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Things You Should Know About Buying Used Car Parts
By Richard A Jones
The recent introduction of the governments scrap scheme means scrap has become big business and presents many opportunities for owners looking to pick up cheap parts. The large influx of vehicles coming into scrap yards means that the availability of used parts is plentiful and prices are extremely competitive.


Traditionally used parts have come from specialist dealers and scrap yards however with the introduction of the internet and in particular Ebay this has quickly changed. The ability to re-sell used parts online without regulation has become frighteningly too easy which means you could end up with unsafe and potentially lethal parts. As the number of sellers grows potential purchasers have to become much savvier when coming to buy parts.

Where To Buy

When purchasing used parts buyer have two options. They can either purchase the parts in one of the many online auction and ecommerce sites or go to a specialist dealer like a scrap yard. Both options are very different in nature and present different opportunities.

Scrap yards and specialist dealers give buyers the opportunity to see an item before they purchase it. This allows them to check the parts for damage and clearly read the identification numbers. Buyers can also hand over the money in person which means they can be sure that the seller receives it. Scrap yards will also have the proper documentation on site which means you can be sure that you receive it. These small things instil confidence in a buyer and the reason as to why so many still prefer to make purchases

offline. One of the main drawbacks to buying through such places is convenience. Buyers have to take the time to visit the seller and prices are often cheaper online.

Ebay and other online stores offer excellent prices and often have the exact parts you require. The ability to quickly search for and pay for a part makes online stores extremely attractive. Most online auction sites have checks in place to help prevent fraud and in most cases people experience good things on these sites. However regulations online are not as tight meaning that people can easily sell you fake goods or defraud you of your money.

Both options have pros and cons but wherever you decide to make your purchase you should consider some basic things.

What You Should Look For When Buying Used Parts

- part identification numbers. Always check to see if a part has the right identification numbers. There are a number of online sites which allow you to do background checks on vehicles and parts.

- Consider the location of the person selling the part. If a part is coming from another country then do your research. Regulations over there might be different to the ones in your country.

- Documentation. Make sure your part comes with the relevant documentation. Don’t accept parts without them.

- Research the seller. If they have lots of negative or suspicious feedback then chances are it’s not a good place to buy from.

Experiences of buying used parts are in most cases very positive however it's always worth doing your home work and checking your sources.
Richard A Jones has been in the used car parts and scrap business for over 20 years and owns the car salvage specialists Metro Salvage ltd.