We all know how expensive it can be to run a car, so when a fault develops and a new part is required it can really make a dent in your finances.
But before you pay out for brand new parts, why not consider the benefits of buying used ones for a fraction of the price? Let’s take a look at the reasons why buying second-hand could be your saviour…
- Options
There are a number of different places you can find used parts, including salvage yards and auto repair shops. If you take the time to look around a local salvage yard, you may be surprised how much potential they have for finding some real bargains.
- Cost
You can buy most car parts second hand, and they are usually much cheaper. The price will vary depending on rarity, demand, and condition – but unless you are trying to source very rare parts for classic cars, the cost will be significantly less than at new. Some salvage companies, like U-Pull-It, also offer you the opportunity to break vehicles and remove parts yourself, which can save you even more money.
- Availability
If your car is a very old model, you might find that your manufacturer no longer holds parts in stock. The good news with second-hand part suppliers is you can usually track down the parts you need, especially if your car is a popular make/model.
And if all that wasn’t reason enough, did you know that by purchasing used parts you are also helping the environment? Purchasing from a salvage yard or auto repair shop, means you are encouraging recycling and are helping to keep these parts out of landfill sites. So, not only are you saving money but you’re helping to save the environment too.
Making your match…
Of course, you’ll need to make sure you find the correct parts for your vehicle and this may require a little bit of preparation. To ensure that you get it right, there’s a few things you’ll need to look for:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
This unique 17-character number specifically relates to your vehicle and can be used to find the exact parts you need. There are a number of different places your VIN number might appear on your vehicle, although it is most commonly found on the driver side interior dashboard or the driver side door post. Or you should be able to find it on your vehicle insurance policy or the title and registration records.
- Part Codes
Sometimes parts will have their own code, so take a close look at the part you need to replace to see if there are any numbers or letters printed on it. You may need to clean the part to find it! This could be a messy job, you worth it if it means you can identify an exact match to what you need.
- Part Comparison
Another option is to take the part you need to replace with you, so you can compare it to the parts available at the yard or shop you are visiting. You may need to ask an experienced member of staff at the facility to help you identify a match.
So, it’s clear to see that purchasing used or second-hand car parts can offer you a number of benefits over buying new. But it’s important to remember that every vehicle is different, and in order to see the full advantages, make sure to use the advice above to find the best parts for your vehicle.