Wrecking yards are a goldmine for parts if you need to repair, restore or modify your vehicle. Whether you’re a pro mechanic or a DIYer, understanding how wrecking yard parts work can save you time, money and stress. This guide will take you through the process of finding, selecting and getting the right wrecking yard parts for you.
Wrecking Yard Parts
Wrecking yards (also known as salvage yards) have a treasure trove of parts from vehicles that have been written off or damaged. These parts are usually in great condition as they are pulled out before the vehicle is crushed, making them a cost effective option for all sorts of repair and restoration projects.
The process of finding these parts can vary from yard to yard. Smaller yards may have a small staff or one owner, while bigger salvage businesses have more resources and computer systems to track inventory.
When buying parts, be aware of the risks that come with used parts. These parts may have pre-existing problems so make sure to inspect the part and its surroundings before buying.
Also, the time it takes to find and pull parts from the yard can be considerable. Distance to the yard, time to research what you need and cost of the job vs cost of new parts should be weighed before deciding to use salvaged parts.
But the cost savings of using salvaged parts can be big. In the total collision repair market, only 5% is spent on used parts.
Understanding wrecking yard components and how to use them can save you big on repair and restoration projects. But be aware of the risks and challenges that come with using salvaged parts.
Wrecking Yard Parts
Wrecking yards have a multitude of components that serve different purposes and are used on different types of vehicles. These parts include engines, transmissions, drivetrains, suspension systems and body parts. Each of these components plays a unique role in a vehicle and understanding them will help you make informed decisions when sourcing parts for your project.
Engines are the heart of any vehicle, they generate power and move the vehicle forward. They come in different sizes and configurations and the quality of the engine can affect the performance of the vehicle. Engines can be sourced from wrecking yards and refurbished to improve their running quality making them a cost effective option for many projects.
Transmissions on the other hand transmit the power generated by the engine to the wheels of the vehicle. They come in manual and automatic and will depend on your project requirements.
Drivetrains are another important component of a vehicle, connecting the engine to the wheels. They come in different configurations, front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The choice of drivetrain will depend on the vehicle you are working on and the vehicle you are trying to replicate.
Suspension systems are vital for vehicle stability and comfort. They come in different configurations, independent, dependent and coil spring. The choice of suspension system will depend on the vehicle you are working on and the vehicle you are trying to replicate.
Body parts include the frame and body panels, doors, windows and other exterior components. These parts can come from different vehicles so you have a lot of options for your project.
Knowing the function of each part in a wrecking yard will help you make informed decisions when sourcing parts for your project. By knowing the purpose of each part you can make sure you’re getting the right parts for your needs and goals.
How to Choose the Right Wrecking Yard Parts
Choosing the right wrecking yard parts for your project involves understanding your vehicle’s specific needs and comparing different parts to find the best fit. Here’s how:
1. Know Your Vehicle
Before you start sourcing auto parts, you need to know your vehicle’s needs. This means knowing your vehicle’s make, model and year and any modifications or repairs you plan to do. This is crucial so you can make sure the parts you choose will meet your vehicle’s needs and improve its performance.
2. Research Different Parts
Researching different components will help you understand how they work, compatibility and cost. This will not only increase your knowledge of each part but also help you identify potential issues or problems that may arise from using a particular part.
3. Compare Prices and Quality
When comparing prices and quality of parts from different wrecking yards make sure you’re getting the best value for your money. This means evaluating the cost of parts and their condition to see if they’re the best bang for your buck.
Many wrecking yards have parts similar to what you can find in an auto parts store but at a much lower price. Some parts can be up to 80% cheaper than the new ones. But remember these parts are not new and may not have a warranty.
When buying parts from a wrecking yard bring the part that needs to be replaced with you. This way you can practice removing the part and make sure you get the exact right part you need.
Plus some wrecking yards like LKQ Pick Your Part have a huge inventory of vehicles that are refreshed daily so you can find the part you need across different years, makes and models.
