Essential questions you need to ask to ensure you purchase high-quality second-hand car parts for your vehicle.

Accidents happen when you least expect it, such as reversing out of your driveway and knocking off your sideview mirror.

Or, accidentally colliding with a stationary object and smashing your headlight.

This happens far more often than you’d expect. In fact, collision with a stationary object is one of Australia’s top leading types of road accidents.

The next step is to find the most cost-effective solution that’s going to get your car up and running in the fastest time possible.

When it comes to finding the best quality part for your vehicle, you have a couple of options.

The most obvious choice would be to take it to the dealership or your mechanic and let them take care of the rest.

This is usually followed by a whopping repair bill because they’ve used brand new OEM parts.

Your other option to consider is buying second-hand car parts.

We understand not everyone is comfortable with buying 4×4 spare parts in Perth. To be completely honest, there is a certain stigma behind buying anything second hand.

Is it safe? How long will it last? Is it reliable? How’s the quality compared to a new 4wd part?

This is why it’s important to ask the right questions before purchasing used car parts. With the right questions in mind, you may end up saving a small fortune.

Here are the questions you should be asking before buying a used car part.

Are you buying from a reputable source?

These days, with so many avenues to explore you can find used car parts just about anywhere online. Whether it’s your local wrecker or online resources including Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, eBay. However, with plenty of counterfeits available on the market, it’s best to make sure you are purchasing from a reputable and trusted source.

Do you know what part you need?

If you’re unsure on the part you need, don’t hesitate to ask your mechanic or speak to a professional. This way you can prevent any unnecessary delays and costs on purchasing the wrong part and having to cop a small fee from the supplier. Have your vehicle’s make, model and year ready to go.

Do you have your VIN number ready?

Unfortunately, not all parts are compatible with all car makes, models and years. To save yourself the hassle of having to return a part, find out what your VIN number is, the right part for your car (if possible) and have it ready for the seller.

What is the history of the part?

For the most part, getting the history of a used car part can be near-impossible. There’s no easy way to tell if the parts you are purchasing have been involved in an accident or the remaining lifespan. However, you can improve chances of getting a high-quality used part by purchasing it from a credible local supplier who is capable of giving you the history and expected lifespan.

Is there a return policy?

Before purchasing any used car part, make sure to ask the store about their return policies. Most trusted sellers will offer a return policy for exchanges or a change in circumstances.

Is there a warranty and how long?

This is an absolute must. Always ask about the warranty and how long does it last for. Most reputable sellers usually offer a warranty or at least the option to purchase one.

If you’re not too familiar with automotive parts, it pays to bring a trusted mechanic along with you, or at the very least get in contact with. If you don’t have access to a mechanic, you can always contact your trusted local spare parts supplier or 4wd wreckers.

Author Bio

Julia is a professional digital marketer who in her spare time is a blogger for a few companies in the automative industry such as Perth 4WD Centre, Perth’s best place for 4WD parts