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If your car's side mirror is broken or damaged, it can be more than just annoying—it can be unsafe. Luckily, buying a used side mirror from a local junkyard or trusted online sites like eBay or Craigslist is a great way to save money and get back on the road safely. In this guide, we’ll explain why buying a used side mirror from a junkyard is a good idea and how it can help you save time and money.
Benefits of Buying a Used Side Mirror from a Junkyard
1. Save Money
Buying a used side mirror from a junkyard can save you a lot of money compared to buying a new one.
| Comparison of New vs. Used Side Mirrors | New OEM Side Mirror | Used Side Mirror (Junkyard) |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $150 – $300 | $20 – $50 |
| Availability | May require ordering | Often readily available |
| Environmental Impact | High (new production) | Low (recycled part) |
- Price Comparison: New OEM side mirrors can cost between $150 and $300, depending on the type of car, but used mirrors from junkyards can cost as little as $20 to $50.
2. Good Quality and Perfect Fit
When you buy used OEM parts from a junkyard, you get quality used parts that fit your car perfectly. These parts come from the same type of car as yours, which means they are more likely to fit well and work properly. When you buy used side view mirrors, you can trust that they were made for your car, unlike some aftermarket parts that might not fit right.
3. Quick and Easy Fix
Junkyards have a lot of used car parts to choose from, including parts for many different makes and models. This makes it easier to find the right part for your car. By searching a junkyard, you can often find a mirror for your vehicle quickly. Since junkyards have many cars, finding a match is often faster than waiting for a new part to arrive.
Pro Tip: Use U-Pull-It.com to find a local junkyard near you and get the auto parts you need.
How Junk Cars End Up in Salvage Yards
Most junk cars end up in salvage yards because of accidents, insurance write-offs, or when owners decide to sell their junk cars. It's important to check the quality of the side mirror by looking at the part numbers or making sure it is compatible with your vehicle. Before the parts are sold, these cars are inspected to make sure the good parts are in good condition and meet quality standards. Salvage yards get these cars through auctions or direct sales. If you want to learn more, check out our guide on how to sell your junk car.
Once a car gets to the junkyard, it is taken apart, and the good parts, like side mirrors, auto glass, and other car parts, are saved and sold. The rest of the car is recycled, which makes this an environmentally friendly option.
How to Find the Right Side Mirror for Your Car
1. Make Sure It Fits
When buying a replacement side view mirror, you need to make sure it will work with your car. Here are some things to think about:
- Make, Model, and Year: Make sure you know the specific make and model of the mirror you need.
- Driver's Side or Passenger's Side: Make sure you know which side of the car the mirror is for.
- Mirror Features: Some mirrors have extra features like heated glass, power adjustment, or turn signals. Make sure you know what features you need.
- Color Match: Matching the color of your mirror is helpful, but not always necessary. You can paint it if needed.
2. Check the Mirror Before You Buy
Before buying used car parts from a junkyard, make sure they are in good shape:
- Glass Condition: Look for cracks or chips in the mirror glass.
- Housing Condition: Make sure the outside part of the mirror is not cracked or broken.
- Features Work: If the mirror is electric, test the electrical parts to make sure they work.
How to Install a Used Side Mirror
Replacing a side mirror can be a DIY project, but keep these things in mind: Check your car's manual or watch a tutorial for guidance, especially if you're a beginner. For detailed help, follow step-by-step instructions or watch a video tutorial online to make the process easier and safer.
- Tools You Need: You will need tools like a screwdriver and possibly a socket wrench. Some mirrors might need special tools.
- Wiring Knowledge: If the mirror has electrical features, like heating, you need to know how to connect or disconnect the wiring.
- Painting: If the used mirror doesn’t match the color of your car, you can spray paint it to match.
If you prefer to have it done professionally, see our guide on choosing the best auto repair shop.
Possible Drawbacks of Buying Used Side Mirrors
While buying used side view mirrors is usually a cost-effective solution, there are some challenges: Be aware of the legal requirements for side mirrors in different areas, as replacing a broken mirror quickly is important to follow traffic laws.
- Limited Warranty: Most used parts have limited warranties or no warranty at all, so it is important to check before you buy.
- Wear and Tear: Since these parts are used, they may have some wear or damage. Always look for problems.
- Availability: Finding the exact mirror you need can sometimes be hard, especially for rare car models or special features.
Why Buy Auto Parts from a Junkyard?
Buying used OEM parts from a salvage yard helps you save money and is good for the environment. By using recycled parts, you help reduce the demand for making new parts, which saves energy and resources. It also minimizes waste by making sure that usable car parts are not thrown away but used again. When you buy used car parts, you help cut down on waste and make sure good parts are put to use instead of being thrown away.
