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Affordable Used Windshields at Your Local Used Auto Salvage Yard
If your car's window is cracked, broken, or needs to be replaced, think about buying a used car window from a salvage yard. Salvage yards, also called junkyards, have thousands of junk cars with used auto parts like windows, windshields, and power windows for way less money than buying new. Let's talk about how much you can save and what you need to know before going to a local salvage yard near you.
Why Buy a Used Car Window from an Auto Part Salvage Yard?
Salvage yards are a great way to save money on car parts. When a car is sent to a junkyard, it still has lots of parts that are in good working condition. Buying used car parts like windows or windshields lets you save a lot of money compared to buying brand-new parts. Here are some reasons to buy a used car window:
- Cost Savings: The price of a new windshield or side window can be between $150 and $300, depending on the make and model. At a salvage yard, you can often find a replacement window for as little as $50. That’s a savings of 60-80% compared to buying new.
- OEM Quality: Salvage yards usually have OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, which means the window will fit your car perfectly without any issues. This is especially important for auto glass repair, where a proper fit is very important.
- Eco-Friendly Option: Buying used parts helps with recycling and reduces waste. Getting parts from salvage yards means there is less need for new materials, which is better for the environment.
- Availability: Whether you're looking for a windshield from a salvage yard, a side window, or a power window, there’s a good chance you’ll find what you need in their wide selection of used auto parts.
If you're not familiar with salvage yards, U-Pull-It.com makes it easy to find salvage yards near you. You can use our directory to find salvage yards and junkyards that have affordable used auto parts.
How to Buy a Used Car Window at a Salvage Yard
If you need a replacement window, going to a salvage yard is a good way to save money. Here's how to do it:
- Locate a Salvage Yard: Find a salvage yard near you using U-Pull-It’s junkyard directory. These directories often have information about what parts are available, which makes it easier to know if they have what you need.
- Bring Your Tools: Many salvage yards work on a “U-Pull-It” basis, which means you need to take off the parts yourself. Bring basic tools like screwdrivers, utility knives, and safety gloves to remove the window.
- Inspect for Quality: Check the used window for cracks or chips. Salvage yards try to sell high-quality parts, but it’s important to make sure the piece of glass is in good shape before buying it.
- Check for Warranty: Most salvage yards, including those listed on U-Pull-It.com, offer warranties on used parts. A 90-day warranty is common, which gives you some security in case the part doesn’t work as expected.
Savings Breakdown: New vs. Salvage Yard Windows
Below is a table comparing the costs of buying new versus buying used car windows from a salvage yard:
Window Type | Price at Dealership (New) | Salvage Yard Price (Used) |
---|---|---|
Windshield | $200 – $300 | $50 – $100 |
Side Window | $100 – $150 | $30 – $60 |
Rear Window | $150 – $200 | $40 – $80 |
The price list shows that you can save up to 75% when you choose used windows from a salvage yard.
Tips for Installing a Used Car Window
Once you’ve bought a used car window, you’ll need to install it. Here are some tips:
- DIY Installation: If you have the right tools and knowledge, installing a used windshield at a salvage yard can be a DIY project. Just make sure to follow all the safety steps.
- Hire a Technician: If you’re not sure about installing the window yourself, hiring a technician can still be cheaper than buying a brand-new window. Getting it installed by a local shop costs about $100-$150, and when combined with your salvage yard purchase, it still saves you a lot of money.
- Check Vehicle Warranties: Using used auto parts may void certain vehicle warranties. Make sure to contact your insurance provider before you replace the window, especially if it’s covered by your insurance policy.
Best Used Auto Salvage Yards to Buy a Used Car Window
Some of the best places to find used auto glass include well-known salvage yards like Pick-n-Pull and Pull-A-Part. Check out our guide on Pick-n-Pull locations to find salvage yards near you that carry a wide selection of used windows and other auto parts.
Buying a Used Windshield Replacement from a Salvage Yard to Save on Insurance Costs
Buying a used windshield from a salvage yard is not only a cheap way to replace a broken or cracked windshield, but it can also help you save money on auto insurance. If you need a windshield replacement and file an insurance claim, it could lead to higher premiums depending on your insurance policy and deductible. Choosing to buy a replacement windshield from a junk yard means you can avoid raising your insurance premium by not filing a claim.
- Avoiding Premium Increases: If you make an insurance claim for a windshield repair or replacement, there’s a very good chance your premiums might go up. Instead, buying a used windshield from an auto salvage yard lets you pay out of pocket at a much lower cost, avoiding the increase in premiums.
- Affordable Repairs Without Deductibles: Most auto insurance policies have a deductible that you need to pay before insurance covers the repair and replacement costs. This deductible could be more than the price of a used windshield from a salvage yard—which means it’s often better to buy used rather than file a claim. For example, if your deductible is $500 but you can get a used windshield for $50-$100, you end up saving a lot of money.
- Cost Comparison: Here is a table that shows the cost difference between filing an insurance claim and buying a used windshield from a junk yard:
Expense Type | Insurance Claim Cost (with Deductible) | Salvage Yard Cost (Used Windshield) |
Deductible | $500 | N/A |
Windshield Cost (Used) | N/A | $50 – $100 |
Total Out of Pocket | $500 | $50 – $100 |
Choosing to purchase used from a junk yard can save you anywhere from $400 to $450, depending on your deductible and the price of the windshield.
- Avoiding Aftermarket Parts: Many auto insurance companies use new aftermarket parts that may not fit as well as OEM parts. Salvage yards often have OEM windshields, making sure the replacement part fits your car or truck perfectly without lowering quality.
- Repaired or Replaced at Lower Cost: Whether your windshield needs repair or replacement, getting a used windshield from an auto salvage yard can be the most cost-effective choice. These parts are less expensive, and using a replacement windshield from a salvage yard can be more reliable than using aftermarket parts.
By buying a used windshield from a salvage yard, you’re taking control of the costs for your repair needs without having to worry about a deductible or higher insurance premiums. Plus, using buy used auto parts is a good way to help the environment by reducing the need for new parts.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I replace a cracked window with a used one?
A: Yes! Used car windows from salvage yards are an affordable way to replace cracked or broken glass. Just make sure to check for any chips or cracks before buying.
Q: How much can I save by buying a used car window from a salvage yard?
A: You can save up to 75% compared to buying a new window. Used windshields can cost as low as $50, while new ones often cost between $150 to $300.
Q: Are used car windows covered by warranty?
A: Many salvage yards offer a 90-day warranty on used auto parts, including windows. Be sure to ask about warranties at the salvage yard before buying.
Q: Do salvage yards carry windows for all makes and models?
A: Salvage yards have a wide selection of used parts, but availability depends on the vehicle. Using U-Pull-It’s inventory search, you can check for specific makes and models.
Q: Will using a used car window void my car's warranty?
A: Depending on your vehicle warranties, using used parts may void certain warranties. Be sure to check your warranty conditions or contact your insurance provider to avoid any problems.
Find a Salvage Yard Near You
Ready to save big on used auto parts? Head over to U-Pull-It.com to find a salvage yard near you and get the replacement parts you need today. Give us a call at 954-581-0027 if you have any questions, or click to learn more about how we can help you find the right used windshield or replacement parts for your vehicle repair needs.