I find it odd how you guys have such horror stories about car parts places. If, for some reason, I need to go to one of these places then I usually have a good experience.

Me - "Hey, I'm looking for a (insert part here) for a (insert car here), can you help me out?"
Them - "Let's see, that's a part number ##### and I have three choices available depending on price range."
Me - "Cheap because I'm broke as hell." *laugh*
Them - *laugh* "No problem, here you go. That'll be $##.## total."
Me - "Thanks man, have a good one."
Them - "You too."

Maybe you guys just live in Retardville.