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Are you experiencing car issues and need to replace a part or two? Before running to your local dealership and purchasing brand new parts, consider purchasing used auto parts. You will not only save money but will also avoid the headache of waiting for new parts to come into stock.

Is this your first time buying used auto parts? Here are two tips for purchasing used auto parts for your pride and joy.

Check Your Local Salvage Yard

We might be biased, but your local salvage yard is a great place for used auto parts. Some of the parts you might need might not be manufactured any more and can have extremely high costs associated with them. We’re not talking standard parts like a transmission, but other pars such as door handles or glass panels. 

Fortunately, we have a full inventory of parts available for you to view to make the search much easier. 

Considered Remanufactured Parts

When remanufactured the right way, remanufactured parts can work as good as new while saving you money. If you decide to go this route, make sure to work with reputable manufactuers and always get a warranty, just in case!

Looking for a specific part? Give our team a call today at (800) 551-7000.

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

It’s late May and I wonder what the new normal will become, how it will affect my family, friends and business. The COVID-19 pandemic is the greatest economic and social disruptor of our lifetime. Eighty years ago,
Winston Churchill led the United Kingdom through World War II, another massive economic and social disruptor to affect most of civilization. The quotes in this article are all from Winston Churchill. Sometimes you need to get inspiration from the past to tackle the present.

“Never, never, never, never give up.”

We, the Automotive Recycling Industry, are survivors. Unlike other industries, we can change our business models adapting to market trends. We will survive attacks from the OEM’s that restrict the ability to utilize the parts we sell in repairs. We will survive unfair regulations that environmental groups try to implement on our industry. We will survive unlicensed recyclers that operate under the radar and tarnish the name of our industry. We will survive limited interchange for the product we sell, which is discriminatingly withheld from us. We will survive COVID-19 and the new normal ahead.

“If you have knowledge, let others light their candles with it.”

ARA is the automotive recycling industry’s eyes, ears, and voice. ARA represents all businesses, including their owners, employees and families that rely on auto recycling to support their way of life. It goes way beyond our members and carries a huge responsibility.

ARA’s duty is to accumulate information and distribute it to the automotive recycling industry. We have stepped up our game during the COVID-19 crisis and will continue to implement new correspondence methods for the future. Check out ARA’s COVID-19 Dashboard (www.a-r-a.org/covid-19-dashboard.html) for all the latest news.

Vince Edivan, ARA’s director of member relations, has communicated through Zoom, Facebook and YouTube with short video updates, webinars and Executive Committee Town Halls (all of which can be seen as recorded videos on our Facebook page). Vince has great ideas, he’ll be promoting and informing our industry in some surprising ways throughout the summer.

Our ARA staff has scoured the news and leaned on resources to prepare and distribute daily COVID-19 email updates. It seems like the world was changing daily, if not hourly, and we wanted to keep everyone informed.

This is ARA’s responsibility and duty for our industry. After that, it is up to individuals to open and read the emails, go to the website, watch the webcasts and EC Town Halls, ask questions, and implement that knowledge into your business model.

“If you are going through Hell, keep going.”

We know that many of you today are struggling to pay bills and keep the doors open. Not every business received the taxpayer PPP assistance money, and those of us who did should be grateful for the life line thrown to us. ARA, through a very generous donation from Car-Part.com, created the ARA COVID-19 Relief Fund. AB CatTech and Rebuilders Automotive Supply quickly stepped up, donating money that triggered matching funds from
Car-Part. Since then, others have donated and today it totals $65,000 – all to benefit auto recyclers and their employees and family. If you have a need, from help paying rent to bringing back a furloughed employee, apply at www.a-r-a.org/ara-covid-relief-fund.html.

Auto recyclers help auto recyclers. Just look at the Professional Salvage Yard Information Facebook Forum, started by Greg Condon, which boasts 2,500 members. I remember when recyclers were combative towards each other, highly protective of their customer base, etc. Today, cooperation is seen through the ARA Mentoring Program, trading partners, cross docks and consulting groups. We ask each other questions and openly answer them. In many cases, we are each other’s best customer.

