Car repairs can put quite a dent in the average budget, but fortunately, many consumers are beginning to catch on to the value of using used auto parts rather than buying brand new ones. Some car parts should always be installed new, such as air and fuel filters, mufflers, timing belts, and water pumps, while others work perfectly fine when used. Following is a short list of the most common used auto parts that can help you save a bundle on repair bills.
Body Parts
All body parts can easily be purchased used from salvage yards and installed on your vehicle as a cost-effective alternative to brand new items. The same goes for exterior and interior mirrors, bumpers, trim, hub caps, and gas caps. You can also install used taillights on your car or truck, but headlights should be brand new.
Fuel Tanks
When purchasing a used fuel tank, make certain that you check it over well for any sign of leaks or holes. Because there are several different sizes of fuel tanks, you should make sure that the one you are buying fits your vehicle. For instance, the fuel tanks of most most smaller cars and trucks only hold between 12 and 15 gallons, while many large SUVs have fuel tanks that hold 24 or more gallons. Also, the used fuel tank that you choose should be free or rust and corrosion.
Oil Pans
A used oil pan that is in good condition makes a perfectly good replacement for one that has developed cracks or is otherwise no longer usable. Just like with with a used gas tank, check the oil pan for signs of leakage and corrosion, and make certain that it is the right size for your vehicle.
Water Pumps
The water pump is one of the most important parts of your car and truck, and fortunately, good used water pumps are easily available. Before you purchase one as a replacement for a pump that's malfunctioned, make certain that its bearings are in good working order and that it doesn't have any leaks.
Used car and truck parts can often be found in auto salvage yards like Bi County Auto Truck & Salvage. Many auto parts stores also carry used parts. Most of the time, however, your mechanic will not explain to you that you have the option to buy used parts rather than purchase them brand new, so be certain to ask if that's a possibility -- used parts will often cost a fraction of the price of their brand new counterparts.
Share8 January 2015
When it comes to auto repairs, I am lucky. A good friend of mine is very car savvy and is able to make the majority of the repairs that my car needs. However, recently he sprung a question on me that surprised me. He asked if I wanted him to install a new part or a quality used car part. I asked for his opinion and did some research online. I was surprised to find that there wasn't a lot of information out there about when you should and should not use used parts in your car. So that's how this website came to be. I decided to compile the information I learned, so that in the future, someone doesn't have to search all over to decide whether to have a new or used car placed in their car. Hope my website helps you to make your decision!