Case in point; why I do not shop at Autozone unless it's off the shelf stuff. Like car wash, or wax, or maybe oil.
There's been one knowledgeable person I've met working at Autozone, ever. The rest had blank, idiotic, and lost looks on their faces.
In other news, I've been seeing area grocery stores make baggers and employees wear ties, aprons, and proper pants again. They're trying, at least. Hell, half the baggers badmouth you, even for a simple request, ie; Can you make that paper please? Then that *tsk* comes out of their mouth and they start bitching, sometimes under their breath or directly to the customer. Standards should be higher. I hate people. Thought customer service was #1?
A knowledgeable parts guy can get a job done fast for shops, therefore opening spots in bays, raising profit. Faster parts go in, faster the cars come out, and the more money there is to be made. That is why people should expect parts guys to know their stuff. For the regular consumer, it's to have your personal car back on the road ASAP, to get to work or school. For the shop aspect, I've already listed it. Knowing what part you need, and being able to get it promptly is half the battle.
Sorry. Long freaking day, 2 1/2 hours of sleep, class, work, and I wouldn't be surprised if I ran into my ex tonight, with the day I've been having.