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Fix Your Car's Broken Suspension Cheaply with Salvage Yard Finds
Do you have a broken car suspension and need a cheap solution? Buying a used car suspension from a salvage yard can be a great way to fix your car without spending a lot of money. OEM used suspensions found at junkyards are usually in very good condition, helping you save money and time compared to buying a new part from a dealer.
In this article, we'll talk about what you need to know about buying a used suspension system, from saving money to tips on finding the right parts for your car. We'll also explain how salvage yards get their parts and why used suspension parts can be a good choice.
Why Choose a Salvage Yard for Your Suspension Replacement?
When fixing a car, used auto parts from a junkyard can help you save a lot of money. Here’s why buying a used suspension system from a salvage yard is a good idea:
- Save Money: Buying a used suspension from a junkyard can save you 50-80% compared to buying a new one. This could save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, depending on your car's make and model.
- Save Time: Salvage yards have lots of car parts, including suspension parts like shocks, struts, and coil springs. You can often find the part you need the same day, which saves time compared to waiting for a new part to be shipped.
- Good Quality: Salvage yards often get their parts from cars that were in accidents but still have working parts. Used suspensions are often in good condition because many cars are scrapped due to damage that doesn’t affect the suspension.
Components of a Car Suspension System
A car's suspension system is made up of several important components that work together to provide a smooth and stable ride. Here are the key parts of a suspension system and what they do:
- Shock Absorbers: These help absorb the impact from bumps and potholes, making your ride smoother. When shock absorbers wear out, you might notice more bouncing or “clunk” sounds when driving over uneven surfaces.
- Struts: Struts combine the shock absorber and spring into one unit. They help support the weight of the vehicle and play an important role in how the car handles when you steer. New struts can be expensive, but used struts from a junkyard are a good way to save money.
- Springs: Coil springs support the weight of the car and help keep the wheels in contact with the road. If a spring breaks, it can affect the vehicle’s ride height and make it unsafe to drive.
- Control Arms and Bushings: These parts connect the suspension to the chassis and allow for smooth up-and-down movement of the wheels. If bushings are worn out, they can cause poor handling and uneven tire wear.
- Comparing New vs. Used Suspension Costs:
| Part Type | New Cost ($) | Used Cost ($) | Potential Savings (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shock Absorber | 150 – 300 | 50 – 100 | 50 – 80% |
| Struts | 200 – 400 | 75 – 150 | 50 – 80% |
| Coil Springs | 100 – 200 | 40 – 80 | 50 – 70% |
| Control Arms | 150 – 350 | 60 – 120 | 50 – 75% |
Identifying the Correct Suspension Part for Your Vehicle
When searching for a used suspension, it's crucial to ensure compatibility with your vehicle:
- Bring Your VIN: Your Vehicle Identification Number can help the salvage yard staff verify compatible parts.
- Check Part Numbers: If possible, find the part number on your damaged suspension and look for a matching number.
- Consult Online Resources: Websites and forums often have databases where you can check part interchangeability.
Why do the Suspension Shocks Go Bad?
Suspension components can wear out over time due to regular use and exposure to rough roads. Here are some reasons why suspension parts may fail:
- Wear and Tear: Constant movement and exposure to the elements cause parts to wear out. Shock absorbers and struts tend to wear down after about 50,000 to 100,000 miles.
- Road Conditions: Driving over potholes, uneven roads, and other rough surfaces can cause suspension parts to break or wear out faster.
- Load Stress: Carrying heavy loads regularly can stress the springs and shocks, causing them to fail sooner.
Assessing the Condition of Used Suspension Parts
Before purchasing, thoroughly inspect the suspension components:
- Visual Inspection: Look for signs of rust, cracks, or excessive wear.
- Test Moving Parts: Move the control arms and other components to check for excessive play or stiffness.
- Check for Leaks: Inspect shock absorbers and struts for oil leaks.
How a Bad Suspension Affects Your Vehicle
A bad suspension doesn't just make your car ride uncomfortable—it also affects safety and performance:
- Poor Handling: When suspension parts like control arms or struts are worn out, it becomes harder to steer the car, especially when making turns. This can be dangerous because the car might not respond properly in an emergency.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A worn-out suspension can cause uneven tire pressure and tire contact with the road, leading to faster wear on your tires. This means you’ll have to replace your tires more often, which adds to your costs.