“I was not the lion, but it fell to me to give the lion’s roar.”

This was not my year to be President of ARA, but the obligation landed on me to take the wheel and steer the ship. Sometimes, the order of events takes a detour and your name is called to step up early. Luckily, the ARA EC is transparent regarding ARA’s direction and industry information so that any team member, be it Jono, Marty or Shan, could have taken the wheel before their planned time. The New England Patriots have a slogan “Next Man Up.” When a team member falls, another takes their place. No player is bigger than the team.

When I joined the EC, I pledged to work every day and give my best representing the Automotive Recycling Industry. Thank you for giving me the opportunity.

It is important to keep up with the regular maintenance needs of your vehicle, but even when you do everything right, things can sometimes go wrong. The best thing you can do is know the signs that something is happening with your vehicle. Here are some signs to watch out for: 

Dashboard Lights

Although signals such as your check engine light could definitely mean there is an actual engine problem, this can also mean that there is something off with the electrical wiring that is causing lights to turn on unecessarily. 

New Noises

If your car is making a new noise, this is cause for concern. Squeaking or whistling can mean there is an issue with your brakes, while a dragging noise could mean something is detached in the undercarriage. If your car is getting increasingly louder, it might be time for a new muffler or exhaust. 

Chugging or Shaking

Chugging can be a sign that something is wrong with your vehicle’s engine. It could also mean that an important oil or fluid is leaking or needs changing. Shaking could point to an issue with your tires, and also opens the possibility of an issue with the power steering. 

Difficulty Starting

When your car takes a couple of tries to get started, it could need a new starter/ignition. If the trouble starting is accompanied by the dimming of lights, your vehicle might also need a battery recharge, or a new one altogether. 

Leaks & Puddles

Be sure to keep an eye on the ground where your regularly park your car to make sure that nothing is leaking. A bright green puddle under your vehicle probably means that you have a coolant leak, while dark brown means an oil leak. Water dripping under your car is no cause for concern, as this is typical for the air conditioning system. 

Regardless of what issue is going on with your car, you are probably looking for the most cost effective method of fixing whatever part is struggling. Buying gently used auto parts from a salvage yard can fix your car just as well as dealer parts. Check out Robertson’s Auto Salvage for quality car parts at great prices!

Just like anything else, cars don’t last forever. As your car ages, it begins to need more frequent repairs and depending on the make, model, and year of your car, you might be spending a lot of time at auto salvage yards looking for the car parts that you need. Two parts you absolutely don’t want to deal with repairing/replacing is your engine and transmission, especially with the high cost associated with them. If for some reason you do have to replace yours, always give a used transmission a try first.

Here are 5 factors to consider when purchasing a used transmission from a salvage yard:

1. Check for Leaks

One of the biggest concerns with a transmission is whether or not it is leaking. Before you make your purchase, check to make sure there are no leaks in the transmission. If you don’t see any, check the transmission fluid levels, add some more and see if any drips out. 

2. Look at the Body of the Car

Look over the body of the vehicle that the transmission is coming from. Do you notice any signs of damage or excessive bodywork? This is a sign that the car was involved in a collision and the transmission could potentially be damaged. If you noticed minor bodywork was done, this won’t be an issue!

3. Bring a Mechanic with You

If you know a mechanic that is willing to go with you to the salvage yard, this will help ensure that you are purchasing a solid transmission. This will make for a smooth, easy process.

4. Check the Warranty

Depending on the salvage yard you go to, they will most likely have a warranty in place. Finding this out will inform you if parts and labor are included. Have this written down so there are no questions in the future.

5. Ask About the History

Not all sellers will have any history about the transmission you are purchasing, but some will so it’s always worth it to ask. If they do have some history, you’ll be able to check out the risk factors before purchasing the new-to-you transmission. You can also run a vehicle history report on CarFax to get more information about the vehicle itself and the transmission/engine.

Need a new transmission for your vehicle? Let us help! Give us a call today at ((800) 551-7000.

Finding a salvage yard is easy but finding one with reliable used auto parts proves to be another story. When you’re in the process of scavenging for the parts you need, keep these factors in mind. 

