Taking a car in for repairs is never fun, especially considering the price tag attached to replacing most car parts. Depending on the rarity of a model and the pedigree of the make, the cost of spare parts may range from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Fortunately, used car parts reduce the financial burden of expensive car parts. Due to them being sourced from a used car, these parts are likely to be much cheaper than the market rate. Some parts also wear significantly within a short period and may be unsafe to use as a replacement for the original. After all, most second hand car parts do not come with warranties or quality level markers to show how long they would ideally last. The vehicle owner should have a sense of the parts worth purchasing to save money and those better sourced from the dealership.
Headlights and Tail Lights
Headlights and taillights are essential for night vision and alert other road users of the presence of the vehicle. According to local law enforcement agencies, they are also a part of the legal requirements for road use. Since headlights are rarely proprietary to brands and the shapes among different makes or models are similar, they are easier to source from the used car market. LED or HID headlights are increasing in popularity because they are energy-efficient and easy to install, as most have plug-and-play settings. Though these fixtures are usually more expensive than the halogen bulbs that work for 90s cars or previous models, they are much brighter and cost-effective in the long run. Knowing the right configuration for a vehicle can determine the successful installation of a headlight bulb. It can be as simple as changing a lightbulb. LED Headlights also have the advantage of significant use before wear and tear creeps in. They can work for months or even years without issue until they break down. If the vehicle owner finds a set compatible with their car and in good working condition, it will likely work for a long time before needing replacement.
Wheels and Tires
Wheels or rims are one of the safest used car parts to purchase. Prospective buyers can just tell by looking at them if they meet their standards for quality before buying. The same goes for tires, though these can take significant punishment before they lose tread or get holes, which means replacement is required.
There are certain advantages when buying a used wheel or tire. For one, flexibility is essential. If buyers have to replace one tire, having a used tire on hand is a quicker and cheaper option. Going off of this, purchasing one used tire is much more affordable than buying an entire set of the required tires. The same goes for wheels. One can buy them individually on their schedule to function as replacements to deal with wear and tear. When purchasing a used tire, you should expect a tire with between 40% and 70% of its original usable tread. So, this may offer a serviceable option before it is possible to buy an entirely new set.
Mirrors
Door mirrors and windows need replacing, especially if they have cracks or breaks. Buying a brand-new heated mirror may cost over a hundred dollars, so it would be advisable to go for a used one to avoid that upfront cost. Fortunately, mirrors and windows do not have significant wear and tear, so a used one is probably just as good as a new one.
Interior Parts
Typical interior auto parts like floor mats, consoles, dashboards, steering wheels, and rearview mirrors may be replaced by used alternatives because used options do not always lack quality. Most interior parts undergo a process of slowed wear and tear as they are not regularly exposed to the elements. Instead, they only have to be content with touch or dust accumulation. The trick is to determine how to find and identify quality parts. When shopping online or through a reputable vendor, they will give specifications for the part so the buyer can confirm. Salvage parts are not advisable, especially if they are electrical, because it is impossible to tell if they are still functional. Salvage parts work best for parts where buyers can assess their quality visually. These are rubber or metallic, glass or plastic parts. If possible, one may also search for someone who is selling the same model for parts, provided the vehicle is still running. The seller's vehicle will likely have the exact specifications of interior parts. That way, one can get every interior piece they seek at a likely bargain.
Suspension Components
Suspension parts are trickier when it comes to replacement, though the answer to the question of whether to replace depends on the specific part. Bushes and ball joints have a high wear and tear rate, so replacing them with new ones would be advisable. The reason is one can never be sure how long they will last, so used ones may need replacing soon as well. That said, other parts, like springs, rarely wear quickly, so used ones will do just fine. Shocks can be replaced with used ones, which have not exceeded tens of thousands of miles. Like other used car parts, buyers must inspect the component they want before purchasing it to ensure its quality.
Braking Components
Brake parts are an essential part of any vehicle as they can sometimes mean the difference between life and death. As such, vehicle owners need to be sure the part they purchase is of the quality and specifications required for their car. That means taking time to inspect the brake parts one is willing to buy. Consider the main features of the rotors, such as warping and existing grooves. Knowing these elements can save one from potential danger and the driver from complete brake failure while driving. Overall, it is advisable to check with reputable vendors before committing to buy used brake parts.
Engine Parts
Used engine parts are also available for replacement for worn-out or broken-down components. Getting new engine parts is sometimes hard because they are expensive to purchase. In some cases, the manufacturer may have stopped making the parts because of company closure or a discontinuation of the model. In these cases, the vehicle owner has to source second hand car parts. The great thing is that many reliable vendors sell used parts on online platforms, auto auctions, and salvage yards. It is possible to find a specific part for any make or model. The vendors should have credibility within the community and with standard certification groups. Most with these endorsements will likely provide quality parts or issue recommendations on what to do next.
Exterior Body Panels
It is possible to find used exterior body panels from salvage yards and auctions. These places typically have vehicles being broken down for parts. If the make and model match the owner's vehicle, the parts will likely have the exact specifications. Vendors would also provide these parts at an affordable cost. Buyers can quickly assess the quality of these panels as they should not have blemishes. Most reputable used car parts vendors may refurbish the parts if they see any imperfections or potential issues. Due to this extra step, the parts may be priced slightly higher than when taken directly from a junk vehicle. Though they carry the assurance of quality.
Electrical Components
Vehicle owners can purchase used electrical components to save money. However, several factors must be considered before purchasing, such as age and overt quality. Owners should have evidence of when the components were made before purchase. Excessive signs of wear, like deterioration, often show that the parts are not in good condition. Take into consideration the vehicle’s warranty. It might still have time to cover the electrical parts like batteries, alternators, or car computers. Going for vendors that supply used Original Equipment manufacturing parts would be advisable. These vendors should have reputable standing within the community because working with trustworthy vendors presents a reduced chance of getting low-quality parts.
Where to Buy Used Car Parts
Selecting a reliable and reputable auto parts vendor is essential for buying used components. Luckily, established part suppliers have set up an online platform and have a brick-and-mortar address where they engage clients. Vehicle owners can also narrow down their choices by asking about the vendors in local communities or seeking their reviews online. Reliable used part vendors may also be found at salvage yards, auto auctions, and specialized auto part stores.
Conclusion
The prospect of buying second hand car parts may seem sketchy to some vehicle owners, but it is a viable alternative to buying new, especially if cost-effectiveness is a priority that cannot be ignored. Buying most auto parts used is virtually possible, from external body panels to engine parts. However, the process requires significant due diligence on the part of the vehicle owner. Parts like electrical components, brake and suspension parts have to be sourced with extra care to ensure they are of high quality. Most reliable used component suppliers operate from online stores, auctions, or salvage yards.
