Search Our Local Junkyards Database
Finding quality used car seats at local junkyards is an affordable way to upgrade your car's interior. By buying used car seats from auto salvage yards, you can find affordable options for almost any make and model without giving up quality. This guide will help you understand the benefits of buying used car seats and how much you can save when shopping at local junkyards listed on u-pull-it.com.
Why Choose Junkyards for Used Car Seats?
Used car seats are not only cheaper but also good for the environment. By buying used, you help reduce waste and save valuable resources that would otherwise be used to manufacture new seats. Reusing seats keeps materials like foam, leather, and metal out of landfills, making it a great choice for the planet. By choosing auto recycling, you help keep materials like foam, leather, and metal out of landfills. You also get access to a wide selection of used seats in good condition, whether you’re looking for bucket seats, bench seats, or OEM replacements for SUVs, trucks, and vans.
- Cost Savings: You can save up to 70% compared to buying new seats from a dealer. A new leather seat from a car dealer could cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000, while a used leather seat from a junkyard usually costs between $100 and $300.
- Variety of Options: Junkyards often have seats for many different makes and models, like Toyota, Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes.
- Environmental Benefits: Buying used seats helps with auto recycling and reduces waste, which supports sustainable practices.
How to Find Used Car Seats at Local Junkyards
u-pull-it.com offers a complete junkyard directory to help you find salvage yards all over the U.S. This makes it easy to find car seats in good condition and at a much lower price than new seats.
Steps to Find Used Car Seats:
- Use the Online Inventory: Many junkyards have an online inventory that lets you search by part. On u-pull-it.com, you can search by vehicle make and model to make sure the seat will be compatible with your car.
- Visit the Junkyard: After you find a junkyard that has the used car seats for sale that you need, contact them to make sure they still have it and that the seat is in good condition. Bring a photo of your current seat or know the VIN to help make sure you get a compatible seat. Junkyards often use an interchange system to ensure that the part you get is fully compatible with your car. The interchange system is a database that matches parts from different vehicle makes and models that are compatible with each other. For example, if a seat from a particular model year of a Toyota Camry can fit a Honda Accord, the interchange system will show this compatibility.
This makes it much easier for you to find the right part, even if the exact make and model of your vehicle isn’t available at the junkyard. When you do a part search, the junkyard staff can check the interchange system to help you find compatible options, ensuring you get the right fit without the guesswork. - Inspect the Seat: When you visit the junkyard, be sure to inspect the seat well. Look for tears, damaged foam, or broken adjustment levers. Make sure lumbar support and mounting bolts are in good shape, especially for automatic seats.
Types of Car Seats Available at Junkyards
Choosing the right car seat is important because it can affect your comfort and safety. There are different kinds of car seats available in junkyards, each fitting different needs:
- Leather Seats: Leather seats are strong and easy to clean, making them popular for SUVs and luxury cars like BMW and Mercedes. Always check for cracks or rips before buying.
- Cloth Seats: Cloth seats are usually cheaper and easier to find, especially for older makes and models. They are a good choice if you want to keep costs low.
- Bucket Seats and Bench Seats: Junkyards have bucket seats for sporty cars and bench seats for trucks and vans. These are perfect if you’re doing a seat swap or need a replacement because of wear and tear.
Comfort and Material Matters When Choosing Car Seats
When choosing car seats, comfort is a major factor, especially if you spend a lot of time driving. The front seat and backseat serve different purposes, and it's important to get the right type of seat for each position. The front seat, which includes the passenger seat, often has more new features like lumbar support and adjustable settings, making it more comfortable for long drives. The backseat may be simpler but still needs to be comfy for passengers.
Materials Matter: The material of your car seat plays a huge role in both comfort and durability. Leather seats offer a premium feel but can get hot in the summer, while cloth seats are cooler and less likely to get ripped or show wear quickly. If you’re looking for something more affordable, consider seats made from aftermarket materials, which are often available at junk yards.
Front vs. Back Seats: Front seats are often equipped with more accessories like armrests and adjustable headrests compared to the backseats. When shopping at junkyards, make sure the seat you’re choosing fits the needs of where you’ll install it. For example, SUV and Jaguar models often have luxurious front seats with extra features, while the backseat may focus more on space.
Where to Find Quality Seats: Junkyards are a great place to find different interior parts, including seats in good condition. Garage sales and wreck yards also sell these parts, but junkyards often have more parts available for a wide range of makes and models. You can also do a part search on websites like u-pull-it.com to see what’s in stock.
Avoid Seats Falling Apart: Make sure to inspect the seat for any signs of damage like tears or areas that are falling apart. Whether it's a pickup, SUV, or sedan, getting the right seat with intact foam and good upholstery is key to making sure your ride is comfortable. Some junkyards also sell accessories like seat covers to help keep your seats in good shape longer.
Cost Breakdown: How Much You Can Save
The table below shows the average savings you can expect by buying used car seats from a junkyard:
Car Seat Type | New (Dealer Price) | Used (Junkyard Price) | Savings (%) |
---|---|---|---|
Leather Bucket Seat | $1,200 | $250 | ~79% |
Cloth Bench Seat | $600 | $100 | ~83% |
OEM SUV Passenger Seat | $900 | $200 | ~78% |
Tips for Getting Quality Used Car Seats
- Inspect Before You Buy: Look for tears, worn areas, and mount points. Make sure the foam and adjustable parts are in good condition.
- Bring the Right Tools: Some junkyards are “U-pull-it” yards, which means you have to bring your own tools to take the seat out of the car.
- Verify Compatibility: Make sure the seat will work with your car, including mounting points, cable connections, and brake lock mechanisms if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are used car seats safe to buy from a junkyard?
Yes, as long as you check them for any damage and make sure all safety features (like airbags in newer models) are working properly. Avoid seats that have been in a crash.
2. How much can I save by buying used car seats from a salvage yard?
You can save between 70% to 85% compared to dealer prices. For example, a new leather seat costing $1,200 might be available for $250 at a junkyard.
3. Can I find luxury car seats like those for BMW or Mercedes?
Yes, many junkyards have vehicle seats from luxury brands like BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes. Check our directory to find these options.
4. Do junkyards offer warranties for used car seats?
Some junkyards offer limited warranties for used auto parts, including seats. Always ask before buying.
5. How do I reinstall a car seat I bought from a junkyard?
Installing a car seat can be a DIY job if you have experience, but it’s a good idea to ask a professional, especially if the seat has built-in safety features like airbags.
Ready to start searching for quality used car seats? Head over to u-pull-it.com to check out our user-friendly junkyard directory, which covers locations nationwide, and find affordable options near you! If you need help or have questions, let us help by contacting us through our site.