10 Car Parts You Should Always Buy Used & 10 That Should Always Be New
Where Is It Safe To Save?
When it comes to car repairs, knowing where you should splurge on a new part or save some money buying used can make a huge difference to your wallet and your safety. While some parts like rims, wheels, and doors can easily be bought second-hand, other components that play a large role in your safety or your car's performance should never be compromised. Here are 10 car parts you should always score used and 10 you should never cut corners on.
1. Body Panels
New body panels can be astoundingly expensive. They don't need to be brand new because there are no moving parts that wear down with time, and a used one from the same make and model is likely to fit better than an aftermarket replacement.
2. Mirrors
Side mirrors are another item that can be shockingly expensive new. Used ones are a fraction of the price and are often just as good as brand new.
3. Rims & Wheels
Rims and wheels can easily be replaced with used ones as long as you know what to look for. Brand new rims can cost thousands, and used ones, as long as they're in good shape, will last as long as brand new. Used markets are full of discontinued or limited-edition rims and wheels that might not even be available new anymore.
4. Doors
Buying car doors second-hand is a huge cost-saver as long as there's no rust or dents. Sometimes you can even score a door that's already painted in the original factory color, saving you even more.
5. Lights
With age, taillights and headlights will need replacing due to normal wear and tear, scratched lenses, and water damage. If you manage to find lights from a matching model, they're usually plug-in ready, making for a hassle-free replacement.
6. Starters
Starters have a long lifespan and are durable if properly maintained, making them a smart item to buy used. However, it's a mechanical component, so make sure to test it and make sure it's in good condition.
7. Gearboxes
A new gearbox costs thousands. As long as you know what to look for, it's worth it to buy used. Gearboxes are durable, so if the previous owner maintained theirs well, it can still have several years of reliable use left to give.
8. Engines
It may surprise you to learn that engines can and should be bought used, considering how crucial it is to your car's performance. However, a new engine is extremely expensive, so if you manage to find a used one of the same make and model that's in good shape, don't hesitate to scoop it up.
9. Seats
Seats wear out over time, so if you manage to come across lightly used ones, they can drastically upgrade your car's interior and contribute to your comfort as well. Brand new seats can be very expensive, and used ones often come with heating, lumbar support, and airbags already installed.
10. Alternators
Despite being a mechanical part, alternators can safely be bought used in good condition. New ones can be expensive, and they're built to last, so even a used one still has several years to give.
Now that we've talked about car parts that you can safely buy second-hand, let's cover the ones you should never buy used.
1. Tires
Tires are your direct connection with the road. Buying used will only result in less traction, grip, handling, and braking, which can make for a dangerous and less pleasant driving experience.
2. Spark Plugs
Spark plugs play an integral role in your engine's performance. Spark plugs are designed to fit the exact specifications of your car, and worn-out ones can cause misfires. Brand new ones are also relatively inexpensive.
3. Filters
Air and oil filters should always be bought new because they're crucial for protecting your engine and yourself. They're also relatively cheap to buy new.
4. Batteries
You should always buy car batteries new because they have a limited lifespan, and used ones can be unreliable. New batteries also come with warranties that can give you peace of mind.
5. Fuel Pumps
Fuel pumps should always be bought new because they're a key component to your engine's performance and safety. Used pumps may have hidden damage and might not fit your car well.
6. Airbags
Airbags are crucial lifesavers in the case of collisions that should never be compromised on. Used ones may fail to deploy properly, which puts you and your passengers at risk, while new ones must meet strict safety regulations.
7. Brake Pads
Because they are essential for your safety, you should always buy brake pads and other brake components new. Used ones may have hidden wear or damage that can put you at risk.
8. Suspension Components
You should always buy suspension components like shocks, struts, and control arms new because they're crucial for your car's handling and safety. Even if they look like they're in good shape, used components can have hidden wear and tear that could have a disastrous effect.
9. Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers should always be bought new because they are crucial to visibility. New wipers are also relatively inexpensive and easy to replace.
10. Timing Belts
Timing belts are essential for your engine's functioning. A damaged one can destroy valves and even the engine itself, so it's not worth it to buy used.
