Some parts should never be purchased used, such as those prone to quick wear and tear such as brake pads and rotors; therefore it would be more prudent to purchase new.
However, that doesn’t mean buying used car parts won’t save money for you. Here are five tips to ensure the most satisfying purchasing experience.
Know What You Want
Predictable shopping can save time and energy when looking for used auto parts. Make sure that before making any purchases, you know which part you require and bring along an original part so you can compare them against their used counterpart. Also make sure that a store allows returns if something doesn’t suit you!
If a store representative refuses to answer questions regarding the history of an auto part you’re interested in purchasing, it would be wise to avoid buying it altogether as its past may compromise its quality resulting in something that won’t stand the test of time.
Consideration should also be given to prices. If they seem excessively high, it would be prudent to look elsewhere. Also be sure to ask whether any used auto parts come with some type of guarantee – even if just temporary one exists.
Check the Color of the Part
When purchasing used auto parts, it’s essential that the color matches perfectly. Doing this will prevent costly refinishing jobs in the future and ensures the part fits exactly as planned. There can be various variations of paint colors available; therefore it is necessary to inspect its hue prior to making a decision on one part over another.
If you plan on purchasing from a salvage or junkyard, always research their reputation and offer of warranties before buying local as this allows for easier inspection and testing of parts before purchase.
Keep an eye out for counterfeit parts. They pose serious safety hazards for you, other drivers and your vehicle as well as tending to be less reliable than original parts. Always visually inspect a part before purchasing it so as to prevent being fooled by counterfeiters.
Check the Store’s Return Policy
Shopping around for used auto parts is key when looking for the best prices and reliable providers. Doing your research before purchasing will ensure you receive quality parts at fair prices from reliable sources.
If a seller charges significantly more for an identical part, they could be trying to take advantage of you. A trustworthy supplier should always be transparent with their pricing and conditions for selling parts.
Be sure to check the store’s return policy prior to making a purchase so that, in the unlikely event that something goes wrong or does not fit your vehicle properly, you have an easy way out if needed.
Always search for OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts. This will guarantee compatibility between the part and your car model, and won’t void warranties. Avoid third-party manufactured parts as they tend to be less reliable and may cause other issues with it.
Ask Questions
When purchasing used car parts, many consumers fail to ask enough questions before making their purchases, leading them down a path that may end up costing more than necessary because the part doesn’t suit their vehicle or worse yet, costing money for its defectiveness.
Ask the age of the auto part to help determine its worthiness; older parts could have experienced more wear and tear over time and should therefore be given special consideration before purchasing.
Be sure to inquire about a store’s return policy; this is particularly essential when purchasing larger parts like engines and transmissions. Make sure you thoroughly comprehend their policy so as to prevent any potential future headaches.
Buy quality used auto parts can save you a significant amount of money, but it’s crucial that you understand five key aspects that could impede the process. These are: compatibility, price, warranty and delivery time.