Comparing Rebuilt, Remanufactured and Used Auto Parts
When faced with a major auto repair, your repair shop may ask you if you would prefer rebuilt, used or remanufactured automotive parts instead of new parts. There are differences between them in both price and quality. To make a decision, you first need to know how these three compare and which one is best for your situation. You should consider your budget as well as your long term plans for the vehicle.
Rebuilt Parts:
Major auto parts are usually comprised of several smaller parts. When a part fails, it may be due to the failing of one or more of the smaller parts while other components are still working properly. If you choose rebuilt parts, that means they will use your vehicles old parts and replace only the worn out components. If the old parts can’t be rebuilt because they are too worn, then they will use parts from another vehicle. This approach, instead of using new or remanufactured parts, usually saves money. The downside is that all of the components within the unit are equally worn. After rebuilding, some of the components are new, and some are still old. Although the old components still function and do not need replacing yet, they are worn to some degree. Factors such as heat stress and cracks can cause wear that is invisible to the human eye. Consequently, other problems could come up later, resulting in premature failure of the repair.
Used Parts:
Another option is to buy used parts from a salvage yard. This is the cheapest option but also the riskiest. When selecting a salvage yard, take a good look at the condition of the yard and the parts. Make sure the place clean and well organized. If the parts look rusted and neglected then move on to another salvage yard. There are many respected salvage yards that take pride in their business and in serving their customers. Be especially careful when buying certain used auto parts, specifically engines, transmissions, and electrical parts. They are subject to the environment and can rust and wear away internally where you can’t see it. Look for a salvage yard that has an organized dry storage building on the premises, with everything neatly stacked and categorized. It’s also a good sign if they have an up-to-date computer system used to cross reference parts. This is especially helpful if you need a hard-to-find part for a particular year, make, and model. In selecting used parts, ask about the warranty and the return policy. There are also a number of online services that can help you locate the used parts that your looking for.
Remanufactured Parts: Remanufacturing is basically recycling, old parts are remanufactured into "like new" condition. Remanufacturing typically involves disassembling, cleaning, inspecting, replacing parts, re-engineering and testing of a product before it is returned to the marketplace. The term remanufactured usually refers to a part that has been completely remanufactured to fit the standard of a new part. It has to meet the standards for OEM tolerances, durability, and quality. You will find that remanufactured auto parts usually carry a longer and stronger warranty, covering parts and labor for longer periods of time compared to rebuild parts. Remanufacturing also makes good environmental sense because it means reusing materials. Remanufacturing uses only about 20% of the energy of new manufacturing and it costs less than making new parts.
