When you need to get a part for your car, it is important to consider if you need to buy it in new or used condition. There are many people who think that buying a part in used condition automatically means that it will not last as long as a new part will, but that is not the case at all. There are many great parts that are still in very usable condition that can be found at a salvage yard. The following guide walks you through a few tips for finding the perfect part for your car.
Know Specifics About Your Car and the Part
Before you even head to the salvage yard, you need to know specifics about your vehicle so that the attendant at the yard can quickly let you know if they have any vehicles on the lot that will work for you. Know the year, make, and model of your car when you go to the yard. You also need to know what part you need to get. You may want to bring the old part with you so that you can compare it to the new part before making your final purchase.
Properly Prepare for the Trip to the Salvage Yard
You need to take the time to properly prepare for the salvage yard before you head there. Wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty. Bring tools with you to take the part out of the vehicle at the yard, and bring someone with you who knows what they are doing, if you do not. Some salvage yards allow their attendants to pull parts for you, but not all do, so it is best to be prepared.
Know Which Parts to Avoid
When you go to the salvage yard, it is important to know which parts are salvageable and which are not. If the part you are considering pulling is in a vehicle that has been in an accident, do not pull it if the part is located in the portion of the car that was damaged in the accident. Even if it looks fully intact, it could still be damaged. Avoid any parts that are covered in rust as well, as they may not work properly.
After you pull the part, you can pay for it and take it to your mechanic. He or she will be able to clean it and install it in your car for you quickly and easily.