Auto Salvage Buying Tips
Auto Salvage Buying Tips
Auto Salvage Buying TipsAuto salvage buying can be a great option for persons who are trying to get a good quality vehicle at a low price. Persons who buy auto salvage vehicles are typically collectors who want to restore older vehicles, someone who may not have the principal to spend on a newer vehicle, or car dealers who restore the vehicles themselves for resale to consumers. Buying auto salvage gives the option of making repairs a little at a time whenever funds are available, or provides car enthusiasts with a project to work on themselves. There are still a few tips that should be kept in mind when buying auto salvage vehicles:
Tip one: Find a vehicle
This may be the most difficult part of the process. Salvage yards can have hundreds of vehicles all at attractive prices with promises that they will be a steal to fix up. It's best to go into the salvage buying process knowing exactly what you are looking for, and what the budget is. Visit a few local salvage yards and see what is available locally. There are also a few websites that list local salvage vehicles.
Tip two: Do your research on the vehicle
Most salvage vehicles are sold "as is where is" meaning that it is the buyers responsibility to move the vehicle once the sale is completed, and that no complaints can be made regarding the condition of the vehicle after the sale. Check online to see the experiences of other persons who have restored salvage vehicles to determine if the project is worthwhile.
Tip three: Check the parts prices
If the salvage vehicle is newer and being purchased so that it can be restored to road-worthy condition (as opposed to an older vehicle being restored for collection purposes), it is important to do research on the cost of parts. Assess what and where the damage is, and wherever possible try to see the vehicle in person before purchasing. Take a mechanic along if possible to get a better idea of how serious the damage (especially if the damage is not easily seen) is. Many salvage yards or dealers will offer competitive prices on parts for repairs. Be sure to inquire about prices on used parts to cut down on repair costs.
Tip four: Budget for problems
Even if a mechanic had a chance to inspect the vehicle prior to purchase, there is still the chance that some unforeseen problems will occur. Leave some room in the budget for these eventualities so that work on the restoration won't be delayed.