are necessary for a repair shop to have on-hand or within easy ordering. Plastic auto parts consist of mostly interior pieces. Automotive rubber is used for engine hoses, wire sheaths and seals. You need these on-hand for quick service, optimal business growth and to create a loyal customer following.

Automotive plastic and auto rubber parts are available from a variety of plastic automobile parts and rubber automotive parts manufacturers and suppliers. To find the plastic and rubber car parts you need, list the plastic and rubber parts to carry on-hand, find automotive rubber and plastic parts suppliers, confirm they are reputable companies, set up and order/delivery schedule and monitor inventory to maximize savings and orders.

1. Explore plastic automotive parts to offer your clients by surveying your employees, your suppliers and your clients.

2. Discover the rubber automotive parts you want to use through questions to your clients, your service crew and your suppliers.

3. Find reputable rubber and plastic automotive parts dealers that offer good customer service and the more comprehensive warranties.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Explore plastic automotive parts

Plastic automotive parts are used primarily for the interior pieces and installation clips. The interior pieces include dash, console, trim pieces and door handle inserts. Keep in mind most of the plastic automotive parts are made in China and Taiwan, so be prepared to pay for shipping and do your homework on the company.

I recommend: Plastic Parts, Inc. offers a supply of aftermarket and body shop plastic parts for both cars and motorcycles of all makes, models and years. Pontiac Parts specializes in rubber and plastic automotive parts for Pontiac's and other American made cars. All of their parts are made right here in the US.

Discover rubber automotive parts

Rubber is most often used for part that need to be resistant to high heat or that need to be more flexible than plastic can provide. This includes engine hoses, steering bellows, CV boots and other engine and mechanical components. Also, consider the interior of the vehicle, the seals around doors, windows and under the carpet is often made of rubber as well.

I recommend: Columbia Engineered Rubber Inc. has been in the rubber industry since the early 1970's. While, they offer a variety of custom rubber seals, bellows and other popular parts, they specialize in custom molded rubber. International Rubber Products, located in California, is a merging of three companies at the top of the rubber field and rubber technology. They offer a variety of products to over 10 different industries, including automotive.

Find reputable rubber and plastic automotive parts dealers

Check out automotive rubber and plastic parts manufacturers and suppliers on Hoovers or Manta to check on the reputability, life and practices of the companies you are most interested in. Also, look for a company with strong policies, a wide selection and one who is well established in their community or nationwide.

I recommend: Unimolding Rubber & Plastic Parts Co., Ltd. offers a large selection of both rubber and plastic automotive parts, including CV boots, bushings, mountings, seals, grommets and steering bellows. Allstates Rubber & Tool Corp. specializes in all things rubber and small, including grommets, seals, O-rings and motor mounts.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When dealing with rubber and plastic car parts make sure they are lubricated before installation and check often for cracking or excessive wear.