Picking parts from an auto salvage yard can save you hundreds of dollars on your vehicle repairs & upgrades. Not only will you get good deals on parts. But, you will also learn about the vehicles you are working on by searching for and removing parts for your own car. Anyone serious about working on their car needs to visit a salvage yard.

What are some tips for visiting an auto salvage yard?

The main focus of visiting an auto salvage yard is the discount on parts. Given that the parts are used, you need to know what you are looking for and be able to gauge the use and quality of a piece. Also, bring your tools with you and be ready for your salvage trip with a plan of what you need. Finally, wearing protective clothing like machine gloves and eyewear can protect you from sharp or rusted parts. Check out more tips from the experts at Robertson’s Auto Salvage to make the most out of your salvage yard trip! 

Have The Right Tools

You should bring a toolbox with a lot of different size options and tools in it. The most commonly needed tools for an auto salvage yard run are cutting tools to get access to parts and wrenches for removing components. If you’re replacing a part in your vehicle, make sure you are getting the right fit by removing the old part from your car first and then making sure the tools you use to remove the new part at the salvage yard are the same fit! 

Dress For Protection

Because a salvage yard is basically just a field of rusted old cars you get to dig through, you will want protection from sharp or rusted parts that could potentially puncture or cut you. Mechanics’ gloves are a must for keeping your knuckles protected and giving you that extra grip for pulling parts that seemed to be welded to the junker with age. Also, having proper eye protection can defend against shrapnel that could fly from rusted junkers. 

Bring Backup

In the case that you feel like you are getting in over your head, bring backup. A friend who knows cars is a godsend in an auto salvage yard. Plus, they may even be able to negotiate a better deal for the parts!

Call Ahead

A rookie mistake is assuming that the salvage yard you want to go to has the parts you need. A salvage yard’s selection depends on which parts they have recently received. When you call, ask for the same make and model of the car you are trying to fix. If they don’t have it, try another salvage yard or ask them for a recommendation! 

Pulling parts from junkers in an auto salvage yard can save you a lot of money. But the cars on salvage yards are potentially in rough shape and may need cutting tools or other tools to remove stubborn parts from. Also, wearing protective gear will keep you from getting injured during your salvage trip. This is especially true if you are looking for more substantial pieces that are had to access within the vehicle. Have fun, and try to plan out precisely what you need to save yourself from making multiple trips. For the best selection of used parts in the Southshore, give Robertson’s Auto Salvage a call today! 800-551-2680