The Difference Between New & Used Car Parts

A customer asked me not too long ago what the difference was between new and used car parts. I thought it was fairly obvious what the difference was but when I started thinking about it, perhaps there is a deciding factor for those that are unsure on what to buy - new or used. So I decided to look at the differences, including the pros and the cons of each.

New Car Parts:

Pros:

• There is normally a guarantee that the new parts will work especially if they are OEM parts, this is normally a much longer guarantee than on second hand parts.
• Brand new parts can normally easily be sourced from the original parts manufacturer or from a store, you do not have to search for it.
• These parts can normally be seen and ordered in the store or showroom or dealership.

Cons:

• They are normally nearly always double the price of a second hand, used part.
• Some parts may have to be 'worn in' to the car, like a new pair of shoes! 

Used Car Parts:

Pros: 

• For a used part, you would be paying an extremely low price in comparison.
• Used parts can work just as good as new parts.
• Some car spare shops (such as us, for example) have warranty's on all parts, so if anything does go wrong you are covered.
• If you are on a tight budget, a used car part will not break your bank account in comparison.

Cons:

• Unless you already have a reliable supplier of used car parts for your specific vehicle you could have a bit of a search on your hands to find a supplier for your car.
• Used parts are normally a lot dirtier than new parts, don't expect them to have a sleek, shiny finish. They may have oil on them, scuffs, scratches and scrapes.
• Photos of the parts are not always available. 
• They might not work as well or for as long as a new part would. 
• The warranty may be considerably less time than on a new part as they would likely have the original factory manufacturers guarantee.

If you are struggling to find a used car part and you have a Ford, firstly take a look at our online store to see if we can help you get the part you need, or call us on 01782205511.

Or you can use some of the quote compare websites that are available for you to use, all you have to do is type in your vehicle registration, the part you need and suppliers will contact you with their quotes.

Here are some we have found:

www.1stchoice.co.uk

www.carsparefinder.co.uk

www.partsgateway.co.uk

www.247spares.co.uk