3 Reasons You Should Start Using Recycled Auto Parts
The auto recycling sector is one of the largest in the country. According to recent statistics, it contributes about $25 billion to the national GDP annually. Industry associations have also revealed that about 95% of local vehicles are recycled after retiring from the roadways.
Millions of cars in the U.S. reach the end of their useful lives every year, and this creates an excellent opportunity for auto recycling. About 90% of typical vehicles can be recycled.
Some of the most recycled parts include oil filters, tires, glass, steel, transmissions, carpets, belts, and car seats. About 80% of car tires are recycled annually and are estimated to be worth $220 million.
According to experts, recycling a ton of glass can help save about 10 gallons of oil from being used in the manufacturing of new glass. Some old spare parts can also be recycled and used to make different household items. For example, the recycled windshield glass is used in making jewelry, tile flooring, and glass beads.
But why should I buy recycled auto parts? Here are some of the main reasons why you should do so:
Lower Cost
One of the reasons for the popularity of recycled car parts is that they are more affordable than new ones. The main reason why you may be required to pay more for the new parts is that they haven’t been used before.
If you have an old car that needs a vital part replacement, consider going for recycled parts as you’ll get value for your money. Buying a brand new spare part for a 20-year old vehicle doesn’t make economic sense.
Used parts are the perfect choice for such cars. You should also use recycled components on new models. The fact that recycled parts have been used before doesn’t necessarily mean they are substandard. In some cases, used parts may have better performance than new ones.
This is because recycled components undergo refurbishment and vigorous testing to ascertain that there are usable. Some new parts aren’t as effective as approved used recycled ones. If you purchase a used part from a certified dealer, you’ll be assured of getting value for your hard-earned money.
Fit and Functionality
Unless your vehicle is super-rare, recycled auto components are readily available in local dealerships. Since the parts are made from a similar make and model, you’ll find what you need with ease.
Auto recyclers have measures in place to ensure all parts meet OEM standards. This means they aren’t products from third-party dealers but the original car manufacturers.
OEM auto parts have labels and are advertised as such. Buying new parts may seem like the best option, but they may be defective or not designed for your vehicle. Usually, car manufacturers focus on manufacturing parts for the newest models.
Therefore, when you buy new components, they may have slight differences than the ones in your car. When shopping for used ones, you can do verifications to ascertain that they came from cars with similar make and model. This means they’ll fit perfectly in your vehicle.
Eco-Friendly
Millions of people use cars in their everyday lives. Auto manufacturers have realized the need to protect the environment by embracing new ways of minimizing the strain on natural resources.
You should start using recycled auto parts as this will result in a reduction in the number of resources used in manufacturing new ones. The manufacturing process uses a significant amount of money, time, and energy and produces smoke and waste. Used car components can be put to use without undergoing the process.
Even if a vehicle has been involved in an accident and destroyed, there is a chance that most of their parts can be recycled and reused. Most modern car manufacturers use steel in making body frames. The metal can be melted and reused, and this reduces mining activities.
The process requires less energy than the original casting, and this reduces the release of greenhouse gases into the environment.
Tips on How to Find and Purchase Recycled Auto Parts
When shopping for the auto parts, ensure that you visit a reputable supplier such as Tear-a-Part. These can be various online platforms or local dealers. Irrespective of where you decide to buy the car components, compare prices from different sellers before you make your final decision.
Research what you need and how much they cost. Make sure you have your VIN with you when shopping. Some of the available parts may not be designed for your car make and model.
If you have a VIN, dealers can search to get the exact recycled parts for your car, and you’ll not need to worry about malfunctioning. Also, avoid purchasing duplicates. Only go for legitimate parts.