- Braking Performance: If your suspension system is not working properly, it can affect how your car stops. Poor suspension can lead to longer stopping distances and make it harder to brake safely, especially in wet conditions.
- Rough Ride: A failing suspension can make your ride very uncomfortable. You’ll feel every bump and pothole, and the car may bounce excessively. This isn’t just uncomfortable—it can also be tiring and unsafe for long trips.
Safety Considerations
Your safety is paramount when dealing with suspension components:
- Professional Installation: Unless you're experienced, have a certified mechanic install the suspension parts.
- Alignment Services: After installation, get a professional wheel alignment to ensure proper handling.
Junkyards Carry Quality Used Car Parts for Domestic and Foreign Vehicles
One of the best things about buying suspension parts from a junk yard is the variety. Junkyards often have a wide range of genuine parts for both domestic and import vehicles, including popular brands like Honda. These parts are often from newer cars that have been in accidents, which means the parts are still in good condition but available for a fraction of the price of new parts from a parts dealer.
If you need suspension replacement parts, visiting a salvage yard can help you find exactly what you need at a low price. Sturtevant auto salvage yard is one such place with a large 11-acre inventory of used parts for different vehicles, both foreign and domestic.
Steps for Visiting a Junkyard to Get a Suspension
Here are some tips for visiting a junkyard and getting your own suspension parts:
- Dress Properly: Wear old clothes and closed-toe shoes to protect yourself from dirt and possible dangers.
- Bring Your Own Tools: Most junkyards work on a “you-pull-it” basis, so you need to bring your own tools like a socket set, wrenches, jack, and pry bar.
- Check the Vehicle: Inspect the car you are taking the suspension from. Make sure there is no visible damage to the part.
- Stay Safe: Use proper lifting techniques and watch your surroundings to avoid getting hurt.
Tools You Need to Remove a Car Suspension
If you plan to remove a suspension from a car at a salvage yard, you’ll need these tools:
- Socket Set and Ratchet: Needed for taking off bolts of different sizes.
- Pry Bar: Useful for separating the suspension from the car frame.
- Jack and Jack Stands: For safely lifting the car while you work.
- Wrenches: You may need different sizes.
- Penetrating Oil: Helps loosen rusty bolts.
- Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses and gloves.
Warranty Coverage
Many good junkyards offer warranty coverage on used parts, which can give you some peace of mind. Warranties can be between 30 and 90 days, covering defects or offering replacement if the part doesn’t work. Make sure to ask about warranty terms before buying.
For more information on buying used parts, visit our guide on affordable used auto parts at local salvage yards.
Negotiating Auto Parts Prices at Salvage Yards
Maximize your savings with these tips:
- Do Your Research: Know the average price of the part new and used to have a baseline for negotiations.
- Bundle Purchases: Buying multiple parts may give you leverage for a discount.
- Be Polite and Friendly: Building a good rapport can sometimes lead to better deals.
Core Charges and Additional Fees
Be aware of potential extra costs:
- Core Charges: Some parts may have an additional fee that's refunded when you return the old part.
- Entrance Fees: Some salvage yards charge a small fee to enter the yard.
Why OEM Junkyard Parts Are Often in Great Condition
Junkyards are full of cars that are not always old or overused. Many are there because of accidents that caused body damage but didn’t affect the suspension or other mechanical parts. Salvage yard parts often come from newer cars, which means they still have a long lifespan and are available for a much lower price than new parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much can I save by buying a used car suspension at a salvage yard?
You can save 50-80% compared to buying a new suspension part. This can mean saving hundreds of dollars.
2. Are junkyard suspensions safe to use?
Yes, as long as you inspect them for damage and wear before buying. Junkyards often get parts from cars that have body damage but still have good mechanical parts.
3. Can I return a suspension part if it doesn’t fit?
Many junkyards offer 30 to 90-day warranties so you can return or replace the part if it doesn’t fit or work properly. Make sure to ask about the warranty terms.
4. What tools do I need to remove a suspension from a junkyard car?
You’ll need a socket set, wrenches, jack, pry bar, safety glasses, and gloves.
5. Do junkyards provide installation services?
Most junkyards do not offer installation services because they are self-service.
For more information about used car parts, check out our directory of local junkyards.
Find Your Suspension and Save Today
If you’re dealing with uneven tire wear, bad handling, or a rough ride, replacing your car’s suspension doesn’t have to be expensive. Visit U-Pull-It.com today to find a trusted junkyard near you and get back on the road safely and affordably.
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