Learn more about the benefits of auto recyclers and junkyards here.
Used Side Mirrors and Rearview Mirrors: What to Know
Buying a used side mirror or rearview mirror can be a great way to save money while getting the automotive part you need. Whether you need a side or rearview mirror, you have many options to choose from, including door mirrors for your car or truck mirrors for larger vehicles. Auto salvage yards are an excellent place to find used OEM car parts, including rearview mirrors and door mirrors.
Why Buy Used Mirrors from a Salvage Yard?
- Affordable Replacement: Buying a replacement auto part from a salvage yard is an affordable option compared to buying new. It can save you a significant amount of money, and affordable used parts are often available.
- Quality and Reliability: When you buy OEM used auto parts, you know you are getting parts made for your specific make or model, which means quality and reliability. Used car doors and used mirrors from a junkyard can provide the quality options you’re looking for.
- Wide Selection: Salvage yards have a diverse inventory of used auto parts to suit different vehicles. You can find used parts for almost any vehicle, which makes it easier to get the replacement part you need.
- Environmental Impact: Using recycled parts like used auto mirrors helps reduce waste and the demand for new parts, making it a good choice for the environment.
Things to Consider When Buying Used Mirrors
- Glass Replacement: Make sure the mirror glass is in good shape and does not need a glass replacement.
- Compatibility: Verify that the auto mirror is compatible with your car. Check the OEM car part number to ensure it fits.
- Quality Assurance: Many salvage yards offer a quality assurance program to help you feel confident about your purchase. Always ask about a return policy or gold seal certified parts to ensure it meets high standards.
- Affordable Prices: Shopping at a salvage yard can help you get affordable prices on used auto parts you need. You can shop for used parts knowing that they have been inspected and are ready to use.
How to Find the Right Mirror for Your Vehicle
- Request Form: Many salvage yards, including U-Pull-It, have a request form where you can ask for the parts for your vehicle. This can help you find the exact used OEM car parts you need.
- Automotive Recycler: Using an automotive recycler can help you find the perfect part for your car. Opting for used parts from a reliable recycler ensures you get parts that meet high standards.
- Great Customer Service: Salvage yards often have staff ready to help you find the part you need. They can assist you in finding side or rearview mirrors that fit your car perfectly.
Benefits of Used Mirrors from Salvage Yards
- Unbeatable Value: Salvage yards provide unbeatable deals on quality used auto parts, including truck mirrors and car mirror replacements.
- Clear View of the Road: A properly installed used side mirror or rearview mirror will give you a clear view of the road, improving your driving safety.
- Highest Standards: Salvage yards often inspect parts to ensure they meet the highest standards before selling them. You can trust them as a source for quality parts.
Whether you need to replace a side mirror or a rearview mirror, a salvage yard is the best place to find an affordable replacement that meets your needs. Trust us to help you find the replacement mirrors you need at a price that fits your budget.
Tips for Getting the Best Deals at Junkyards
- Bring Your Own Tools: Many u-pull-it junkyards require you to take the parts off the car yourself. Bringing the right tools can save you time and money.
- Check Online First: Use U-Pull-It’s inventory system to see if the part you need is available before you go.
- Visit on Weekdays: Junkyards are usually less busy on weekdays, so it might be easier to find the auto part you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much can I save buying a used side mirror from a junkyard?
You can save about 60-80% compared to buying a new OEM mirror. A new side mirror might cost $150-$300, but a used mirror from a junkyard can be as cheap as $20-$50.
2. Are used side mirrors from junkyards reliable?
Yes, especially if they are OEM parts from the same make and model. These parts are made for your car, so they fit and work well.
3. What if I can’t find the exact mirror for my car?
If you can't find the exact side mirror, try checking other junkyards or search on U-Pull-It.com. You could also use a universal replacement mirror, but it may not have all the features you need.
4. Can I install a used side mirror myself?
Yes, you can install a used car mirror yourself if you have the right tools. Just be careful with the wiring if the mirror has electrical features.
5. Why are junkyards good for the environment?
Junkyards are important for car recycling. Buying used auto parts helps lower the need for new parts to be made, which is better for the environment.
Conclusion
Buying a used side mirror from a junkyard is a cheap, fast, and effective way to fix a broken mirror. You get OEM quality, save money, and help the environment by using used parts. Visit U-Pull-It.com to find the best price and a diverse selection of parts for your car today. Whether you need a replacement mirror, used auto glass, or other car parts, junkyards have the affordable options you need.
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