RE:Experiences with IPC parts

[rob@lfs.loral.com]

I have used IPC for about 5 years and have not had any problmes. They
seem to be connected with some 3rd party importers. All parts I have ordered
from them have been packaged in boxes with mostly German writing. They are
not necessarily "genuine Audi" parts; however, they aren't J.C. Whitney
either. I got the impression that if I lived in Europe and did not want to
pay outrageous dealer prices there (if they operate in the same manner as
they do here...) then IPC's parts are what I would find if I went to a
reputable auto parts store. I have never had a problem with what was
supposed to be a correct part just not fitting or working correctly.

Every time I have called IPC I have talked to Rod. He is always professional
and very knowledgable about the parts. On the rare occasion that
I ordered or received the wrong part, he was very willing to do whatever
it took to fix the situation. Also, if a part is on backorder to IPC,
Rod has always given accurate info as to the delay exptected. He will even
advise that I should try to find it elsewhere if he thinks the wait is
going to be too long. I have never felt like he just wanted to get my
credit card number and worry about shipping the parts whenever they get in.

By the way - IPC's catalog is well worth the price as a reference manual.
IPC uses the same 3 by 3 part numbering scheme that Audi uses, so it can
be helpful when calling Linda @ Carlsen to already have the PN when
shopping around for the best price. IPC's catalog also contains a wealth
of interchange/applicability info for variuos modles that I have often
referenced. YMMV though, depending on how much you tinker with your car.

IPC will dicker around with price on big ticket items. Usually their catalog
is enough out of date that the price will be slightly higher when quoted over
the phone. But if you are willing to haggle they will usually come off some.

I have an 84 5000S. I have noticed that IPC tends to cater to the older 
Audi's. I don't know if they carry many parts for the current lines.

And of course, I have no financial interest in IPC - just a many-time
satisfied customer.

Robert Patrick
Loral Federal Systems - Manassas