Author: DexOne

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Common Myths About Used Auto Parts

 

When you replace a part in your vehicle, you must choose between store-bought or brand new. However, several myths and misconceptions surrounding used auto parts can lead to confusion and hesitation among car owners. Separating fact from fiction is essential to make informed decisions about the quality, reliability, and benefits of using used auto parts.

By dispelling these misconceptions, you can gain more clarity and knowledge to confidently consider and utilize used auto parts for vehicle repairs or upgrades. Here are some common debunked myths about used auto parts that can challenge your perception of this alternative.

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Common Pitfalls To Avoid When Shopping for Pre-Owned Car Parts

For many automotive enthusiasts, the salvage yard is usually a treasure trove, where they can unearth valuable car parts at a fraction of their original cost. Nevertheless, navigating this expansive ocean of metal and machinery can present numerous challenges for first-time shoppers. The thrill of the hunt can quickly turn into a game of risk if you aren’t aware of what mistakes to avoid.

Discover two common pitfalls to be on the lookout for when scouring through a salvage yard for used car parts.

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Most Commonly Replaced Car Parts

Over time, various components within a vehicle undergo wear and tear, which is a natural consequence of regular usage. These components can become less efficient, compromising the overall performance and safety of the vehicle. Here are the most commonly replaced parts.

Battery

One prevalent issue with car batteries is sulfation, where lead sulfate crystals accumulate on the battery plates, hindering efficient chemical reactions. Another problem is battery corrosion, resulting from acidic leaks and causing poor electrical connections. Low electrolyte levels can also affect the battery’s ability to function optimally.

Several signs indicate the need for battery replacement. One notable indicator is slow engine cranking, suggesting a weakened battery unable to provide sufficient power to start the car. Dimming headlights and interior lights during vehicle operation indicate a dwindling charge. Furthermore, a foul smell or visible corrosion around the battery terminals calls for immediate attention.

Exterior Lights

One common problem is a burnt-out bulb, which results in a lack of illumination. This issue can be identified by inspecting the lights regularly and noticing any dimness or complete darkness. Flickering lights are another sign of a potential problem, often caused by loose connections or a failing bulb. If the lights become excessively dim over time, it might suggest aging bulbs that need replacement.

Drivers should also be attentive to any abnormal coloration in the lights, as it may indicate a damaged lens or water infiltration. Cracked or broken lenses can obstruct light output and must be replaced promptly. Corrosion on the bulb socket or wiring can lead to poor electrical contact, affecting light functionality.

Alternator

One of the primary signs of a failing alternator is dimming or flickering headlights. When the alternator fails to provide a steady flow of electricity, the headlights may appear dimmer or fluctuate in brightness. Another indicator is a weak or dead battery. If the alternator isn’t functioning properly, it fails to recharge the battery, causing it to lose power quickly.

Furthermore, squealing noises from the engine compartment could signify a damaged alternator belt. The alternator relies on a belt to rotate and generate electricity. A frayed or loose belt can lead to charging issues. Difficulty starting the vehicle or stalling while driving are other red flags.

City Auto Wreckers is the go-to place for superior quality used car parts in Chicago and surrounding areas. Our friendly, passionate, and knowledgeable team is always ready to assist with any questions or concerns. Contact us for junkyard and salvage yard services.

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7 Factors to Consider When Selecting a Buyer for Your Junk Vehicle

Do you have a junk vehicle in your yard? A junk vehicle can be an environmental hazard and waste precious space on your property. The best option is to sell the vehicle to a junkyard and get some money. However, not all junkyards are the same; some may provide more money and better services than others.

Below are seven factors to consider when selecting a junkyard for your old car.

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The Most Expensive Car Parts to Repair or Replace

Your car is a vital part of your day-to-day activities. The vehicle helps you maneuver around, so you likely want it to always be in the best shape.

However, while cars are built to last, your vehicle may eventually succumb to wear, perhaps due to age, mileage, or accidents. Therefore, you must repair or replace the worn-out parts to ensure your safety and that of your passengers.

But car repair or parts replacement is not always the wisest way out, especially if the repair costs exceed or are almost equal to your car’s value. Discover some of the most expensive car parts to repair or replace.

The Engine

This component is like your car’s heart. The engine converts burning gas heat into your car’s energy to move the wheels and power other parts. As such, if the engine fails, your vehicle is as good as dead.

Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to replace the engine and its components. Considering how vital this car part is, it’s no surprise that the engine is the most expensive to repair, and you may even spend more if you own a truck or SUV.

Battery

Like the engine, your car battery powers your car to keep most components moving. So, if the battery dies, your vehicle cannot run efficiently.

Hybrid cars, to be precise, primarily depend on the electric energy batteries create, which explains the high cost of battery replacement. Furthermore, hybrid cars are relatively new in the market, meaning that accessing the battery may take time.

