by Ray Fauteux

Created on: March 08, 2009   Last Updated: May 01, 2009

There are several avenues to consider when searching for a used car part. First of all keep in mind that if your car is only a year or two old, chances are you will have a pretty difficult time finding a used part for it. It's not impossible, but your odds would be much better if you happen to be fixing up an older vehicle.

It almost seems foolish to pay the high prices demanded for new auto parts. If you are at all handy and planning to do your own repair or body work, then it would certainly pay to consider the massive market there is for used auto parts. For the most part, the majority of new replacement parts that are available are extremely expensive and in many instances, totally unnecessary.

Of course junkyards are the first place people might think of searching in order to find that elusive used part even though junkyards are a mere shadow of what they once were. In past decades you could expect to find hundreds of rusting wrecks piled everywhere. Now most lots are computerized, categorized and convenient to use. All you have to do now is let them know at the office what part you are looking for and then can do a computer search of their inventory and point you in the right direction in the yard. However, the more high tech the system becomes, the more it seems to cost, and there may be better bargains to be found elsewhere.

You might consider giving swap meets a try. This is a great place to look for used auto parts because sellers are often very willing to negotiate the price. In most cases this will not happen at a junk yard. At swap meets you will likely find that sellers specialize in certain parts for specific makes and models, so chances are you will have to shop around and be patient. Be sure to bring cash and you will be in a better position to negotiate. You might just find the perfect part at a great price and at the same time meet some interesting people.

There is a huge used auto parts market that can be accessed on-line. If all else fails, check out the hundreds of used auto parts dealers you will find on the Internet. In most cases they are connected with a widespread network of dealers. Normally you request the part you want by filling out a form on-line. As the form moves through the system, dealers who can offer you the part will be listed and you can pick and choose from the lowest price.

You might choose to buy your used auto parts from a private party. At one time that meant spending lots of time poring over the want ads and making dozens

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