Auto Parts for Rebuilding Engines: A Guide to Performance Parts

What to Think About When Buying Used Versus New Car Parts

Car repairs can be very expensive, which is one reason that many car owners consider buying used parts whenever possible. While they may be cheaper, this doesn't mean they're always going to be the right purchase. You also don't want to just dismiss the idea of buying used parts if you assume that there is something wrong with them, or that they'll break down quickly.

To help you determine between used parts versus new parts for your car, note the following:

1. Do your car have a warranty?

If you have any type of warranty on your vehicle, you need to note if that warranty insists that you use new parts and even certain brand name parts for it to stay in effect. Some warranties are worded so that you need to always use new parts and genuine parts from the car's manufacturer or the warranty will be voided.

If this were to happen, you may wind up paying for repairs to the vehicle that would have otherwise been covered by the warranty simply because of choosing used parts.

2. Does the part have a warranty?

If you're concerned about the quality of used parts, note if they offer a warranty. If so, this tells you that the seller stands behind their part. Some remanufactured parts, meaning those that had repairs made to them, have been inspected and then tested thoroughly, perhaps even as much as new parts.

They may then have a warranty, as sellers know the part will perform as it should and withstand standard wear and tear. If a used part doesn't come with any type of warranty, this may tell you that the seller can't guarantee its performance.

3. What is the expected life or your ownership of the car?

If you have an older car, you may not expect to drive it for more than a few years. You may know that within that time, you'll need to trade it in for a new vehicle as it continues to break down, or may want to buy a new vehicle for whatever reason. If this is the case, you might ask yourself why you would pay the money for a new part that is expected to last longer than the car, or longer than you expect to own the car. While driving an older car doesn't mean that you should just use unreliable parts, it is good to consider how much you're willing to spend on those parts for a car that you don't expect to own for many more years.

To learn more, contact a company like Q.A.H. Auto Spares.


Share