Transmission

The transmission transfers power from the engine to other car components, such as the wheel. This process facilitates the adjustment of the gear ratio between the wheels and the engine when you decide to either speed up or slow down.

Therefore, when the transmission fails, you may notice slipping and grinding and odd noises, and the gear may start to shift. All these issues impair your car’s movement and make the vehicle unsafe to drive.

Due to the transmission’s location and surrounding components, repairing or replacing this component can be labor-intensive. Also, sourcing this component is usually expensive.

Suspension

A car suspension is protective gear for the driver. This part has a shock absorber to absorb impact when driving on bumpy roads to give you a smooth driving experience.

Nonetheless, while the suspension itself is not as costly, the component features a range of other expensive and labor-intensive systems.

AC Compressor

The air conditioner is a critical car component for a comfortable and healthy driving experience. The AC has a compressor that facilitates the transition from low to high pressure when cooling your car.

The AC compressor may fail for numerous reasons, such as engine belt failure or a broken valve. And although the cost of repair depends on the cause and extent of damage, be ready to part with a few thousand to restore the component’s efficiency.

The cost of repairing or replacing different car parts mostly depends on the car model and the cause of damage. But the parts above are more expensive to repair, with some going for up to tens of thousands. In such a case, before you decide if repairs are the best choice, first assess the value of your car, then compare it to the repair costs.

If the repair cost is more than the value of your car, let a reliable car wrecker pick up the vehicle for junking. You can trust us at City Auto Wreckers for all your car junking needs. We offer cash for cars to help you get rid of old vehicles while ensuring you make a decent amount. Contact us for a consultation.

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7 Signs That It’s Time to Junk Your Car

Your car is a valuable asset that makes your life more convenient. If the car has any problems, you can call a mechanic to do the necessary repairs. However, some problems may render your vehicle useless. Read on to learn the signs that your vehicle has become junk. 

1. Rust Appears on Most of the Car

The presence of rust indicates that your vehicle is about to become junk. Rust on your vehicle develops when oxygen and water combine with materials on the vehicle. If you don’t intervene quickly, the rust will expand to other vehicle parts.

You can remove rust from your vehicle if the damage is minimal. However, if most of the car is covered in rust, your only action may be to junk the vehicle.

2. The Car Is Too Old

Your car is not going to be operational forever. At some point, the vehicle will reach its expiration date. Your vehicle’s expiration date depends on the model and design. 

Age, mileage, and maintenance also play a part in the lifespan of a car. For example, vehicles start to break down after driving for more than 100,000 miles.

3. Repairs Have Become Costly 

When the cost of repairs becomes greater than the cost of the car, you should probably junk your vehicle. For instance, tires can be very expensive, and replacing them every few months can be very costly. 

Similarly, car maintenance processes, such as oil changes, may require a lot of money. If all these costly repairs happen within a short time, maybe you should spend the money on another car.

4. The Insurance Company Refuses to Pay for a Totaled Car

The insurance company should pay for most of your car’s repairs after a road accident. However, if the company refuses to pay, you may have to junk your vehicle. The decision by the insurance company may be because the cost of repairs is higher than your car’s value.

5. The Brakes Fail to Work

Dysfunctional brakes are a serious problem that can cause road accidents. The brakes may start to become weaker and gradually make it more difficult to bring your car to a stop. If you don’t take any measures, the brakes can stop working in the middle of the highway. Such a situation can easily turn catastrophic. 

6. The Car Breaks Down Frequently

Does your vehicle break down every time you travel? Nobody likes to be stranded on the side of the road waiting for a towing truck. Even if you can get quick roadside assistance, frequent vehicle breakdowns are an inconvenience.

Similarly, if your vehicle frequently breaks down, it can produce leaking fluids that can be an environmental hazard. In some cases, the vehicle may even emit harmful gasses after breaking down.

7. The Car Has a Poor Safety Rating

The latest vehicle models tend to have better safety ratings than older models. Thus, an older vehicle may have fewer safety features and be a road safety hazard. While the vehicle may be working properly, you can junk it to avoid endangering your life and that of other road users.

Your junk vehicle isn’t all that useless. The vehicle can fetch a good amount of money if you sell it to a scrap metal dealer. When you sell your junk vehicle, you help protect the environment and save space on your property.

City Auto Wreckers is one of the few companies that give you a good bargain for your junk vehicle. We will come to your place to inspect the vehicle and then tow it away. Contact us to get started.

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5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Leave a Junk Car on Your Property

Sometimes homeowners leave junk cars on their property instead of getting rid of them. Different people have different reasons for leaving junk cars on their property. Some homeowners usually claim that it’s because of their sentimental value, and others might have hope that they can still fix the vehicle. In some instances, homeowners may be too busy to take the car to a junkyard.

 

However, leaving a junk car on your property is not advisable. This article highlights five reasons you shouldn’t leave a junk car on your property.

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