Went to Costco to get a price on winter tires for my 04. I had checked Tire Rack reviews and found the ones I liked, Blzzaks. Check Costco's online price, found it wasn't too bad. Go to store, guy behind the desk gives me a total installed price for all 4. I ask if the price per tire is the same as online. "Yea it should be". I mention the online deal has a $70 rebate. "Yea we have that too". Price he gave seemed high and he didn't seem interested in breaking down the price so I left. Go back online, total price for all 4 installed and shipped to the same store for installation turns out to be $70 cheaper. Tires ordered online.
Today I get ready to plug in the block heater for the first time this season. Yea, I know, not really needed in NJ but I put it in and I like it. Dig out the plug and decide their has to be a better way. Google block heater socket find one I like, Amazon $20 plus $11 shipping for the black one, not eligible for prime shipping arrives after Christmas. Check the web some more. Walmart, same item, $22 free shipping to store, arrives Friday.
So my point of this rambling is it pays to check around for the best price and seller for the parts your looking for.