1. Salvage Yard or Junkyard

Used auto parts can be found at both junkyards and salvage yards and taking the type of junkyard/salvage yard you’re scavenging into consideration will have an effect on the quality of parts you find. Traditionally, salvage yards are for used auto and machinery parts, making them the best place to pull used auto parts from. 

There are also full-service and u-pull salvage yards (we do both!). 

Full-Service Salvage Yard

Full-service salvage yards have a professional that pulls the parts you need from the salvage yard inventory while you wait.

U-Pull-It

A u-pull-it salvage yard is pretty self-explanatory but is the process of the individual (you) going into the salvage yard and searching for and pulling the parts they need on their own.

2. How to Find What You Want 

Depending on the salvage yard you go to, most have some sort of organizational tactic to where the parts are located. If you’re going to a salvage yard for the first time, especially one that u-pull-it, be sure to ask what the process is and how the land is laid out. This will help you find what you need faster!

3. Types of Parts

There are certain types of parts that you should always buy new including belts, hoses, and filters. These are items that deteriorate quickly and it’s better to not have to worry about replacing them in a short period of time. This also goes for breaks! 

All other parts, including engines, transmissions, gauges, interior materials, and more are all fair game and great to purchase at salvage yards!

4. Wear and Tear

Cars and car parts that end up in salvage yards end up there because they’re dead or at the end of their lifespan. If you’re lucky, you’ll find a car that is still in good shape and has extremely reliable parts. When you’re purchasing used car parts from a salvage yard, always be sure to check the wear and tear of the part before purchasing it. If you need help gauging the condition of the part, a team member will be able to help you and will be able to help you find the same part in better condition if need be. 

Interested in purchasing used auto parts from Robertson’s Auto Salvage? Give us a call today at (800) 551-7000 or shop them online. 

The quickest way to lose money on your car is to go to a new car dealership to have someone fix your vehicle. In almost every case, repairs can be done at home at a much lower cost and effort. You can save even more if you source your parts from the right place. Your local auto salvage yard has everything you could need to get your car up and running without breaking the bank. In fact, auto salvage yards save you money in a lot of ways. 

Avoid Unnecessary Repairs

If you’re repairing your car yourself, you are likely familiar with its condition. Doing your own oil changes lets you check out the engine. Fixing your tire pressure keeps you aware of your tread. Even changing headlight bulbs lets you check out your car’s wiring. When you’re checking out your car regularly, you won’t be easily misled. You can avoid unnecessary repairs by learning about your car, and what is necessary or not. 

Save on Labor

By fixing your car on your own, you’re cutting out the middleman. For many small repairs, the majority of the cost is the labor involved in the fix. Instead of paying someone else several hundred dollars for a few hours of work, you can just do the work yourself. That saves you a lot of money right off the bat. 

Fix Small Problems Early

When you’re not afraid of a huge bill, it’s less daunting to get small repairs done. Replacing your own brake pads is much cheaper than getting the whole brake system redone. Similarly, it’s much easier to fix a minor scrape in the paint yourself than to replace a side panel because of rust. By getting parts and fixing things on your own, you can catch things early. That’s going to save you time and money in the long run. 

Get the Same Parts for Cheaper 

You can get the exact same parts your mechanic uses for less at your local auto salvage yard. You don’t have to get the brand-new, name-brand item for it to work perfectly well. Auto salvage yards only sell the best items from the cars they take in. You can check out the part quality first hand, and it will still cost less than a new item. 

Learn New, Helpful Skills

Finally, taking care of your own car can help you help others. Most fixes are just as applicable to your next car as they are to your current car. Fixing things with your hands is always a useful skill. Knowing how to fix your car cheaply and quickly will save you money and time for years to come.  Repairing your car yourself is not just a money-saving tip, it’s a life skill. If you want to repair your car without wasting hours of your life or hundreds of dollars, Robertson’s Auto Salvage is happy to help you find the parts you need to save money and get the job done. Give us a call today to get started on fixing your vehicle for the best price! 800-551-2680

The changing of the seasons can put a lot of stress on your vehicle. After a long winter, every car needs some maintenance, whether it’s basic or more thorough. However, you can take care of pretty much any car maintenance on your own – from oil changes to replacing parts. 

