It’s no secret that car parts don’t come cheaply. When you need to replace a part for your car, it can be tempting to go with the bargain bin option. But before you buy used auto parts, you must do your research and purchase the correct components. Otherwise, you might be putting a bandaid on a much more significant, more expensive problem.

If you want to keep your car running and your money in your wallet, here are six questions to ask before you buy a used car part.

What are the benefits of auto salvage yards I should know about?

The benefit of buying used car parts from a salvage yard is that the seller provides you with OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts. It is important to note that you will need to know your car’s year, make, and model to find the right part for your specific vehicle. However, if you visit a reputable auto salvage yard like All Truck and Car, a used auto parts provider in Utah, you’ll reap the following benefits:

• Low prices for parts
• Ready access to parts for your vehicle that are hard to find
• Peace of mind knowing your money is well spent

Salvage yards also keep tons of vehicle waste out of landfills and oceans each year, so it’s the gift that keeps on giving for your broken-down buggy.

Will this part fit my car?

Before buying used car parts, it is essential to know that a random salvaged car part may not fit your vehicle. Therefore, it is vital to have the year, make, and model of your car with you when going to a salvage yard so that you can receive an OEM part for your specific vehicle. Even if the piece says it’s guaranteed for all cars of a particular make and model, there are no such assurances in the car world. This rule is especially the case if you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, as you’ll want to avoid compromising your truck’s off-roading abilities.

What do I need my new auto parts to accomplish?

When buying used car parts, it is essential to remember that these replacements aren’t brand new. If you need your part to last for a while and complete some heavy-duty work on the road, then it may not be worth purchasing a used replacement. While cheaper for one-time fixes, secondhand auto may not be the route for you if you plan on replacing the part every few years due to wear and tear.

What will I find at auto salvage yards?

Salvage yards provide used and OEM replacement parts for cars and trucks, so they often have new and reconditioned items lying around in their inventory. Things like headlights, taillights, interior lighting fixtures switches, and power window components are just some of the items you can find at salvage yards.

What if I need help finding what I’m looking for?

If you buy used car parts and aren’t sure where to start or how much something should cost, don’t hesitate to ask the staff members. The staff will know what they have available and also be able to answer any other questions you may have about their products and services.

Is it safe to buy used car parts from a junkyard?

You should always avoid buying dirt cheap auto parts from suspicious sources. There is currently no federal regulation on the sales of reconditioned vehicle components which means that used car sellers aren’t required to adhere to the same safety standards as car dealerships.

Items like airbags are one of many parts found at auto salvage yards, but you should know that these components are hazardous if they’ve been in an accident previously. While used auto parts are an excellent way to save money, you should remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Conclusion

Buying used car parts should not be taken lightly. If you want to save money on your next replacement, it is vital first to understand what you’re getting into and how it may affect your vehicle’s functionality. Then, once you fully understand the risks of buying used car parts, decide whether or not this option fits your current lifestyle and budget needs.

If you do your research first, secondhand doesn’t have to mean second-rate.