One of the major misconceptions of used auto parts is that they are old, dirty, and past their sell-by date. No one would want those, right? But that’s not the case with legitimate sellers of used car parts for everything from shocks and alternators to used engines and transmissions. Buying used auto parts from reputable dealers like LKQ Online takes the worry out of shopping for used parts for your car, truck, Jeep, or SUV. Here are five excellent reasons to choose used vehicle parts when auto repairs are needed.
One: Cost savings
Used auto parts are always significantly less costly than new parts, especially OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or OE (original equipment) dealer-sold parts. Used parts are generally less expensive than remanufactured parts and new aftermarket parts as well.
Two: Get genuine OEM parts at affordable prices
With a used OEM/OE part, you get the exact original part that you’re replacing, with confidence of perfect fit, function, and seamless installation. Buying a used engine or alternator from a very low mileage salvaged vehicle can get pretty close to purchasing a new OEM part! New cars become “used” once they leave the dealership so you could conceivably find a necessary part from a gently used car with just a few thousand miles of wear, basically, a like-new part for a lot less money.
Three: Reputable sellers ONLY sell reliable parts
Whether you shop for used auto parts online or in a local shop, do your homework and make sure the seller is trustworthy. Read multiple reviews of other customers and double check their warranty and return policies. Anyone who won’t give some sort of guarantee should be avoided unless you’re at an “as-is” junkyard where you take responsibility for selecting and salvaging your own part. Legitimate parts dealers know their inventory, with all used parts inspected and graded before inclusion in catalogs or online inventories. Information available to you about a part should include the source vehicle, part number, fitment to specific makes and models, and even the VIN number to double check compatibility.
Four: Restore classic and performance vehicles
For older cars that automakers no longer support with branded replacement parts, used parts can be the only option to restore vintage and classic cars or trucks. This is important for classic cars to maintain their value by replacement OEM parts to keep them as originally made. Used parts and rebuilt or remanufactured parts are sometimes the only option for making repairs and restoration of older vehicles with hard-to-find parts. Likewise, new replacement parts for performance cars loved for more powerful engines, superior speed and agility can be overly pricey. Buying used auto parts can make maintaining your specialty vehicle more affordable without sacrificing superior quality.
Five: Unlimited inventories to search
Especially with online sellers, the potential for finding exactly the used part you need far exceeds what can be offered by a local dealer. For example, LKQ Online has over 200 parts facilities nationwide with extensive inventory of used car parts for all makes and models. Searching by year, make, model, and VIN number you can quickly access those parts that are compatible with your car or truck. Within that defined inventory you can refine your search even further by selecting acceptable mileage (wear use) of the donor vehicle and price range to save time and stay within your repair budget.
Trust LKQ Online for high-quality used auto parts
Whether you DIY auto repair and maintenance or have a trusted neighborhood mechanic, LKQ Online is your one source for used OEM/OE auto parts and accessories you can rely on for collision repair and mechanical replacement parts for your vehicle such as alternators, brakes, hoods, and bumpers. Most auto parts have free shipping* with a 30-day return policy and standard six-month or 6,000-mile warranty on used parts. (As-is, no warranty/no return parts include airbags, seat belts, and tires.)
*Excluding large or oversized items (motors, transmissions, seats, wheels, bumpers, and tires) that ship via LTL Freight Carriers.