subject: Not All Car Parts Might Not Be Created Equal [print this page] There are many things to consider when shopping for car parts. For example, if your starter is making strange noises, it may be time to replace it. Can you do the job yourself? Where do you go for the right part? What choices will you be facing as you look for a starter replacement? Here are some points to think about.
Which Part Do You Get?
You could be faced with a lot of options when you shop for your car part. You can get information online for what you need. The parts dealer should have a website. When you go there and find the right starter, you may be surprised. There could be a list of items that will fit your car. You may have to decide between new and remanufactured. You might also have the option of a long or short warranty period.
Re-Manufactured
Many parts that you can buy will be rebuilt. This is not the same as a used part from a salvage yard. When you buy a re-manufactured or rebuilt part there is an extra fee. It is called a core charge. For example, the starter might be fifty dollars. The core charge might be fifteen dollars. The initial cost will be sixty-five dollars. When you bring your old part in, the store refunds you the core charge. As long as the starter is not severely damaged, you will get the money back.
What Happens To Your Old Starter?
Your old part is sent to a facility to be rebuilt. It will eventually be back in a parts store; clean and ready to go.
Parts Which Are Brand New
New parts are parts that have not been rebuilt or used before. Everything about them is new. They will usually cost more than their rebuilt counterpart.
Which Warranty?
How long do you plan to keep your present vehicle? That can determine your warranty decisions. Consider a longer warranty if you have no plans to replace your car. If you will not be keeping it long, any warranty will probably do. A LLT warranty will be your best choice in many cases. It is a limited lifetime warranty. Usually you just bring it back if it fails, at any time. You will be given a suitable replacement part. You may pay more for a lifetime warranty, but you will probably get a better part. With any warranty, always read it to be certain.
Summary
The decision to buy new or re-manufactured car parts can be determined by the warranty. Also take into consideration how long you plan to keep your car. Always read parts warranties to be certain of your rights.