While buying parts from a wrecking yard is a cost effective solution, make sure to compare prices and assess the quality of the parts to get the best value for your money.
4. Check the Part’s Condition
Quality of the part is key. Make sure to get parts that are spotless, rust free and no visible damage. If possible ask to inspect the part before you buy.
Where to Find Wrecking Yard Parts
Finding wrecking yard parts can be tricky as they’re not advertised in traditional ways. But here are some places you can look:
1. Online Marketplaces
Online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon are a great place to sell wrecking yard parts. These platforms have a huge audience so it’s easier for potential buyers to compare prices and quality of parts from different sellers.
eBay for example has global reach so sellers can access millions of customers worldwide. The platform is user friendly so sellers can list products and view inventory easily.
On the other hand Amazon is the world’s most trusted online marketplace with a huge buyer base and strong brand image. The platform also has Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) where sellers can store their products in Amazon’s warehouse and save on storage costs and get fast shipping.
But selling on these platforms has its own challenges. Both eBay and Amazon have high listing and selling fees which can be a big cost for small retailers. Plus the competition is fierce with sellers fighting for the lowest price position.
Despite the challenges it’s worth selling on these platforms. The ability to reach a huge audience, global shipping and the trust of the platform makes it an attractive option to sell wrecking yard parts. Plus by having clear and detailed listings sellers can reduce customer support and returns and improve feedback and overall customer satisfaction.
Online marketplaces like eBay and Amazon are a great place to sell wrecking yard parts. By knowing the strengths and weaknesses of the platform sellers can maximize sales and customer satisfaction.
2. Local Wrecking Yards
Local wrecking yards are a great source of vehicle parts especially when you’re looking for a specific part for a particular make or model. But make sure to negotiate a fair price and inspect the part thoroughly before you buy.
When shopping at a local wrecking yard make sure to know the market value of the part you’re looking for. This will help you ensure the price they offer is fair. If you don’t like the price don’t be afraid to walk away. This shows the seller you’re serious about getting a good deal and you’re not afraid to look elsewhere.
Before you buy make sure to have a trusted mechanic inspect the part. This will help you determine if the part is good and suitable for your vehicle. Also reputable wrecking yards will pay you by check or money order. If a wrecking yard offers to pay you in cash it’s a sign they’re not a legitimate business.
When shopping at a local wrecking yard make sure you have a clear idea of what you’re looking for. This will help you navigate the yard more efficiently and find the parts you need faster. If you’re not sure what you need don’t be afraid to ask the staff. They usually know the parts they sell and can give you valuable information.
Local wrecking yards are a great source of vehicle parts. But make sure to do your research, negotiate a fair price and have a trusted mechanic inspect the part before you buy. This will ensure you get a good deal and the part is suitable for your vehicle.
3. Online Forums and Communities
Online forums and communities is a treasure trove of information to find wrecking yard parts. Websites like AutoZone and CarPartCatalog which are popular among car enthusiasts not only provides valuable information but also a platform to connect with other enthusiasts and professionals in the industry.
AutoZone a retail chain has an online platform that offers auto parts, accessories, tools and fluids. The website has guides, repair information and in-store pickup options making it convenient for customers.
CarPartCatalog is a comprehensive platform for professional repairers and insurers. It has part fitment and interchangeability since 2000 so it’s a reliable source of parts.
Besides these there are other online communities like Facebook groups for specific car makes and models. These groups have become a great source of parts, a real-time platform to buy and sell.
Also websites like RockAuto, NAPA, CARiD, 1A Auto, Crown Classic Auto Parts, Crown Auto Parts & Rebuilding are a great resource to find wrecking yard parts.
In summary online forums and communities are not just sources of information but also a platform to network and trade. They are a great resource to find wrecking yard parts and can help you in your part search.
Conclusion
Wrecking yard parts can be a cost effective and efficient way to repair or restore your vehicle. By knowing the types of parts available, how to choose the right parts and where to find them you can save time and money on your next repair or restoration project. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast this guide can help you navigate the world of wrecking yard parts and find the parts you need.