Selling used car parts.
Salvage yards offer an excellent opportunity to buy auto parts for low prices. You can also sell some of the parts of your used automobile to the yards for quick cash. However, there are some considerations that you must make and procedures that you need to follow before you make a purchase or sale at a salvage yard.
Buying used car parts.
Finding an automobile replacement part at a salvage yard is never a difficult task. However, you must ensure that the parts you purchase are of high quality to offer you the best service. Here are some of the considerations that you need to make while buying used auto parts from a salvage yard.
- Find the right type of salvage yard.
Getting parts from salvage yards has become easier than ever before, especially with some of the dealerships listing their inventory and selling their parts online. However, if you prefer to visit the salvage yard in person, you must determine whether it is a u-pull-it or full-service salvage yard.
A full-service salvage yard is one where you request a car part, and one of the professional workers pulls it from their inventory or out of a car as you wait. A u-pull-pit, on the other hand, requires that you salvage the parts by yourself, whether they are still attached to the automobile or placed in bins.
Some operations also offer both options but ensure that you make an inquiry so that you can carry the right tools for the job if you are going to get the parts on your own.
- Be precise about the part that you want to purchase.
Salvage yards have many car parts, some of which may differ very slightly. That is why it is crucial to have the specific part number and model of the part that you wh=ish to purchase. You can determine this by checking on the model number of the part that you wish to replace or your user’s manual.
If you still can’t determine the make or model of the part, it is advisable to bring the part with you to the salvage yard. Show the part to the yard seller or their representative so that they can have something to compare when they think they have found the right part.
- Find the parts you need
Salvage yards are often filled with mystery, you never know what you can find, unless you look for it. Ask about the organization scheme of the yard where you are looking for parts, especially if it is a u-pull-pit. In most cases, the parts are arranged in terms of popularity, and you are likely to find the part that you are looking for upfront.
- Ask about the history of the auto part you wish to buy
Most cars end up in salvage yards because they are damaged or worn out. It is, therefore, essential to learning about the history of the auto part that you wish to purchase before completing the transaction. This way, you can ensure that the item is worth your money.
Remember that some of these auto parts undergo a process of rejuvenation, and might look newer than they are. Ask about the age and mileage of the item to determine whether it is suitable for your automobile.
- Inquire about the return policy of the salvage yard
It is important to note that some salvage yards don’t issue refunds or accept returns for products after the sale. This may applu=y even if you realize that the product is faulty after buying it, and it is, therefore, essential to ask about the return policy before purchase.
If you are buying from a yard that has a return policy, ensure that you read through their terms to determine the maximum period before which returns are acceptable.
selling used car parts
While selling the parts of your used automobile to a salvage yard, you must adhere to their requirements and follow the right procedures to make the highest amount of money. Some of the steps that you need to follow include;
- Find out your DMVs regulations
Depending on your state, your local DVM may have rules and regulations regarding the scrapping and sale of the parts of your automobile. Ensure that you review the DMV regulations regarding the title, plate, and registration of your car before selling its parts
Selling the parts of your car requires that you follow some legal steps. Knowing these regulations is the best way to avoid any legal issues that may arise later. If you choose to salvage the entire car, for example, you need to sign its title over to the salvage yard for a legal transaction.
You are also required to surrender the license plate of your vehicle to your local DVM or the tax collector’s office to show that you no longer use the car. Failure to do so could result in some severe consequences, including having your driver’s license revoked.
- Have the vehicle assessed
Whether you are selling the used car parts to a salvage yard or individual buyers, they are only willing to purchase the parts that are in good condition. If your vehicle isn’t completely damaged or in very bad condition, there may still be some parts that can make a sizable profit from. Have a mechanic thoroughly ‘inspect the vehicle to determine the viable parts. The mechanic can help you to determine the parts that are in good condition to fetch a reasonable price and those that should be sold as scrap metal.
- Know the requirements of the salvage yard
Aside from following the DVM regulations, some salvage yards may also have their won rules. Contact the local salvage yard that you prefer to work with and inquire about their requirements. Some yards may require that you clean the parts before you sell them.
If you are selling the entire car, they may require that you remove certain parts such as the tires, glass, and some of the items in the interior. In some cases, you may secure more money from the car or its parts if they are well maintained and adherent to the rules of the salvage yard.
It is also essential to determine the paperwork that the junkyard requires before you sell the car parts to them. Ensure that the requirements of the salvage yard adhere to those of your local DVM.
- Remove the car parts.
Remove the parts that you wish to sell from the car, ensuring that you take great care as you do so. Remember that each part of the car has its value, and you can only maintain it by ensuring that you are as gentle as possible.
The transmission, wheels, engine, and brakes are some of the parts that you can sell individually. If you are not selling the parts immediately, remove them from the car and store them safely. It is also essential to enquire with the salvage yard that you selected about the parts that they can buy from you.