A few questions:
1) Why cant a regular Honda dealer order bike parts? Specific license/agreement? Additional cost?
2) I called two different Honda dealerships on two different occasions and both required the order to be placed in person. I've never heard of a dealer not taking an order over the phone.
At this point, I would rather order online.........
Hey guys I work at Fairview Acura in Kitchener in the Parts Dept. and i just wanted to shed some light on this question.
1. As a division of honda we can order honda parts that cross over to our platforms. For example
Pilot/MDX
Civic/EL/CSX
However we can order other parts that do not cross over or even fit on Acura Vehicles but its completely random. This also is the case for Honda power sports equipment. For example i can order the left mirror for a CBR but not the right.
This comes down to honda's error in setting up the restriction for part orders. As there are so many parts available some errors are inevitable. Those restriction are set depending on the dealer type. Normal car Dealers are set up different then Power Sport Dealers. I have a 09 CBR 600RR abs and i have found i can order the majority of common items (levers, lights, pegs, rear sets, nuts, bolts, tires etc.) All fluids (oil, coolant, chain lube, cleaners) Filters (oil, air). However most painted fenders/fairings and large items (engines, exhausts) i cannot. So it really is hit or miss, all i can do is check the part numbers.
This gets fustraiting when we service Honda vehicles and need parts that do not cross over to the Acura Side. This is honda's way of keeping the dealerships equal in business and staying with what there license is for. If a large amount of parts are ordered that do not match the dealers licensing Honda Canada calls and inquires about the order.
2. It is the dealers choice to allow special orders over the phone. Our dealership does, usually with pre-payment of the item. This regards to people not coming for there items and the dealer being stuck with an item they can not sell nor sometimes return to Honda Canada.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Cheers,
Jeremy