Choosing the right parts for your car is one of the key challenges drivers face when repairing or maintaining their vehicle. The decision of whether to choose new car parts or used parts for a car, affects not only the costs but also the quality and durability of the repair. In this entry, we will compare both solutions, paying attention to the financial aspects, quality and availability of components, and we will also suggest where to look for the best spare parts for cars.
Cost – savings with used parts
One of the most important arguments for choosing used car parts is their price . New parts, especially original and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, can cost several times more than their aftermarket counterparts. Used car parts are often available at a fraction of the cost of new components, which is a significant saving for the driver.
Price comparisons indicate that the used OEM part can cost half of its new equivalent; in the case of expensive components (e.g. LED headlights , gearboxes , engines , steering wheels , rims , seats or differentials ) the difference exceeds 70%. Experts emphasize that in typical compacts the most expensive item in the basket is the engine accessories, but in premium class cars the leading role is played by adaptive suspension elements. Thanks to this, a driver who switches from a "full authorized service center" to used car parts can reduce the annual service budget from PLN 5-6 thousand to about PLN 3 thousand - without giving up the originals.
Quality – the original from dismantling is better than cheap substitutes
Many drivers wonder if the parts used for their car are as good as new. It is worth noting that used OEM components usually outperform cheap replacements in terms of durability and fit. Original passenger car parts are manufactured to high factory standards, which guarantees their reliability and long life even after dismantling.
Unlike aftermarket parts, which are sometimes manufactured by third parties and may vary in quality, used OEM parts maintain factory specifications. When purchased from a trusted car parts store, such as Global Parts , you can count on a start-up guarantee, which additionally increases safety and comfort of use.
The role of CAR PARTS certificates
When buying spare parts for cars, it is worth verifying the quality markings: OE (car manufacturer), OEM (first assembly manufacturer), OEQ (comparable quality) and AM (aftermarket). From professional sellers - such as the automotive store Global Parts – Each used component is accompanied by an OEM number and condition description, making plug-and-play fit easy.
Availability: salvation for youngtimers and limited editions
Manufacturers guarantee partial support for an average of 10 to 15 years after the end of a model's production, and then they can withdraw rare references from stock. Youngtimer owners confirm that when it comes to bumpers, moldings or small switches, only the secondary market often offers anything sensible.
This gap is filled by a car parts store specializing in dismantling – e.g. Global Parts , which dismantles BMWs , Mercedes or Mini and has a warehouse of thousands of references not available at ASO. This is also the reason why previous entries about used parts for Mercedes, BMW and Mini enjoy great interest from readers.
How to safely buy used car parts?
Start-up warranty and right of return
When buying used car parts, it is extremely important to choose trusted suppliers. Reputable car parts stores offer not only a wide selection, but also a start-up guarantee and the possibility of returns, which minimizes the risk of purchasing a defective item.
Buyer's checklist
- Compare the OEM number on the label with the number removed from the vehicle.
- Check the mileage and year of production of the donor - they are visible on the product card
- Make sure the seller issues an invoice and ships insured.
Where to get used car parts - drivers' most frequently asked questions
Where to look for used car parts?
If you are wondering where to buy the cheapest car parts, the best solution is to use the offers of stores specializing in selling used car parts. Such places offer a wide range of original car spare parts, often coming from dismantling vehicles that were used in good condition, e.g. Global Parts focuses on BMW, Mercedes, Audi, VW and Mini.
Where to buy the cheapest car parts?
Price is a result of availability and quality: the public indicates that the best price/quality ratio is offered by used OEM parts from dismantling.
What is the best website to order car parts from?
Services with a VIN search engine minimize the risk of error.
Is it better to buy original car parts?
Failure statistics show that an OE/OEM component works longer than a cheaper replacement, so that costs equalize within 3-4 years. A used original combines this advantage with a low entry price threshold.
Car spare parts are a good choice
The dilemma of " new or used car parts " is no longer binary. In light of the analysis of costs, quality and availability, the most rational choice turns out to be branded used car parts: they offer factory durability, are cheaper than new ones and are often the only ones available for older models. The condition? Buy from a proven supplier who issues a start-up guarantee and verifies the OEM number. This is how the Global Parts car parts store works - a place where spare parts for passenger cars combine purchase security with economic common sense. Thanks to this, the driver receives exactly the same part that the manufacturer installed in the factory, but pays an amount adjusted to the realities of the secondary market.
