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Buy Used Car Grills: Fix Your Car’s Front-End for Less
When you need a new front end car grill, one of the cheapest ways to get it is to buy a used car grill from a local junkyard. Salvage yards, like the ones available through U-Pull-It.com, are a great way to fix your car's front-end for much less money. In this article, we’ll show you how you can save money, what to look for when buying a used grill, and why junkyards are a good place to find quality parts.
Why Buy a Used Car Grill from a Junkyard?
Buying a used front end car grill can save you 50-75% compared to buying a new one. For example, a new grill for a popular truck might cost $500, while a used one from a junkyard could be as low as $150, saving you $350 right away. The savings depend on the make and model of your vehicle, but even if you have a luxury car, you can still find used grills for a lot less. Whether you need to fix damage or just want to upgrade how your car looks, buying used auto parts can save you a lot of money.
Benefits of Buying Used Car Grills:
- Affordable Prices: With savings of up to 75% compared to new parts, you get great value for your money.
- OEM Quality: Salvage yards often have OEM used parts, which means you’re buying parts originally made by the car manufacturer. These are usually better quality than aftermarket parts.
- Availability: Junkyards like those listed on our network have an inventory of over 350 million used auto parts available, which means there’s a good chance you’ll find the exact grill you need without waiting for shipping. To look through the inventory, use the online search tool on the U-Pull-It website. Just enter your vehicle's make, model, and the part you need to see what’s available.
Comparison of Cost and Availability of Used Grills vs. New Grills
| Type of Grill | Average Cost (USD) | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM Grill | $400 – $600 | Often limited, requires ordering |
| Used OEM Grill (Junkyard) | $100 – $150 | Widely available, no wait time |
| Aftermarket Grill | $200 – $300 | Readily available, but lower quality |
Benefits of Junkyards Near You To look through the inventory, use the online search tool on the U-Pull-It website. Just enter your vehicle's make, model, and part, and you need to see what’s available.
Benefits of Junkyards Near You
Visiting junkyards near me can offer many benefits when looking for a replacement used auto parts like grills, bumpers, and other replacement parts. Junkyards provide a wide selection of genuine OEM auto parts that are well-suited for your vehicle. Here are some key benefits of buying from a local junkyard:
- Genuine OEM Parts: Junkyards offer genuine used auto parts, meaning they come directly from the same manufacturer as the original parts on your car. These parts are made to fit perfectly and often have better quality compared to aftermarket used auto parts.
- Affordable Prices: The prices at junkyards are based on the type of part, not the make and model of the vehicle. This means you can get a high-quality grill for a luxury car like a Mercedes-Benz for the same price as a grill for a Toyota Corolla. This pricing structure helps you get the best deals on quality used parts.
- Nationwide Inventory: Major auto junkyard chains in the USA have millions of parts in their inventory, making it easy to find the used parts you need. They also have a nationwide parts locator that allows you to check the inventory across multiple yards to find the part you are looking for.
How Junkyards Get Quality Car Parts
You might be wondering how junkyards get such quality parts and if these parts are reliable. Junkyards usually inspect parts for damage and to make sure they work before selling them. This way, only reliable parts are offered for sale. Cars end up in junkyards for several reasons:
- Insurance Write-Offs: Many cars that have been in accidents and are considered not worth fixing end up in salvage yards. Often, these cars have some damaged parts but also have good parts like the front-end grill.
- Older Models: Junkyards often get older cars when owners decide to buy a new vehicle. Parts from these older cars, like grills and bumpers, can still be in great shape and ready to be used again.
- Natural Events: Salvage yards also get cars damaged by natural disasters like floods and hurricanes. Not every part is ruined, and grills are often still good, making them available to buy.
Learn more about how salvage yards get flood-damaged cars here.
Finding the Right Used Car Grill
To find the right front-end grill for your car, you can use a few methods. Junkyards in our directory make it easy to find the right part by using:
- VIN Number: Your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) can help you find the exact part you need.