Spring car maintenance involves looking out for particular issues that tend to pop up this time of year. Winter can lead to damage, from rust as a result of road salt to dents and broken lights resulting from accidents on slippery roads. You can maintain your car yourself by sourcing replacement parts for anything winter-damaged from an auto salvage yard. With that in mind, here are some tips for maintaining your car this spring.

Check All Fluids

Cold temperatures are hard on the fluids in your car. Even fluids that don’t freeze, like oil, can congeal and clog up your engine. Check and potentially replace all the fluids in your car. This includes: Oil Water Windshield wiper fluid Antifreeze Oil is particularly important to check. In particularly cold climates, it’s common to change out engine oil in the fall for something designed for lower temperatures. In the summer months, this oil will not work as well, and you may notice engine problems. Changing it back will make sure you’re covered all year round. 

Clean Interior 

You’ve probably tracked lots of winter debris into your car over the cold months. Salt, sand, mud, and snow all stick to shoes and cover the inside of your car. Plus, if you’ve had a cold at all over the winter, those germs may still be lingering in your vehicle.  To get rid of all that junk, give the inside of your car a thorough wipe-down. Take out the floor rugs and shake them out. If they’re particularly bad, you can use carpet shampoo to remove ground-in mud and salt. Vacuum the floors and seats. Your car will remain much nicer to drive for longer if you take care of it annually. 

Wash and Wax

The outside of your car is likely just as dirty as the inside, if not more. Road salt is one of the biggest causes of rust on most cars. This is amplified by the little nicks and scratches your paint job can accumulate from driving on roads covered in salt pellets. Give your car a thorough spring wash and wax to clean off the grime and salt, and it will stay nicer for longer. 

Check Tire Pressure

Tires lose pressure in cold temperatures. Cold air is denser than warm air, so it doesn’t inflate your tires as efficiently. In the spring, check your tire pressure to see whether you need to add more air. Underinflated tires are bad for your gas mileage, so you’re losing money if you don’t check. 

Replace Damaged Parts from Winter Driving 

Did road salt scratch your windshield? Did someone slide into your bumper on black ice? Are your windshield wipers totaled after fighting winter precipitation? Replace these damaged parts as a part of routine spring maintenance. It doesn’t have to be expensive. Just be smart about sourcing your parts – an auto salvage yard is a perfect supplier for most cars.  If you are local to Wareham, MA, Robertson’s Auto Salvage will have the parts you need to make your repairs. With us, you don’t have to worry about markups. You can keep your car looking good as new without paying the price tag of actually new parts. Give us a call today so we can get you what you need this spring! 800-551-2680

Now that the cold winter temperatures are behind us, it’s time to get your car in tip-top shape for the nice weather. And luckily, thanks to the warm spring temperatures, it makes it much easier to make sure your car is ready for the new season. 

Change Oil & Check Fluids

Do you remember when your last oil change was? If it was before winter, it’s way overdue and getting it changed and checking your fluids should be at the top of your to-do list. Ideally, you should be changing your oil every 2,500-5,000 miles. If your fluids are low, the cost to repair any damage to your transmission can cost around $2,500, which no one wants to spend heading into summer!

Check Alignment & Suspension

The potholes in New England can wreak havoc on your alignment and suspension. If you notice your car is pulling to the left or right, take your car in to have it looked over and receive an alignment.

Rotate Tires & Check Air Pressure

The change in temperature can affect the air pressure in your tires, making you more susceptible to flat tires or air bubbles. To be safe, check your air pressure and make any adjustments as well as rotate your tires. 

Don’t remember the last time your tires were rotated? Now is the time to get on a schedule! Plan to rotate your tires every 5,000 miles so they wear evenly.

Inspect Breaks

Having your breaks functioning properly is crucial and when it comes to maintaining your car, you should always be checking your breaks. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this yourself, have a technician check your breaks and pads.

Need new parts to get your car in shape for spring? Give Robertson’s Auto Salvage a call and let us find what you need for the best price.