Using Used Auto Parts

Your guide to identifying, buying, and using used auto parts

There's little doubt that using used auto parts can save you bucket loads of money. New parts can be incredibly costly, and quality used parts can work just as well. The trick, however, is to ensure you're buying the correct part, that the part is of high quality, and that you don't waste lots of time searching for the part you need.

Before you head for the junk yard, take some time to research a few important issues about buying auto parts used. Be sure you:

1. Understand important used auto parts terminology.

2. Take advantage of a great used auto parts locator.

3. Know the basics of which used auto body parts are okay to buy and which are not.

 

Learn important terms about refurbished auto parts and other used parts

"Recycled parts" generally refers to parts taken from junk yards "as is" or cleaned up to look more attractive. "Rebuilt parts" are those that were once broken, but have been removed from their original vehicle and repaired. "Remanufactured car parts" have been thoroughly repaired so they meet new part standards. "Used parts," although a term sometimes used without further explanation, is a completely inadequate term and should be avoided.
Try: The Automotive Parts Remanufactures Association offers a lot of good information about used, remanufactured vehicle parts, including a glossary of common, general terms. GetUsedParts.com features a large online glossary of automotive terms as they relate to specific parts.

Use the most effective used auto parts search system

Once you understand what you need, you can either call your local junk yards or used parts stores, asking if they have the correct parts in stock. This can be a time consuming process, however, and buying used auto parts online is much faster. Online parts locating services have access to used parts inventories throughout the country, and can instantly tell you where to buy what you need.
Try: Auto Parts Locating Service and AutoAndParts.com are both considered excellent locating services, scanning the inventories of businesses selling used auto parts for sale throughout the U.S.

Avoid certain refurbished car parts and other used parts

There are some parts that should never be purchased used. These include water pumps (the gaskets and seals are likely to be bad), brake system parts, safety equipment, bearings, gaskets, filters or spark plugs, among other things.
Try: For information about using used auto parts, and which parts should never be purchased used, check out this reader question at TrustMyMechanic.com. Automotix sells "Buying Junkyard Parts -- The Complete Guide," an eBook with complete information about buying and using used auto parts.

 

• Some unscrupulous dealers sell counterfeit used auto parts. These can pose a quality and safety issue, so always compare used parts to your old, broken part.

Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---