If you are fixing up an old car or need to replace a part on your newer car, you are likely in the market for used auto parts. Used auto parts are an excellent way to repair cars because they allow you to use original parts and save money. If you are getting used auto parts, check out these five tips to help you get the most out of your money.

Collect Necessary Information

Before you start shopping, know what you need. Not only does this include the year, make, and model of the car, but it also includes the exact specifications of the old part. When shopping for used auto parts, you may not find an identical, original part. Instead, you may need to find something similar from another model or make. Make sure to gather information about the seller too. For example, some auto parts sellers, especially independent sellers, may not offer refunds. Therefore, if the part doesn't fit, you're out of money.

Look Online

There are many ways you can find used auto parts online. One of the easiest ways is by finding an online used auto parts store. These stores usually have access to parts from all over the country, giving them a big selection. However, they can also be expensive. Another option is to find a private seller from an online auction site, selling site, or even a forum. The benefit of buying online from a private seller is that you may be able to get a better deal, especially if you are the only person interested in the part. Private sellers are also more open to negotiation because they want to get rid of the part. On the downside, however, private sellers aren't businesses, so you can't rely on them to sell you a quality part or offer a refund.

Visit a Local Auto Junkyard

An auto junkyard is an excellent option to find cheap used parts, including OEM Saab parts. If you aren't afraid to get your hands dirty, some junkyards have you go find your own part. You'll likely need to search for the part, but most junkyards have the items organized in some fashion so you know where to start looking. Other junkyards don't let customers look for parts themselves. You tell them what you want, and they find it for you. This way, you don't have to get dirty or waste time hunting for a part. However, you usually pay more for parts at these junkyards because the employees are doing more work for you.

Consider Finding a Donor Car

Instead of just finding a part, consider getting a donor car. You can find donor cars at junkyards or from personal sellers. Donor cars are usually cheap because they are simply used to recycle their parts. Depending on the type of car, of course, some may be more expensive than others. A donor car is a good option if you are fixing up an old car or working on a car that needs a lot of repairs. You'll save money overall by just getting a car to cannibalize instead of buying the parts one at a time. However, if you only need one or two parts, a donor car is likely a waste of money. Donor cars also need some place to be stored, whether at your house or in a storage unit.

Consider Buying Generic Parts

If you are repairing a car, you don't have to get used original parts. You can get generic parts, but finding a high-quality part can be hit or miss. While many generic manufacturers create high-quality products, others are a waste of money or may even cause further damage to your car. In fact, if the car manufacturer can prove the generic part caused further damage, your warranty may be voided. If you do choose to get new generic parts, research customer reviews to find products comparable in quality to original parts.

Fixing up an old car or doing some repairs yourself can be incredibly rewarding, but finding the parts can be difficult and expensive. With these five tips, you're sure to find the parts you need with ease. For more information about used auto parts, contact a junkyard in your area to see if they offer what you need.

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