When you buy privately-sold used auto parts, you never know quite what you are getting (unless you buy them from a mechanic). That said, if you buy used parts from someone, be sure to have the parts checked out by a licensed mechanic. Here are three reasons why.

Installing Parts of Unknown Functionality Has Mixed Results

If you thought you could get a better deal on used car parts to repair your vehicle, and went out and bought the parts without checking to see if they worked, you would end up with mixed results in your vehicle. Sure, many parts would work just fine, but there is always that one part that you really need that once installed, does not work. Now you have to spend twice as much to get a part that does work and install that working part. If you had a mechanic test the parts or take them apart to examine them first, you would know ahead of time if they had been worth your money.

You May Have to Spend More Anyway

Buying used car parts from a private seller for cheap means that you may have to pay more later anyway. Even if you manage to buy parts that work, they are probably only going to work for a limited time. (After all, they are used.) However, if you bought used car parts from a mechanic, the parts would be in the best possible shape, and may even come with a limited warranty. If you are dead set on going the cheaper route, you can prevent the added expenses later by having the mechanic check out the parts you bought, or are interested in buying. 

Your Mechanic Will Be Installing These Parts and Can Check Them for You

Since your mechanic will be installing whatever parts you buy, it is just a thing of convenience to have him or her check the parts anyway. This way, at least, your mechanic can alert you to any problems with the parts you bought prior to installing the parts in your vehicle. If he or she spots anything out of the ordinary, then you would get a phone call letting you know that there is a problem with the affected part or parts that you bought. Then you can choose to buy certified used parts from your mechanic, or order the used parts through the manufacturer of your vehicle.

Contact a company, like Goodfellow Motors Inc, for more help.