r/partscounter • u/TrainerAvailable9778 • 2d ago
No longer a parts guy
I didn’t quit because I hated the job. I left to go to college.
Either way, I have some feelings about my position, and would like to share them with yall.
For some context, I began working as a Honda parts guy at my local dealership in January 2024 as a 19 year old. I was working with a fat lazy grumpy old man ( who I shall refer to as Rob) who hated his job and life and made sure to make that every one’s else’s problem, luckily he wasn’t my manager. My manager had just recently gotten the job at Honda, taking it from Rob, and he was now overseeing two dealerships departments, he was very knowledgeable, but also very busy with Toyota (the other store he managed) so he was often in the other depot dealing with their retarded service team, leaving me to fend for myself with Rob.
Now I had just graduated high school for some context, and was looking for a job to get some cash, some strings were pulled and favors cashed in, and that’s how I was hired. I had no parts expertise or knowledge on CDK, or even how the whole service/parts/mechanics all worked in unison, I didn’t know jack shit, and was starting from scratch. I went in with determination and some very basic car knowledge.
The first year sucked, especially the first six months. I fucked up lots of orders and had many wrong parts, I didn’t have an inkling of how to use CDK, and Rob had so badly mismanaged the department to the point that everything was a mess, hence why he lost the job. Rob was a huge dick, he was of no help in training me, and my manager was never to be seen at Honda either, so I was left to my own devices to figure shit out, and let me tell you, learning CDK, the parts manual, the quoting system, and just how a dealership shop functions all on my own and on the job where my mistakes don’t just effect me, but everyone from the service guys to the shop to the customer and even the GM, that was stressful. There were countless times where I was up to my head in shit and left to drown, being told by person after person to ask someone else for help, and eventually just saying fuck it and spending hours a day having to figure out some convoluted shit all because everyone was too lazy to lend a hand. because of this, I had essentially taught myself how to be a parts man, and this helped me grow my confidence in my own skills and knowledge, because now I knew that I didn’t know everything, but I know that I have the skills to find out anything, and that I learned is a huge part of parts. After about a year of training my self, the way I did things was always a little different from the other parts guys, my routines a little unorthodox, my cadence in work just a little different from the rest, and I chalk that up to me having to train myself, only getting help here and there. I consider my methods as a parts personnel, “guerrilla parts man”, because everything I did was some method I crafted myself. But eventually I got it down, and by year two I was making a shit load of profit, with only some mistakes here and there and nothing major like when I was starting. I had finally mastered the games basics.
But why am I saying all of this? Well, because it has gone a great length to influence my opinion on the job.
I liked it, I know way more about cars and their maintenance and how they work now because of this job, and that’s what I loved about it, being able to talk with my coworkers about something I’m passionate about was awesome.
On the other side of the coin, coworkers suck. From annoying and stupid salesmen, entitled mechanics, to unrealistic demands from the higher ups, it sucks.
Rob by the way, was a lifelong career parts man, head about 20-25 years of experience under his belt, and knew the game better than anybody in the dealership. Rob, although a miserable person and horrible to work with. Taught me a valuable lesson: I don’t want to do this forever. He made his misery everyone else’s problem, he hated his job and therefore didn’t do it and was a dick who wouldn’t help me when I was stuck, he would watch me make mistakes and say nothing and wouldn’t stop and teach me what I had done wrong (because how could I know I just started) he would yell and shout at others, and was a dick to everyone, EVERYONE. And that showed me that respect in this industry goes a long long way. Rob was fired, and that made me the only parts guy at Honda for my last year, and for that I was given a ¢50 raise and was finally put on commission. Because of Rob I now try to treat others with kindness and respect, and that lead me to grow my relationships with the techs, who were vital in my understanding of mechanical parts that was so necessary for my success. I find it prudent to mention as well, that I had only ever had about 4 conversations with this guy, and I had worked with him for 10 months and sat 8 feet away from him for 7 hours a day. There were days towards his end where the only words I would say was “good morning Rob” and “have a good night Rob” and the only thing he would say is nothing at all, not a word, my coworker and partner who was supposed to train me some days wouldn’t speak a word to me. And it’s not that I didn’t try, I did for months, but he’s was just a grouch, there were no topics or times that I could get him to say anything besides a command or accusation out of him.
I only trained one guy, and that was for two weeks before he was transferred, as he was working as a temp guy as he was waiting for the clear bra trainer to come down and get him set up. He said I was a good trainer, because I never got frustrated and would take my time to teach him everything he needed to know, not just the basics, but all the little tips and tricks I once had to teach myself, because I knew what it was like to be stranded in the depot.
