5 Best Auto Parts To Purchase Used Instead of New

I am sure you are aware that you can purchase used auto parts, but the question is...do you buy used?  Most people are aware of this money saving opportunity, but just don't take the advice and pay extra money for a new part when a used part would work just as well.  Another HUGE benefit of buying a used auto part is the GREEN effect.  Buying recycled / refurbished items helps us do our part in the GREEN initiative!

I have compiled a list of car parts you should be purchasing used. Now this list is for beginners.  The items I have listed are fairly easy to install, even for the novice do it your-selfer and are common parts that most cars need replacing at some point.  You can save money buying pretty much any part used, but you have to ask yourself if you are prepared to install it yourself.  Most mechanic shops will not install used parts, so be prepared to install them yourself.  Again, this list is a compliation of EASY do-it-yourself parts that you will most likely have to replace at sometime in owning a vehicle.

1.  Key Fobs.  Have you lost your keyless entry remote?  A dealer will charge you on average $150 for one of these little key fobs.  You can purchase a used OEM key fob replacement from  Keyless Entry Remote Inc for an average of $25.  Those are huge savings!  And most key fobs can be self programmed in less than 5 minutes.

2.  Wheels.  If you bent a rim, or scratched one up on a curb, don't buy these new.  For newer vehicles they can run $400!  Used wheels start at $30 from any salvage yard.

3.  Side Mirrors.  This really goes for any minor exterior item on your vehicle.  New mirrors or side markers are very easy to install and most can be done in your driveway.  

4.  Heater/AC Controls.  These little buggers go out all the time, and instead of buying a whole new dash component (which most dealers will want you to do), opt for buying the knobs.  Even if you have to buy the entire dash component, it will be a fraction of what you will pay for a new one.

5.  Factory Radio.  Now you can probably buy a new aftermarket radio pretty reasonable, but if you want to replace a factory radio, definitely buy this used.

Now there are plenty of other used auto parts that you can purchase from a local salvage yard or this new thing called the "internet".  Hopefully this list gets you thinking "the next time you go buy something for your car, maybe I should buy used"