I previously wrote about when it might be okay to buy used tires. However, not every car part can be bought secondhand. There are some instances where car parts can be safely bought pre-owned, but others pose a serious risk to your safety and the overall reliability of your vehicle. So, here are six car parts that you should not ever buy secondhand.
1. Brakes
Used brakes are a no-no. Your brakes are one of the most critical safety features of any car and they wear a lot over time. While it might seem like an economical choice, it could cause a serious accident. Even if they look like they are in good condition, used brakes can’t be trusted. They’ll put you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road at risk.
2. Tires
As mentioned in my previous post, there are some specific instances where you might be able to get away with a used tire. Unless you’re using it for a spare or only need one tire for the time being or you’re off-roading, you probably shouldn’t buy used tires. It can be risky. Not to mention, tires have a shelf life. Believe it or not, older tires, whether they’ve been used or not, are prone to cracking and failure. It is always best to invest in a new set of tires.
3. Airbags
There is never any situation where it would be okay to put a used airbag in your car. This is because there is no way to know if the airbag has been previously deployed or not. You also won’t be able to tell if the internal sensors have been compromised. Additionally, reinstalled airbags may not function properly in a car crash. It’s best not to gamble with your life and buy critical parts like this new.
4. Battery
Secondhand batteries will save you some money upfront, but it will honestly wind up costing you more in the long run. You will undoubtedly have to buy a new one sooner than you would a new battery. It’s also common for secondhand batteries to fail without any warning, which could leave you stranded. A new battery will come with a warranty and will last you several years, so it’s always better to invest in a new one.
5. Suspension Components
Your suspension isn’t anything to play with either. These parts undergo near-constant stress from the condition of the road and driving habits. They wear out over time and a secondhand part will likely be weakened or damaged. This can impact the way your vehicle handles and could even lead to dangerous driving conditions. Bad suspension could impact everything from the comfort of the ride to the efficiency of your brakes. Getting these parts new is really crucial for your vehicle’s performance and safety.
6. Windshield
Never, ever get a windshield secondhand. It might sound like a good way to save money, but it will only cause you heartache in the end. A salvaged windshield might have hidden cracks or chips that will impact the overall integrity of the glass. If you were to get into an accident, it could shatter on impact. For optimal visibility and safety, always choose a new windshield installed by professionals to meet safety standards.
It’s Tempting to Cut Costs
Sometimes it can be tempting to save money by purchasing secondhand car parts, but certain things should only be bought new. You don’t want to buy things like brakes, airbags, and other essentials used. Make your safety a priority and invest in new parts for these critical components.