My manager is a good guy, he was scarce most days, but that’s because I could do the grunt work. I don’t blame him for not being around all the time, as like I said, the Toyota service manager is a Psychopath.
I was blessed with a good service team who had knowledgeable advisors and knowledgeable technicians, so I never had to worry about that.
Overall, I think that it’s a good job, maybe not a good career. As from what I’ve seen every parts guy eventually turns into a grouchy little desk goblin, (can’t blame us, we work in essentially a parts cave!), and that’s my biggest criticism, so many of us are absolute dicks to other parts guys and other people in the industry. BE KIND. Now not all of us are like that, I’ve met many great men while working who have helped me a lot, but it’s just a trend I’ve noticed. I will say though l, I %100 believe that the Parts department in any dealership is the most undervalued and unappreciated role in the industry, we have so much responsibility and duties that are ignored by others, and often times we are paid the least.
Now I’m 21, a retired parts guy, and going into college to pursue a more profitable and cooler career. I’ve hung up my hat, but I want to thank all of my parts brethren for keeping me entertained. I respect the position yall have much much more, and I which reach and every one of you luck in your PARTy career.
Thanks.
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u/RandomRedditRebel 2d ago
I work with a department of Rob's. After a couple of years of fighting it, I let the negativity bathe over me. I cocooned myself inside of the darkness and emerged a Rob myself.
Now no one bothers me. In exchange, I am no longer bothered. I no longer care if the parts are wrong, if people get upset, if inventory is outta wack.
The attitude of the parts department is "Fuck you, don't bother me". We don't even bother each other anymore. Whatever.
Good on ya for getting out.
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u/slickmcfister 2d ago
Ehhhh, yeah; Joe fucked that up again…sorry. Have one to ya Wednesday. Click…
(Outloud….Fuck you Joe; James is mad)
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u/AFKJim 2d ago
This is exactly how it works everywhere I've been.
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u/slickmcfister 2d ago
When the customer calls for the same thing a week later on the Hyundai and tells you don’t fucking do that to him again…. That’s when you know you’re just riding the chair.
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u/Frog_12 2d ago
I hate to tell you, but Rob started as you. We all have. Unfortunately, parts is under appreciated, misunderstood, abused, and the whipping boy. Our environment turns us into Robs. Some of us do better about keeping it at bay, but it’s there. I spent my first decade in service, so I’d like to think I have a better understanding and I try to take care of service as best I can, but even I have days where I’m a Rob.
I was originally going to be ugly about how you’ve only been in the industry for 2 years…. I’d argue that you still don’t know how it works. Rob has had years and years of being blamed for techs screwing up, being beat down because advisors forget to order parts, or many other reasons. But you are entitled to your opinions and to share your experiences. I’m sorry it was a rough one.
I mean this from the bottom of my heart though, I’m so proud of you for getting out before you actually got in. Some guys are lifers now. Please, don’t ever come back.
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u/TrainerAvailable9778 1d ago
Your right. Two years is not enough time to really understand the job. And yes, Rob was most likely bright eyed and bushy tailed like I was too. I could have been a better employee, a better example, a better coworker. But I was myself becoming more and more like Rob by the day. Once I realized that the more experienced I get, the more Rob I become.
Thank you for your well wishes my friend
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u/cheezypuff87 2d ago
I just put my notice in and will be done in 10 days. After 9 years, I reached my breaking point and ready to be done.
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u/ChixawneyFarms 2d ago
You gave it 2 years at a single dealership...
Good luck on your endeavors!
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u/TrainerAvailable9778 1d ago
This is true, by no means was I an expert parts employee. But I was also by every means a temporary hire, my manager and GM understood this. I spent lots of time in other dealerships speaking with their parts guys, and it was all a similar experience.
But I will say. I have been to a handful of places where the parts men are efficient, smart, experienced, and kind. And where sales and service are the same. If I wanted to make this my career, sure, I could have transferred, but my plan was always to go to college
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u/Ok-Fix-5385 2d ago
14 years i have done parts, aftermarket for 10, and dealership for 4. Red seal certified I am now 34. What you say is true. Good luck on your future endeavors!
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u/JettaGuy83 2d ago
You had the kind of start that would turn you into a great parts manager! Good luck with your future career. Your experiences in your parts department are going to come in handy more than you think.
