You will agree with me that buying used car and truck parts tags along with some advantages. They are cheap and readily available at junkyards and used car parts dealers and at the local and online stores as well. Also, the fact that most used parts are OEM makes 2nd hand parts an excellent bargain for the buck. If you are on the market for parts, below are some helpful tips.
Where to Buy
Today, used car parts are available at the local stores and online stores as well. If you choose to buy at the local store, well and good but these days, buying car parts online is the best option. Online marketplaces have a variety at competitive prices. You also get to enjoy the convenience of online shopping. If you are a handyman, you can also visit the local wreck yard.
Warranty and Return Policies
It doesn’t always go well with second-hand auto parts, and that’s why you should consider the warranty and return policies of the seller. The warranty comes in handy in case the part is faulty, while returns and exchanges come in handy when you ordered the wrong item. Make sure you understand the terms in full to avoid inconveniences.
Know Precisely What You Want
Most sellers are not helpful when it comes to the parts you need. For them, making a sale is the most important thing. It’s your responsibility to research the exact part you need. Consult with your handbook and find out the correct part numbers if available. Your car model, date of manufacture, and variant are also crucial in identifying the exact part you need. Many are the times when buyers order the wrong part, and in the long run, incur lots of time wastage and courier expenses.
What Are You Buying?
Well, while used car parts sound a great deal, not all parts are recommended for reuse. Some need new replacements for efficiency. It’s also essential to assess the condition of the part you are buying. You could use the help of your mechanic or friend in identifying a second-hand part with some life inside.
Ask About the History
Be very challenging on the part history. Find out how the part ended up at the dealer, and its condition if you are buying engines, differentials, gearboxes and such parts. For the rest of the parts like side mirrors, door locks, headlamps, fenders, and bonnets, find ads with clear pictures to match the colour and style if you are buying online.
Consider Installation
If you are buying expensive parts that require installation, for example, your truck’s crankshaft, gearbox, differential, injector pump or pistons, consider dealerships that can get the job done even if it’s at a higher cost. Such a seller will make sure that you get the best service, and the mounting of the part is successful.
Know How to Haggle
On marketplaces like Craiglist and eBay, you can get some really good deals on used car parts. Don’t shy off from quoting low prices, but then, be considerate with your offer. Some sellers are urgently disposing of some items to free up some space and would take any considerable offer, try your luck.
Weigh Your Options
While second-hand car parts are in abundance at very affordable prices, consider the price difference when you buy new. If the difference is significant, you have the green light, but if the margins are insignificant, go for new.
Seek Recommendations
For parts like headlamps, sun visors, door handles, and other similar parts, it is not hard to shop around. But when it comes to the complex systems, you could seek some recommendations form your local garage, or even on some of the motoring forums.
The above are some helpful tips when buying used auto parts. Whether you have a restoration project or you are fixing a small accident, used car parts will save you some bucks. Buying online can also save you more money, which you can channel to other parts.
