It’s not pleasant to discover that your car needs a new component. We rely on our vehicles so we don’t want them to be off the road. If you need to replace a part, you may feel that you must choose between buying expensive new parts or cheap parts which might not be suitable or safe for your car. There is a third option – car wreckers yards. You may imagine standing in rusty metal or looking up at cars piled like Jenga. Breakers yards are a great alternative for manufacturers and scrap yards if you know how to use a toolbox.

Here are 10 tips to help you make the most of your first visit to a car wreckers yard.

1. Why buy used parts rather than going to a dealer?

It can be expensive to buy a new part directly from the manufacturer, but it will give you peace of mind that the parts are genuine and reliable. This depends on the vehicle you have and the part you require. Many used car parts still work and are much cheaper than new ones. You can benefit from the peace of mind that comes with buying a brand-new part.

2. What is the difference between a scrapyard and a breakers’ yard?

There are many parts from old cars in scrap yards, as well as household appliances, pipes and other metals. The items are a mix ‘n match and can be hard to find, let alone in good condition.

The parts are laid out in a more logical and organised way at breaker yards. This makes it easier to locate the part you need. These parts will be better quality than the ones in junkyards or scrap yards. It’s necessary to remove the majority of parts yourself. However, if you can, it is worth the effort to obtain the parts that you need. Ask a friend with experience in cars to help you if you are unsure how to remove the part.

3. All the cars are damaged?

Although the cars in the wreckers’ yards may be damaged, that does not mean the parts within them are bad. If you need to replace a right side wing mirror on a car that has been damaged left-handed, it will still work. A car that appears to have been through wars from the outside might still contain many salvageable interior parts. This is especially true when dealing with reputable car dismantlers in auckland, who ensure that parts are properly inspected and salvaged for reuse.

4. How can you be sure that the part is exactly what you need?

You need to first know what you’re looking for in order to find the correct part for your vehicle. Knowing the part number can help you to ensure that you are pulling the correct part for your car. Research before you go to the yard to ensure you know what parts will fit your vehicle.

5. How can you identify a high-quality car part?

When you find the part that you are looking for, inspect it visually to determine its quality. You may see visible signs of wear such as rust, or even leaks. This may indicate that you need to try a different part. The part you are assessing for damage will determine how you do it. You can look for a problem that is common to your car model. Do your research again before you come so you’re as well informed as you can be about any possible problems specific to your vehicle or the part you need. It is also possible that the type of damage to the car will indicate whether or not the part in question has been damaged.

6. Genuine parts or not?

You can save money by buying car parts from a wreckers yard because you will be pulling them out yourself. You will know exactly where the parts came from, and they are made to fit that particular model.

7. What are the tools you will need?

Read the rules before you arrive at the yard to ensure that your tools are allowed. Power tools may not be allowed.

8. What parts of a car can you take out at a wreckers yard?

You should not remove some car parts yourself. You may have to purchase parts like the engine or battery separately, or ask someone at the yard to remove it for you.

9. How much time will you need?

Be sure to check the hours of operation for the yard. You might not be able to remove and find all the parts before the yard closes if you arrive late.

10. Is it safe to use?

Safety is generally good at Breakers Yards, but you should read all safety rules before visiting and use common sense. Don’t remove any of the safety gear provided, like high-visibility vests.

You can get quality parts at a good price to save money and repair your car quickly. The cars are arranged so you can find what you need quickly, check the damage and safely remove the damaged parts. You may find that after your first visit, the wreckers yard will be your first stop for any future parts needs. Enjoy your hunt!