When replacement car parts are needed, what’s the best value: salvage parts, aftermarket parts or rebuilt auto parts?
Choosing the best option for replacement car parts largely depends on the value that’s received versus the price being paid. Depending on the types of parts purchased, there can be a huge difference in the reliability and costs between salvage parts, aftermarket parts and rebuilt auto parts. This article discusses the differences in terms of quality, reliability and cost of the various types of auto parts.
Using salvage parts is definitely an inexpensive alternative to new or rebuilt car parts. Used parts may be a reliability gamble since the parts are used and have already accumulated wear. Salvage parts may not last as long as new or rebuilt parts. Depending on the component, there’s also the question of how well the previous car owner maintained his vehicle.
New aftermarket auto parts are usually manufactured without the approval of car manufacturers. Generally, aftermarket replacement car parts are less expensive than car factory parts. Aftermarket car parts can be a gamble.
Rebuilt or remanufactured auto parts can be a cheaper alternative when it comes to expensive major components. Complete assemblies like a remanufactured engine or remanufactured transmission can carry a better warranty then a new assembly. In some cases, rebuilt car parts may have a higher quality factors than new parts because of more thorough testing procedures. In most cases the old part must be exchanged for the rebuilt part or an extra charge will be incurred.
When car replacement parts are needed, the car owner should look at the cost versus the value of each type of auto part. Sometimes, an Original Equipment Manufacturer part may be cheaper than an aftermarket part. Find out the difference in warranty of each type of car part and weight it against the cost. Research can save some money in the short term and, possibly, in the long run.