If you need some repairs carrying out to your vehicle then you may want to price up the cost of obtaining the parts yourself. You do not have to be an expert in car repairs to be able to source parts but you do need to do your research and ensure you know exactly what part you need and to what specification.
Car parts can be expensive especially if you get them from the main dealer when often non-genuine parts (that you may buy online) will do the job just as well. You can choose to buy car parts second hand but there is an element of risk if buying something that you cannot see working. You may think it looks ok, but find that it only lasts a matter of weeks before it needs changing again. You also need to know exactly what you are looking for as many garages will not advise you on parts when buying from a third party.
Once you have a few quotes go back to the garage carrying out the repairs and ask them if they would be willing for you to buy the part yourself. Lots of smaller independent garages will do this but will not put any kind of warranty on the part they have fitted for you.