When your vehicle breaks down, having the money to purchase new parts is often a struggle, especially if you are on a budget. There are options available to find parts at discounted rates. Of course, you could look for someone in your local area parting out a vehicle similar to yours, but that is often a long shot. You should probably consider the option of purchasing self-serve used auto parts.
Lower Price
Used auto parts are a much lower cost than new. In most cases, salvage yards pay rents or mortgages on spaces, plus there are costs for utilities and payroll for staff. Opening the self-serve auto parts option allows them to recover some of the costs associated with operating the business and having the lot. They do earn funds from scrap metal once a vehicle’s viable parts inventory is depleted.
Parting out vehicles allows the parts to be at a lower cost, especially if you are pulling them from the vehicle yourself.
Find Other Needed Parts
When you need more than one part, a salvage yard or used parts lot is often the best option. While it may not all be available on one, single vehicle, there are often several available. The more common a vehicle is in your local area, the more likely you are to find the parts needed to repair yours. Using the self-service option, you can pick and choose the best looking or most intact parts yourself rather than taking whatever used part is given to you at a mechanic that uses used parts.
OEM Parts
You won’t have to look for off-brand or non-OEM parts if you pull them yourself. In most cases, stock parts are still in the vehicle or any replacements are likely to be factory direct. Unless a vehicle has been modified to contain custom parts, more often than not, model matching items can be found.
It is important to use OEM parts for vehicles whenever possible. These parts have been specially made for that particular auto. While used OEM parts are not guaranteed to work, they will be the right fit for the vehicle.
Multiple Autos to Choose From
At self-serve auto parts locations there are often several vehicles of the same make and model available. Some auto parts are interchangeable between a couple of model years and sometimes parts from one make can be used on another. The additional selection of vehicles makes it more convenient.
Emergencies happen and cars break when it’s the most inconvenient of times. When you can’t afford brand new parts, consider the self-serve options that are nearby. You’re likely to find the parts you need, in working order for less than half of the cost of new parts. Most self-serve locations charge an entry or admission fee. It is only a few dollars but it helps to cover the costs of running the lot and for the theft of tiny parts, which does happen. Make sure to take your own tools to remove the parts you need, tools are not provided for customers.