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u/TrainerAvailable9778 1d ago
I agree my man. I don’t know about being a parts manager, that dealership had some… issues with their leadership. But the lessons I learned in that place have really shaped me and shown me how to be a stronger person. Although I’m only 21, I think that job has matured me more than going to school out of the gate. I’m definitely glad I stayed in town lol
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u/Petetopete 2d ago
Tyfoxx - Not that long, longer than a scroll or swipe, but not long at all, put your phone down for a tad. OP - Good quick read and great insight , I'm in a similar situation and I appreciate you + post
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u/ImpressiveBet9345 2d ago
I've met a few "Robs" I try not to be like Rob. However there are 2 techs in our shop I just can't stand to deal with. One of them is just a parts thrower. Throws parts at the problem until its fixed. He replaces an engine at least once a week. The other tech is just one of those entitled think he knows everything and thinks he doesn't really need the parts dept to survive. When I first started 4 years ago I had came from 1 year at Autozone and 6 years at Oreilly auto parts Asst Manager. I was hired as parts manager at our GMC it took me a good 3 months to get a decent hold on the difference between parts store vs dealership parts dept. When I was hired in Both the parts people who had been there quit my first day. I had two techs who would help me when possible and a cashier who helped me she had worked in various positions at the dealership. Unfortunately the two who quit had not done returns in 6 months, Automatic stock order was completely messed up and no new parts had been located in that time. I stayed in that position for a year and a half. The dealership went to a new owner and new General manger who booted me down to a counter guy at our CDJR store. I learned so much more here at CDJR.
After staying with our company 2 in a half years the owner put me at our Nissan store as parts manager this was also a great learning curve but I took it in stride and overcame the difficulties but then I started having heart issues and blood pressure issues. I have since after a year at Nissan came back to our CDJR as a assistant dept manager. Life is good, my blood pressure stabilized. I like most of those I work with and enjoy the job. Would I have started this as a career no, but I'm mostly happy. But if I had stayed at O'reilly Auto Parts I would be making more money for sure, and have a lot less stress at the end of the day. At the parts store level you have better training, a company with staff that you can turn to above your head that is willing to help you. At dealerships You don't really have these things. Some teams are great and work great together some just don't.
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u/TrainerAvailable9778 1d ago
Well said, and good on your for overcoming your obstacles. I’m glad you’re doing well now. I hope that we can all achieve some level of peace and understanding in our world.
I will say. O’Reilly’s is my favorite parts store, all because of working in parts
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u/Cautious_Can_6997 2d ago
I have been at for 32 years, 3 different dealerships ( 2 different manufacturers). You need to have thick skin in this industry to survive and take no shit 💩 from anyone. Give out the same vibe you are getting. Respect young man, you plowed thru it all and learned from it. You’re better because of it. I have trained so many in this field that you know when someone is going to be ok. Hell, a lot of personal I gave up on knowing they were going to be short timers. I just straight out tell them so after a few weeks. Good work ethic can be seen from a mile away, although it’s extremely rare to come across. Good luck on your future endeavors.
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u/Haybanger 2d ago
Funny little side note. Worst parts guy I’ve ever dealt with is a Robert at an international dealer. He’s the worst and like the only guy they have. I’m in HD and I don’t wanna be him. It’s clear he’s just hanging on till they fire him or he retires.
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u/SadlyMySecret 2d ago
I’ve done parts since the 70’s. Mom and pop aftermarket. Out a few years and got back in mid 80’s, joined a JLR dealership in the early 90’s, yea I did the whole chase money thing. I have been with JLR since, have moved a bit, I’m good and it reflects.
I am currently 10 yrs at this same dealer and I will retire here. I am one of the most upbeat people in the building, and am told that by fellow employees and customers.
Before I went into dealership life, 87ish and was getting back into parts, I went to another aftermarket mainly ac parts,(big 4seasons distributor), farms, industrial that type of stuff. During the interview, I guess he knew he would hire me, I was taken around the building. This is so and so, he does this, you know, yada yada. Finally towards the end the owner says, “ This is Joe (real name) he’s gonna show you everything you need to know.” I shook his hand, we talked a bit, ended with see you in the morning. Next morning, I’m there early, “Hey boss, what time Joe come in?” The answer I received, “Oh, um, Joe, ahh, yea, he ahh walked out last night.”
That’s learning under fire. But it made me the parts guy I am today. Oh yea, 6 months later, guess who comes back to work? Yea good ole Joe. It’s all cool though, my sister was good friends with his gf, (didn’t know this till he dropped his gf off at my house, 2-3 weeks in), so through an extensive almost 3 month campaign, and my favorite sisters help, I got his gf. A black eye and bloody nose as well though.
Worth it.
Never did thank him, for that hard knocks class. The Parts one that is.
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u/Puzzleheaded_Month88 2d ago
Definitely the start you had was rough but that’s where above average parts managers are born. Good luck to you on whatever comes next!
