Buying high-performance auto parts online can be a daunting task, especially when choosing among thousands of vendors offering similar products. One well-known name in the aftermarket automotive community is Vivid Racing. With numerous reviews across forums, social media platforms, and ecommerce websites, many customers find themselves asking: Is Vivid Racing legit?
TL;DR: Vivid Racing is a legitimate and widely recognized aftermarket auto parts retailer with a strong presence in the automotive industry. They offer a broad selection of high-performance parts for cars, motorcycles, and trucks, and are known for their in-house tuning shop and extensive online content. While the vast majority of customers report positive experiences, some complaints revolve around shipping delays and customer service issues. However, these are not uncommon in the performance auto parts sector, and most issues are resolved.
Company Background
Vivid Racing was founded in 2001 in Gilbert, Arizona, and has become one of the most prominent players in the automotive aftermarket parts industry. The company caters to enthusiasts looking to improve the performance, aesthetics, and reliability of their vehicles. Over the years, they have expanded their inventory to include parts for brands like BMW, Audi, Subaru, Toyota, Nissan, Ford, and more.
Besides ecommerce, Vivid Racing is known for content creation through its YouTube channel, blogs, and vehicle build features. Automotive Enthusiasts can find installation guides, performance reviews, and comparison videos, helping consumers make informed decisions about what modifications are right for them.
Product Range and Inventory
Vivid Racing offers thousands of products in different categories including:
- Exhaust systems
- Suspension components
- Turbo kits and intakes
- Exterior and interior styling parts
- Braking systems
- Wheels and tires
They partner with major brands like HKS, KW Suspension, Brembo, Akrapovič, and Volk Racing. In addition to third-party products, Vivid Racing features its own house-brand components, which are typically more cost-effective while still maintaining high performance standards.
Online Shopping Experience
The user interface of Vivid Racing’s website is quite intuitive. The navigation menus, vehicle selector tool, and filtering systems make it easy to find compatible parts. Each product page includes a detailed description, shipping options, estimated delivery times, user reviews, and high-resolution images. Some listings even feature video content for additional clarification.
Checkout is straightforward, with multiple payment options including major credit cards, PayPal, Affirm for financing, and cryptocurrency payments like Bitcoin – something that sets them apart from many competitors.
Customer Support and Responsiveness
Customer service is where opinions about Vivid Racing start to vary. While many users report smooth transactions, accurate tracking information, and responsive support staff, others cite experiences where support was slow to respond or shipping was delayed.
According to third-party review platforms like Trustpilot and Sitejabber, the company maintains a generally positive average rating. Most complaints are resolved, typically revolving around inventory mismatches or delays caused by vendor back-orders – a common issue in the aftermarket parts industry.
Support channels available include:
- Email and ticket system
- Phone support
- Live chat (during business hours)
- Active social media presence
Shipping and Returns
Vivid Racing offers worldwide shipping and has partnerships with major carriers like FedEx and UPS. Domestic shipping within the United States usually takes between 3–7 business days, depending on the product’s availability. For international customers, customs fees and delivery times vary by country.
Their return policy is fair but strict. Customers must return unused items in their original packaging within 30 days. Some items are subject to a restocking fee, and the customer usually bears the return shipping cost unless the error was on Vivid’s end. Custom-ordered products are generally non-returnable, which is standard industry practice.
Community Presence and Reputation
One of the strongest indicators of Vivid Racing’s legitimacy is their active presence within the car enthusiast community. Whether it’s through sponsoring events, attending SEMA shows, or offering technical help online, the brand remains highly visible. They also operate a forum for enthusiasts and are frequently mentioned on platforms like Reddit, NASIOC, and Bimmerpost.
Vivid Racing’s YouTube channel is particularly popular, as it showcases real-time builds, dyno runs, and product testing. This transparency helps build trust within their audience by demonstrating that they are not just a reseller, but deeply engaged in performance tuning and car culture.
Verified Reviews and Testimonials
Review sites like Trustpilot give Vivid Racing an average of 4 out of 5 stars, with many customers applauding the easy shopping experience and professional advice. Here are a few summarized testimonials:
- “Ordered coilovers for my WRX, arrived in 5 days as promised. Installed and everything fit perfectly.”
- “Had an issue with availability, but customer service offered a refund or product swap without hassle.”
- “Prices are fair. Loved that I could browse parts based on my car model. Made everything fast and easy.”
However, it’s essential to read individual product reviews and check lead times before making a purchase to ensure that the item is in stock or not on backorder.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extensive product catalog from top brands
- Secure and modern website with ease of use
- Competitive pricing and financing options
- Active community presence and valuable content
- International shipping available
Cons:
- Occasional delays on special order or backordered items
- Returns may incur restocking fees
- Mixed customer service experiences depending on volume of orders
Final Verdict
So, is Vivid Racing legit? The answer is a resounding yes. While no large ecommerce site is free of dissatisfied customers, the sheer volume of positive experiences, quick order fulfillment, and quality of parts confirms that Vivid Racing is a trusted choice among car enthusiasts. Those willing to do a bit of due diligence—reading product details, checking lead times, or contacting support before purchase—can expect a smooth transaction.
With over two decades in business and a vast network of suppliers, Vivid Racing continues to stand out as one of the more reliable sources for aftermarket performance parts online.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Vivid Racing a reputable company?
- Yes, Vivid Racing is widely known in the automotive community and has been operating since 2001. They are recognized for selling high-quality aftermarket parts and engaging with customers through multiple digital channels.
- Where is Vivid Racing located?
- Vivid Racing is located in Gilbert, Arizona, USA, and they operate both as an online store and a physical tuning facility.
- What kind of products does Vivid Racing sell?
- They sell automotive aftermarket parts including exhausts, suspensions, intake systems, turbo kits, aesthetic modifications, and performance tuning gear.
- Does Vivid Racing offer returns?
- Yes, they offer returns within 30 days for most unused items in original packaging. Custom or special orders may not be eligible, and restocking fees can apply.
- How long does shipping usually take?
- Shipping times vary, but most in-stock items ship within a few days. Delivery typically takes 3-7 business days for domestic orders, while international orders may take longer.
- Is it safe to order from Vivid Racing online?
- Yes. The website is secured with SSL encryption and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, major credit cards, financing, and cryptocurrency.