A Quick Guide to Buying Used Auto Parts

If you have a car, it is inevitable that, at some point, certain parts of your car will wear out. 

That said, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg buying brand-new parts right off the shelf. You can save a lot of money by buying your car parts used. Used auto parts are often just as good as new ones. 

However, there are a few things you should know before buying used car parts. The safety of your vehicle, and your life, could hang in the balance. 

Read on to discover a few helpful ways to ensure you are getting the best deal on used car parts. 

1. Some Things Shouldn’t Be Bought Used

Right off the bat, let’s go over a few things that shouldn’t be bought used altogether. These are car parts that are essential to your safety and that of any other passengers in your car.

• Airbags
• Seatbelts
• Brakes and brake parts
• Electronic sensors
• Ignition systems

If you do decide to buy used, you need to have a deep level of trust in your seller. Even a tiny defect in any of these items could result in a major accident or repair bill, or both. 

2. Safest Parts to Buy Used

There are a few types of parts that even someone with a limited understanding of car mechanics can purchase used with little worry. Just make sure the part model can fit the model of your car. 

These types of parts deal more with the cosmetic look of your car or don’t have any moving parts. These include:

• Windshields and windows
• Rims
• Windows
• Side mirrors
• Interior furnishings

While you can easily tell if these parts are intact, you will still need a professional to help you install them. You may be able to install rims yourself if you have the right tools. 

3. Use a Car Parts Locator

There are a wealth of resources online to help you find the right part for you at the right price. One of the most helpful resources is a car part locator.

All you have to do is input the make and model of your car, the year it was made, and your current location, and the website will tell you where to find the best parts for you. 

These take the guesswork out of buying used parts. For example, if you have a Scion FR-S, you can use the locator to find a list of parts the meet your needs. Then you can read more here about a Scion FRS.

These websites make a profit based on their reputation, so they will have an interest in only posting reliable parts. However, it is always important to be cautious when buying used, even if the website seems trustworthy. 

4. Ask About a Warranty

Many secondhand sellers expect you to buy their parts “as-is”. But it is always good practice to ask if they offer a warranty. It costs nothing to ask, so if they say no then there is no harm done. 

If they say yes, get a copy of the warranty and store it safely. Secondhand parts are more prone to failure, and that warranty could save you a bundle of money down the road. 

5. Check the Return Policy

Even if you do all the research you can, there’s always a chance that you will end up buying the wrong parts. There are so many similar parts on the market that you can’t help but get fooled once in a while. 

That’s why it is important to check if you can return the part. You don’ want to get stuck with a useless purchase. 

You’re Ready to Shop for Used Auto Parts

We hope that this article has been informative. Buying used auto parts isn’t that difficult, but it does take some research and scrutiny. 

With the help of this list, get out there and try a few different vendors. Eventually, you will find a seller that you have a good rapport with, and over time you can build a trusting relationship with them. 

One of the most important things a car-owner can have is a reliable source for auto parts!