Oreileys for the win

The best local chain up my way is NAPA. They have a steady crew that's been there a while and know their stuff. Auto Zone is fine for easy stuff or consumables, but not so much if you get too far off the beaten path. AZ also has a good rewards program if you work it right.

The worst by far is O'Reilly's. Their entire staff is so dumb they need instructions on how to breathe. And their customer service doesn't just stink (which it does), it's like they take great pride in winning the horrible customer service contest, held daily at their parts counter.

Thank God I have a local, independent, great parts store run by real car guys - Tony's in Vancouver. They are stellar and I go there as my first choice, even through they are further away.