If you are trying to get your vehicle fixed and you don't have a lot of money to spend, talk with the mechanic at the shop about finding trusted used or aftermarket parts for the repairs needed. This can cut down the cost of the repairs substantially, and help you get the car fixed like you need. Get more than one estimate for the project for the car, to make sure that you aren't getting overcharged or charged for items that you don't need, and then start searching for the parts.

Aftermarket Options

Aftermarket auto parts are parts that aren't made by the company that manufactured your vehicle. Although they aren't specifically like the part that was in the car when it was brand new, they are still functional and meet the safety requirements for manufacturing. Sometimes the quality of the original parts is inferior to the aftermarket parts, so you could be getting a better part at a lower cost. These are available at part retailers and online.

Local and Online Used Parts

Used parts are easy to find and great to use. Often, someone gets into an accident, decides they don't want their car, or buys parts that they don't need. If they can't return the parts, or have parts still in good condition, they will sell them online through the classifieds or on popular auto trading and part sites.

Ask the mechanic if they have a retailer for used auto parts that they like to use, or if you should find the parts on your own. Some junk yards in your area could have the parts you need for a low cost. You may want to have each part inspected before the mechanic puts it in your car, to be sure that part is going to be safe and last for a little while.

No one likes to shell out money to fix their automobile, but when you take the time and spend the money to fix it the right way, it's going to improve or maintain the value of your vehicle. Find out exactly what is wrong with your vehicle when you notice that it needs repairs, and what the cost should be to fix it with new parts. If the markup of the part from the mechanic shop is high, you'll notice huge savings when you choose one of these alternative part options for the repairs. Check out retailers like Cottman Used Auto Parts for more info.