Creating A Happier Automotive Environment

Exploring Your Options For Replacement Auto Parts

by Katrina Morgan

Even with the best possible maintenance, you will need to replace some of the parts in your vehicle from time to time. When you find yourself in need of car repairs, you will have a few different options for getting the replacement auto parts that you need. Below, you can learn more about these options so that you can choose the option that is best suited to your budget, repair, and quality needs.

New Auto Parts

New auto parts fall into two basic categories, OEM and third-party manufacturer. OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. OEM auto parts are those that are produced by the same company that produced the parts originally used in the manufacturing of your vehicle. Third-party manufactured parts are virtually identical in composition to OEM parts but are manufactured by a different company. Both of these options can typically be found at your local auto parts stores. However, OEM parts will often come with a longer warranty and are guaranteed to provide a perfect fit. Regardless of which type of new auto parts you choose, you can expect to get the best possible warranty when choosing this option. However, you can also expect to pay the highest price when choosing this option. 

Used Auto Parts

Used auto parts are pulled from vehicles that are no longer operational but still have many operational parts. For instance, if a vehicle is totaled as the result of an accident, parts of the vehicle that were not damaged in the accident may be sold to individuals who are in need of replacement parts. The primary advantage to choosing used auto parts is that these parts can be purchased for far less than a brand new part. Purchasing used auto parts can also be beneficial for people who are looking to buy original parts for a vehicle that is no longer in production. Unfortunately, as with all used products, there is no guarantee that used auto parts will have a lot of life left in them. Consequently, it is standard practice for these parts to be sold without a warranty. 

Rebuilt Or Refurbished Auto Parts

Rebuilt and refurbished auto parts strive to combine the benefits offered by new and used auto parts. While these parts are technically used since they have been installed in a vehicle before, they offer the reliability that comes with buying new auto parts since they have been thoroughly inspected and repaired when necessary before being sold. The fact that these parts have been returned to a like-new condition allows sellers to offer a warranty on these parts that do not typically come with used parts. Despite the extra benefits that rebuilt and refurbished parts offer, these parts can still be purchased for a lower price than brand new parts. That makes this option especially beneficial when replacing major components such as your engine or transmission. 

For more information, contact an auto parts store near you.

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