i'm currently looking around for parts and keep seeing listings from a website called partsavatar.ca has anyone had any experience with them or can tell if it's an obvious scam? prices are like half the price of more reputable sources

 

prices really depend on what brand you are buying. Don't compare genuine Volvo to named OEM suppliers to major aftermarket suppliers to budget aftermarket. You can easily compare parts/brands on Amazon or eBay to see what to expect for a price then compare to the online store's price. What part are you looking to buy or are just looking to promote the website?

 

I guess my question right back at you would be why you do you think they are "less reputable".
There are times some retailers cut prices on quality (OEM) parts. If this is the case then you should have no problem. If your main criterion is price you will likely end up replacing some of the parts you replaced early, fight installation due to shoddy workmanship, and risk having safety issues.
Back around '73 or '74 I bought a starter for my '68 Torino from a local rebuilder, for way less than the parts stores. I had to replace it 2 times in six or seven months (under warranty , which he honored). Finally I woke up and bought a good one at the dealer and never replaced it for the remaining 5 years or so I owned the car. The price stung a bit but after a while I stopped holding my breath every time I turned the key. I honestly think that was the last time I bought crap parts for a car.