This mostly pertains to body parts that are seen on the outside. While a part might fit perfectly, it may not be the right color and it may be difficult, if not impossible, to paint or stain it so that it matches. While some may not be worried about this, for others this would be a deal breaker.
Another option which will take a little leg work on your part is to get on your feet and walk to the nearest local dealer. You could ride a cab if you like. You’re going to canvass for the prices. When you’ve done that and have gone over to your local dealer, be sure to leave your wallet or check book behind. You’re not there to buy – yet. Just look around. For most people, this is the best part (or maybe the second best) in buying a car. Used auto search may sound unglamorous but having an idea of what you want and how much it costs ramps up the excitement for some people I know.
Even if you don’t know what the part is or what it belongs to, feel free to bring it to the recycling center. Even if the part is no use, the metal that it is made of could be valuable. In most cases, it makes sense to bring in all of the parts that you have that you know you don’t need anymore. Someone at the facility will be able to take a look at what you have and let you know what can be turned in.
Pay off your loan. If you still owe money to a lender for your clunker, you’ll need to pay off your clunker first. Once your car is paid off, you’ll then have the title. No junk yard will take your car unless you possess a clear title.
When you finish the body inspection, note the tires. Do they have decent tread? How old are they? How about a spare? You want to know if a spare is included and if it is, inspect it as well. You want to know if you will need to be buying new tires after you buy the vehicle.
Most salvage companies have “hot lines” that connect them with other companies. These are used to transfer information, such as requests for specific car parts. That means that you don’t have to hop from junker near me to salvage yard in search of your car parts. You can simply check out a single salvage yard. If they don’t have what you’re looking for, they’re likely to find it from another dealer via the hot line.
Used car parts usually cost much less than new ones. For example, the top frame of a late model convertible may cost over $2,000 if you buy the part new. But, that same part can be purchased used for as little as $700. One of the reasons for the difference in price is that new parts often need to be assembled. used auto parts are already assembled and simply need to be installed on – or in – your vehicle.
There is security in numbers, so you may wish to have a family member or friend stay with you for the day. Yard sales tend to be the busiest in the early hours, and an extra pair of hands and eyes will come in handy with keeping a watch out for theft and assisting your customers.
