4 IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS WHEN SEARCHING FOR USED CAR PARTS
Admin • August 14, 2017
If you do your own vehicle work, are the owner of a collectible car, or perhaps just enjoy the challenging of restoring a "fixer upper," then you may already know the value of buying used car parts. You can save a lot of money by buying used car parts, and it might be the only way to find some vehicle parts, particularly for rare or vintage makes.
However, before you begin buying used car parts, you should know a few helpful suggestions that will make the process a lot smoother and help you avoid any hassles or problems. Below are several considerations to keep in mind.
FIGURE OUT HOW MUCH YOU CAN SAVE BY BUYING USED PARTS
Buying used car parts is a big money saver, but it is important to calculate how much money you can save by buying used. The best way to do this is by shopping around and making price comparisons.
You can establish a price baseline for used auto parts by finding the price for equivalent new parts. New part pricing can be obtained from several sources, including dealerships, auto parts retailers and online vendors. Typically, but not always, dealers will be the highest priced of any of the new parts retailers.
Finding this price baseline will be helpful because it will help you know if buying used is your best value. In rare cases, buying a new part may be only slightly more expensive and might be to your benefit.
KNOW WHEN TO BUY NEW
As mentioned, there may be some occasions when buying a new part is a better deal when compared to an equivalent used part. However, keep in mind that not all new parts are factory quality, as some are inferior in quality to even used parts. Investigate where new parts were made and who manufactured them before making a purchase decision.
There may be other instances where buying a new part is preferable or even necessary; for example, it isn't sensible to buy a used oil filter. Here are a few examples of parts best bought new:
- Brake pads or rotors
- Engine belts
- Air bags
- Seat belts
In addition, keep in mind that some other used components, such as catalytic converters, aren't permitted to be sold as used, so know the law in your area.
PURCHASE A PARTS VEHICLE
If you are the owner of a vehicle that needs extensive work or restoration, then you may benefit by purchasing a similar vehicle simply for the purpose of providing parts. A non-running parts vehicle can often be bought for a lot less than a complete car, and it can provide you with an accessible, easy supply of parts.
When selecting a parts vehicle, look for a vehicle that is the same make and model as your car. If you aren't able to obtain an exact match, then find a parts vehicle that is as close to your vehicle specifications as possible. A parts vehicle that is too different may not have enough matching parts to make it worthwhile, but one that is within a year or two of your model may be perfectly fine.
BUY FROM A REPUTABLE DEALER
When buying used car parts, you should seek to purchase them from a reputable dealer whenever possible. There are a variety of parts dealers in business, but not all of them adhere to the same standards, so it is beneficial to do a little homework before buying.
For example, look for a dealer that is organized and places a high value on keeping their parts well inventoried. In addition, experience means a lot, so be sure to buy from a dealer that thoroughly understands the used parts business and the needs of customers. Finally, keep in mind that reputable dealers will often offer a guarantee or warranty on their parts.
Advantage Salvage & Auto Parts LLC is a great place to look for used auto parts, so be sure to stop by our facility or contact us for assistance.
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