If you are mechanically inclined and do most of the work on your vehicles yourself, you are already saving a lot of money on maintenance and repairs; all you are paying for is parts. The next time you are going to be working on your truck or car, make a list of the parts you need and go to the salvage yard. Here are a few advantages you can enjoy when you do.

Lower Prices

The biggest benefit of going to a salvage yard for used car parts is the price. You could buy from a used auto parts dealer, or from someone online through an auction or classified website, but you will pay even less when you go and remove the part from a vehicle yourself.

See the Parts Before You Buy

Anytime you buy a used part, you cannot be sure of its condition. However, if you are at a salvage yard, you have the opportunity to look over many different cars for the part you need. Keep in mind that most of the vehicles in the yard are there because of an accident, and the parts are still good. You can inspect the parts before you buy them, making sure you are getting the one that is in the best condition. While you may end up taking off a few parts that you find are not quite in the condition you hoped for, the money you save will be worth it.

Additional Parts

While you are going through the different cars, you may find a piece or two you forgot you needed. Perhaps the dial for your heater is broken, or you have a missing hubcap, you can probably find what you need in a salvage yard for a very low price. If you have an older model vehicle, you may be able to find a piece you have been trying to find for a while.

Make a Bit of Extra Money

If you have been browsing through the classifieds looking for a part, you may have noticed a listing where someone is looking for a part, or perhaps you have a friend that is looking for one. Since you are already there, with your tools, keep your eyes open for anything you know you can quickly sell.

A trip to a salvage yard can prove to be a good financial decision. Save money on a quality part for your own vehicle, and perhaps find a few things you can sell. Make sure you get to remove the part yourself, and that the part is in good condition. It may take a bit more time, but it is better than buying a used part from someone across the country sight unseen, or paying the price for a new one.