A Guide to Buying Used Car Parts: Why They Really Are Good Value for Money
It is common knowledge that used car parts are cheaper and more readily available than their new counterparts. But are they really good value for money? At A.S.A.P. Spares, we believe that there is a place for every part in the industry. Some repairs require only new original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts while others can be fixed in perfectly good order by using used OEM spares.
However, which option you should use is a subject often debated. There is no arguing that used car parts dealers play a vital role in the safe, eco-friendly disposal of vehicles that are no longer fit for the road. Through this process, second-hand auto spares are recovered from these decommissioned vehicles and many of them are found to be fully functional. Although slightly used, they were manufactured by the original vehicle’s engineers. In some instances, these used spare parts may be more compatible with your car than new OEM spares. Let’s consider why.
Why It’s Worth Buying Used Car Parts
-
Ensure Better Availability
Waiting lists for new OEM spares can delay projects for weeks. Additionally, in some cases, run-in engine parts may experience damage when incompatible OEM parts are used. Responsible wreck yards will carry equal-year model spares or younger to ensure seamless performance repairs.
Always ensure that you have the exact part number. Take photos of the part or take it along with you when sourcing a replacement. If carefully selected, certain parts could perform better than some aftermarket parts. Although these parts are not always sold with a warranty, developing a relationship with a renowned dealer in your area may curtail any guarantee concerns.
-
Pay a Fraction of New Car Parts Prices
Unless repairs are covered entirely by insurance policies, paying full price for genuine OEM spares may result in an overcapitalised asset. Used car parts offer a solution for an economical repair while ensuring that the fitted spares operate effectively.
As with the vehicle you are repairing, used parts have undergone wear and tear too. Check parts carefully before purchasing them. While many parts are ready to be fitted and used to repair the vehicle straight away, accept that there may be occasions where replacement bushes, brushes, rubber mountings and the like might need to be refurbished first.
-
Get in Touch with a Reputable Car Parts Partner
If you are going to be using second-hand parts regularly, whether professionally or as an avid auto enthusiast, do your research. Search your local area and use the internet or ask local workshops who their preferences are. Name and reputation are what the used auto spares market thrives on and when making enquiries, you will often hear only one or two recurring names.
The establishments that are most mentioned will come with stellar references that will include a passion for perfection, a provider of consistent quality parts at competitive prices and a reputation of service excellence that supersedes their usual duties and responsibilities. These dealers are often worth building relationships with, even if you have to travel to reach them.
-
Benefit from Brand Specialists
For the best-quality used car parts, search for scrapyards that specialise in your repair vehicle’s make and model. Dealers that specialise in certain vehicle brands have a more focused area of expertise. They are far more meticulous when it comes to the quality of the stock they purchase, and the parts offered for sale are often in a much better condition.
Although there are many reputable general brand scrapyards, there are those that will purchase and process anything. Take note of these and try to identify and avoid them as the quality of their used car parts may be questionable.
Where to Find Your Preferred Parts Professionals
At A.S.A.P. Spares, we specialise in new, used and aftermarket Opel, Suzuki, Peugeot, Renault, Chevrolet and Citroën quality spares. Since 2001, we have been the suppliers of carefully sourced auto spares and our reputation speaks for itself. Reach out to us and join our happy community of recurring clients today. A.S.A.P. Spares, where great friendships are made through trust and quality.