Guide to Buying Used Auto Parts

Is buying used auto parts a smart way to save money? Find out how to choose good quality used car parts so you won't end up buying a pile of junk.

The best thing about buying junkyard parts is that they are almost always cheaper than buying new or aftermarket. I say "almost" because there are times when I have used parts that were more expensive, or almost more expensive than the part from the dealer. It is important that you check other parts sources before you buy used just so you know how much other parts cost.

The downside to buying recycled parts is that they have already been used so they are not always as reliable as new ones. If you are buying electrical auto parts then most companies will not give you a warranty on these parts, so they might be way cheaper, but if they don't work it's obviously still not a good deal.

It is extremely important when buying a used part that you ask the sales person lots of questions. How many miles did the donor car have? What kind of condition is the part in? Is there a warranty on this used part? Does it work?, etc. These are all important questions. You want to learn as much as possible about a used auto part before you buy it.

The best thing about buying junkyard parts is that they are almost always cheaper than buying new or aftermarket. I say "almost" because there are times when I have used parts that were more expensive, or almost more expensive than the part from the dealer. It is important that you check other parts sources before you buy used just so you know how much other parts cost.

The downside to buying recycled parts is that they have already been used so they are not always as reliable as new ones. If you are buying electrical auto parts then most companies will not give you a warranty on these parts, so they might be way cheaper, but if they don't work it's obviously still not a good deal.

It is extremely important when buying a used part that you ask the sales person lots of questions. How many miles did the donor car have? What kind of condition is the part in? Is there a warranty on this used part? Does it work?, etc. These are all important questions. You want to learn as much as possible about a used auto part before you buy it.

Another quick note: You don't want to buy parts that wear out often from an auto recycler. For example under normal circumstances you would never buy used brake pads, or window wiper blades. These types of parts are not expensive and would wear out before too long anyway if you bought them used. Remember to think about how worn out the used part might be before you consider buying it.

If you know you want to buy a used part the next problem is finding an auto recycler that has the part in stock. I have been buying many used parts for a lot of years the following sites are some of the most popular places to find and buy used auto parts online: Car-Part.com, The Auto Channel, and good old Craigslist (Click your state > for sale > auto parts)

Second hand auto parts are not always the best way to go, but most of the time it is a great option. Using the website above you will be on your way to getting a great deal on a used car part.

Update: Having bought countless items from different retail shops and websites over the years, I now buy almost all auto parts, tools and supplies from Amazon: Automotive.

I begun buying vehicle replacement parts on Amazon a few years ago due to the cost savings and convenience. I find that Amazon sells most automotive products about 20 to 30% cheaper than retail stores, plus the free shipping helps me cut down traveling expenses and time.

Amazon's Automotive Part Finder also makes it a breeze to find the correct parts and accessories. All I have to do is to enter the vehicle year, make and model... and Amazon will show me a list of parts which fit that specific vehicle.

If you sign up for Amazon Prime, you can expect to receive most items within two days. This is far quicker than other online auto retailers who often take 5 to 14 days to deliver.

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