If you’ve ever had the joy of waiting on a part that never shows up, or arrives in pieces, you might know the feeling. One mechanic in New York is officially losing his patience. And honestly, who could blame him? One shop recently experienced the kind of chaos that makes you question why you even bother calling a “reliable” parts store.
It all started with a customer’s car sitting idle for over a week. Payment already in, and a promise from AutoZone that the part would arrive on time. Fast forward to delivery day. Instead of a single, pristine package, the mechanic was greeted by two boxes, both mangled andcontaining a completely cracked alternator for a Hyundai.
The clip of the unboxing went viral on TikTok, capturing the busy shop in the background and the mechanic’s escalating frustration. His sarcastic commentary highlights the missed delivery promise and the broken product, and was nothing short of legendary.
“Cheaper parts, lower quality, higher price. That is the autozone way,” one commenter writes.
Frustrated New York Mechanic Blows His Lid Over Auto Zone Mistakes
Apparently, this isn’t an isolated incident. Comments on the video reveal a chorus of disgruntled customers and former employees. From tales of receiving defective CV axles to parts missing critical components. The stories paint a picture of a company struggling to maintain even basic standards. One former employee didn’t even dare shop there while on the clock, calling it a “trash place.” Others report that parts previously praised for quality have seemingly “gone downhill,” pushing loyal customers toward competitors like O’Reilly.
Some blame the shipping companies for the damage, and sure, boxes can get destroyed in transit. But when repackaged parts arrive cracked or missing essential pieces, the question becomes. Shouldn’t AutoZone have better quality control?
Customers shouldn’t have to babysit their orders to avoid being stranded with dangerous or useless parts. For example, one CV axle was the wrong size, causing a near accident at highway speeds. While another missing snap ring cost a Jeep owner hours of work and multiple tows.
Auto Zone Complaints Pile Up
Beyond shipping and defective parts, AutoZone has faced criticism for inconsistent customer service, slow returns, and failure to communicate accurate delivery timelines. Even when policies are in place to cover mistakes. Many customers report spending more time fighting bureaucracy than actually fixing their cars. In some cases, mechanics have had to double-check every part before installing it. Because assuming the store got it right is apparently too much to ask.
So, what’s the takeaway for New York mechanics (and anyone else tired of this nonsense)? AutoZone may still be a recognizable name, but the mounting reports of late deliveries, damaged parts, and safety risks make it hard to trust.
Not to mention the customer. Mechanics have to deal not only with the repair frustrations but also with angry customers awaiting the return of their vehicles. It is a messy situation for everyone involved.
For now, many are considering alternatives. Or just preparing for the inevitable headache when their next order arrives in pieces. In an industry that runs on precision and reliability, the frustration is real, and frankly, it’s about time someone called them out.
Kendra Quinn 
Sabrina Russell 
Nina Franklin 
