Most vehicle owners consider their car to be essential to their everyday routine. Our vehicles make it possible to get to and from work, get the kids from point A to point B, and to have reliable transportation for everyday errands. In short, there is never a good time for a car to need repair! On top of the costs of regular vehicle maintenance, an unexpected repair can leave you looking for a more sensible option. Buying used parts from an auto salvage yard can be a great alternative to getting brand new parts from the dealer. Like everything, buying used parts comes with a unique set of pros and cons. 

Pros of Buying Used Parts

Saving Money

Buying used parts saves vehicle owners big money when compared to purchasing brand new. Labor fees are also a huge part of the cost at dealerships – You will save even more if you are able to install your new part yourself! 

Helping the Environment

Waste from automobiles is inevitable today, but it is harmful to the environment and much of it is unnecessary. Buying used car parts saves them from going to waste. You can look at buying used as a form of recycling! 

Some Parts are Like New

With many parts, buying from a salvage yard does not have to mean skimping on quality. Just because a car is at an auto salvage lot does not mean it is old or useless. Vehicles can even be totaled and still have plenty of usable parts. For example, a vehicle’s frame might have been damaged enough to leave it totaled, but the parts under the hood can still be salvaged! 

Cons of Buying Used Parts

Small Selections

When buying used, it can sometimes be hard to find what you are looking for. The inventory of auto salvage yards depends on what has been sold to them. The larger salvage yards are likely to have a wider assortment of parts. You also might want to call ahead to see if your part is available instead of searching on site. 

Limited Warranty 

Used car parts will not come with the same warranty as new ones. This means there is a bit of risk when buying used. You should always buy from a trusted salvage yard that knows what they are doing and can advise you on how much life is left in the product. 

Shipping Parts

If a local salvage yard doesn’t have what you are looking for in stock, they might be able to connect you with somewhere else that does. You could also find luck searching for the part online. This will entail paying for shipping and waiting at least a few days. Even with shipping cost included, you will likely still be saving money. 

Robertson’s Auto Salvage is the leading salvage yard in Southeastern MA. To check our inventory & learn more, give us a call at 800-551-2680 or visit our website robertsonautosalvage.com