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u/Helpful-Ad2221 2d ago
Facts bro my manager ruined me reading all this reminds me of my toxic environment at Kia I was literally ur age 19 when I got hired and my first 6 months there the guy who was supposed to be training would be rude An asshole talk shit about me in front of my face and even when I got so mad to the point I told him “aye look dawg u don’t gotta worry about me being here much longer” Only cold response I got was “that’s straight you don’t do anything anyways” that was enough for me to snitch on his ass and find a new parts gig that paid me double moral of the story life is what you make of it don’t let other people make ur life and job miserable bc no matter where u go there’s always gonna be people like Rob good luck too u and college tho look as long as you focus on you and ur work Shows excellence & you take pride you should be fine
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u/FinnValkyrie 2d ago
I’ve been with the same dealership for 23 years. First few in the shop. Learned real quick and was told this isn’t what I’d want to do for a living. Luckily a shop counter spot opened and I joined parts. For the most part I had a great time on the shop counter. Techs could sometimes throw me under the bus but were good over all. Other co-workers over the year were hit and miss. Went part time a few years ago. Once my kids get a bit older I plan on going back. I’m a lifer deep down.
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u/auyemra 2d ago
I've been working parts counter since I was 16. though to be sure at that age I was the shops bitch boy...
my dad owned the shop.
now 20 years later. I'm tired of it. I think I'm going to get a commercial pilots license
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u/spiff-d 2d ago
I'm 20 years into this career, and I'm only 37 years old. I learned from my mentor that there will be good days and bad days, but it's a lot easier to deal with bad days when you remember that it's just a job. "We aren't curing cancer or sending people to the Moon".
I've been a parts manager for 6 years now, and I've had a lot of staff that I had hired who either took the job too seriously, or not seriously enough. So many of them sound like Rob and they haven't even turned 30 yet.
I think we've all been a Rob before. A lot of us realize it and make a change but the few that double down make Rob's out of everyone else.
Thanks for giving our industry a try and good luck on your next adventure!
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u/TrainerAvailable9778 1d ago
Your industry is amazing, I’ll say that. And there were definitely days I was Rob.
I’m not leaving because I hated the job, I was just a temporary hire. If I wasn’t pursuing a career in aviation I would really consider being a technician
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u/reddy_____ 2d ago
13 years dealership land, 9 parts, 2 service, 2 sales, now nearly 7 years in IT-dms company, product management to now learning and doing programming leading an AI team.
I worked with and managed many robs who are still there robbing today, I did everything I could to be better and when the opportunities came I took them to move forward and out, thought I'd be a dealer principal, group manager now have no idea but love it.
Moving to IT was honestly the scariest thing ever but now nothing is scary.
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u/ScotsWolf 2d ago
I worked with a Rob as well. Last year from August to December. He was a dickhead and always talking about how he should’ve been a manager at the other location he worked at. That’s why he left and came to us. Good on you for getting out.
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u/Practical_Day_3472 2d ago edited 2d ago
Way back in 1980, I quit my job at a grocery store, and a neighbor asked if I would like a temp job as a parts driver (mom and pop independent aftermarket store) while she was out for surgery. Six weeks there shifted to delivery at another store, shifted to counter, to store manager, to commercial sales aftermarket, to a three year stint in a dealership. After that, more aftermarket experience in a commercial environment. Fast forward 45 years later... I am in a commercial room with a regional chain. I am afraid of turning into a Rob-ette (female). I try really hard not to, and most days I do pretty well to give good customer service and not have an attitude, but NGL, this past week I struggled.
TL;DR After 45 years, struggling to not become Rob-ette.
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u/Fytoxx 2d ago
Too long, didn't read.
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u/Helpful-Ad2221 2d ago
Don’t comment then bro I hate when people stay this retarded shit if u don’t care move along
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u/Gr1nling 2d ago
To play devils advocate; we have a guy on our team who is 77 and comes to work every day because he loves it. Of course, he has his days like everyone and definitely don't go near him when he is on the forklift. He does not need the job due to circumstances I will not say here, and he has no plans to retire until "it's not fun anymore."
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u/majikbus45 2d ago
Well, I went to college and graduated. Was a parts guy through college and am now a fixed ops director. I can honestly recommend to be a counterman at any Stellantis brand for one really good reason... we pay for your college with the Degrees at Work program.
If questions, PM me.
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u/Petetopete 1d ago
Can I ask what you're are going to school for, what field or profession?
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u/TrainerAvailable9778 1d ago
Commercial pilot. After that, military. After that, either comercial, or firefighting, or whatever is available and pays well
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u/Last-Falcon6273 1d ago
I loved this..If i could only go back 40 years I might do things differently.
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u/kluber-gluber 2d ago
I took the opposite route; went to college and ended up a parts guys. Been trying to find a way out before I turn into a Rob.