Warranties on used or aftermarket car parts are generally stated in time and/or miles. For example, six months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first. But there is more to an auto parts warranty than the numbers, conditions are attached that can make or break a warranty. Before you jump at the chance for a cheap used engine or other used discount auto parts, take the time to review the warranty to see if its conditions and stipulations are something you can live with should a problem arise.
Whether you buy from an online dealer like LKQ Online or a local business, it’s best to make sure you understand warranties and return policies before you buy. Warranties vary not only by dealer, but also by the type of parts they cover, such as collision repair fenders and bumpers or fuel pumps and transmission repair, so do your homework to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Length of the warranty
Typical free or standard warranties are generally between 30 to 90 days for used or auto salvage parts. This can vary, of course, with six-month or one-year warranty offers as well as the option of purchasing extended warranty coverage on expensive parts such as remanufactured engines and transmissions.
· Warranty times can also be different on different used parts such as mechanical (engine, distributor), electrical (alternator, battery, starter), and collision repair exterior body parts.
· New aftermarket non-OEM replacement car parts frequently have a longer warranty than used parts.
· Any supplier that offers no warranty on used auto parts should be looked at very carefully.
Verify what is covered and what is excluded
Generally, labor is not covered. This means that if you find a defect within the stated warranty period for, say, a drive shaft you purchased, the part will be replaced but you’ll have to pay for installation again. However, a local shop that also supplied the part may warranty the used part as well as the labor. In most instances, used online auto parts purchases most likely will not include warranty for labor in their standard/free warranty coverage. Other considerations:
· Certain used vehicle parts may not be covered by warranty such as tires, seat belts, airbags, or parts sold “as is.”
· Accessory parts sent with a specific purchased part for convenience of installation may also be excluded from warranty coverage (hoses, gaskets, antennas).
· Return shipping may not be covered and some companies charge a 20% or more restocking fee for returned parts.
Check conditions and stipulations
Used car parts retailers often place restrictions on honoring warranties and return policies. In some cases, these stipulations can be very specific for how the used part is handled on your end. Here are a few common issues that can invalidate an auto parts warranty:
· If the part is not installed by a certified mechanic
· If the part is modified prior to installation
· If the part is used in a different vehicle than specified by the seller
· If installation directions that accompany the part are not followed
· If you attempt a return without the original sales receipt and documentation of the problem
Carefully read the written warranty before you purchase and make sure you understand all stipulations included in the warranty so that you don’t accidentally end up voiding it. Especially if it’s long and intimidating, you need to know exactly how any problems will be handled.
Ask about warranties before purchase
Chances are, your used auto parts will be exactly what you need to repair your car or truck, and return or warranty issues won’t come up. But an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so don’t leave yourself at risk. The bigger your investment, the more important it is to take the time to read and understand the warranty before you buy.