- Interchange System: Junkyards use a computerized interchange system to find which parts fit different makes and models. This helps you find a part even if it’s not from the exact year of your car. For example, if a specific model year grill is not available, the interchange system can tell you if the same grill from a different model year will fit.
- Bring Your Old Grill: If you can, bring your old part or a clear picture of it to compare with the parts at the junkyard.
Quality of OEM vs. Aftermarket Grilles
When comparing an OEM used grille from a junkyard to an aftermarket grille, there are a few important factors to consider:
- Material Quality: OEM grilles are made by the car manufacturer, which means they use high-quality materials designed specifically for your car. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, may not always match the original quality, which can lead to poor fitment or reduced durability.
- Fitment: Since OEM parts are made for specific makes and models, they fit perfectly. Aftermarket parts sometimes require adjustments or modifications, making installation more challenging.
- Price Comparison: A used OEM grill from a junkyard is often much more affordable than a brand-new aftermarket one, and you still get the benefit of genuine quality.
Quality and Fitment Comparison Table
| Feature | OEM Used Grill | Aftermarket Grill |
| Material Quality | High (Genuine manufacturer) | Medium (Varies by brand) |
| Fitment | Perfect fit for specific model | May require modifications |
| Price | Lower (used) | Higher (new, variable quality) |
- Price Comparison: A used OEM grill from a junkyard is often much more affordable than a brand-new aftermarket one, and you still get the benefit of genuine quality.
Removing the Used Grill from a Junk Car
If you’re going to a self-service junkyard to remove a used grill, you need to be prepared.
Tools You Will Need:
- Screwdrivers: Both Phillips and flathead types.
- Socket Set: Used to remove bolts holding the grill in place.
- Pry Bar: To help remove parts that are stuck.
- Protective Gear: Safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy shoes are very important.
Always inspect the part before taking it off. Look for cracks, dents, rust, or broken mounting tabs, because these kinds of damage can make the grill hard to fit or not work well. Avoid grills that are badly damaged, as they may not work correctly or could be hard to install.
Warranty on Used Parts
Most good junkyards offer 30-90 day warranties on used parts, including car grills. This gives you time to make sure the part works, and you can return or exchange it if it doesn't. Be sure to ask about the warranty when buying. Sometimes you can even buy an extended warranty.
For more peace of mind, check out our post on affordable warranties for used auto parts.
How to Make the Most of Junkyards
Going to a junkyard can be a great way to find quality parts at affordable prices. If you’re visiting for the first time, bring basic tools, gloves, and a flashlight. Plan ahead by checking the junkyard's inventory online to save time. Here are some more tips to get the best deal on a used car grill:
- Check Inventory Online: Many salvage yards list their inventory online, which can save you time. You can use the U-Pull-It website to find participating yards and see available parts.
- Timing is Key: Some junkyards have special discount days. Learn about the best days to visit here.
- Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask about the grill’s history or condition. Most yards will also help make sure the part will fit your car.
Common FAQs About Buying Used Car Grills
What are the benefits of buying a used car grill from a junkyard compared to a new one?
Buying a used grill saves you money—up to 75% off the cost of a new part. Plus, you often get OEM quality parts that fit perfectly and are reliable.
How can I ensure the used car grill I find at a junkyard is in good condition?
Check for visible cracks, dents, and rust. Bring your old part or a picture to compare, and always ask about warranty coverage.
What tools do I need to remove a used car grill from a junk car?
You’ll need screwdrivers, a socket set, a pry bar, and protective gear to safely remove the part.
Are there any warranties available on used car grills from junkyards?
Yes, many salvage yards offer 30-90 day warranties on used parts. Some even have extended warranty options available.
How do I identify the right part when visiting a junkyard?
Use your vehicle’s VIN number or ask the junkyard to use their interchange system. Bringing the old part or a picture also helps.
Final Thoughts
Buying a used car grill from a junkyard is one of the smartest ways to save money on car repairs. With the tools and information you need, you can find high-quality used parts that fit your budget and keep your car looking great. Visit U-Pull-It to explore our network of junkyards and salvage yards and find the parts you need at affordable prices today.
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