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I’ve found a used alternator for my 2001 car that I want to buy (it’s cheap on ebay) but I’m wondering if I should just buy the more expensive new part? Is a used part more likely to break or break down? Thanks

10 Comments »

1. 

   As a mechanic, i would NEVER recommend a used part.

   Come to think of it, I wouldnt EVER recommend an aftermarket or pattern part.

   You get what you pay for.

   False economy means bigger bills later.

   Comment by MARTYN — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

2. 

   anytime you buy used parts your taking a chance. your better off to buy new. that way you have a warranty on the parts.

   Comment by bandit_60 — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

3. 

   Does the used part come with a warranty? Ask the seller if you experience a problem with the alternator, what is the recourse of getting your money back? Use Paypal, at least they will warranty an item paid through them for about 45 days. But anytime you buy used on e-bay, you run a risk of having problems. Keep looking for a better price on a new alternator either on E-Bay or other auto part outlets online. Another alternative for you is to look for an armature repair shop in your area. They rebuild alternators and starters for local repair shops at a fraction of a new one plus you get at least 1 year warranty. Best bet!
   good luck……

   Comment by mailbox1024 — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

4. 

   no chances are the used wil always outlast the new cause the used 1 is oem part and the new 1 is a remanufactured 1 stay away from those

   Comment by Kyle — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

5. 

   If your alternator is worn out, it’s reasonable to assume a similar one will be also. On the other hand, it may be ok. If you buy the cheaper second hand one, maybe you can then shop around to get a good deal on reconditioning your old one.

   Comment by bikerwoody — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

6. 

   if there is a warranty there isn’t any risk

   Comment by Roger — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

7. 

   if the parts from the original manufacture of car it we’ll be good if other it we’ll be risky .

   Comment by AHMED — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

8. 

   Read the description on the ebay listing. The seller is responsible to describe the item as accurately they can. It nothing wrong with used alternator as long it was working when it was pulled. If its a good deal then you should buy it & won’t pay for any core charge & then have it tested at your local auto store for free to see if it working. Hope that Helps Good Luck.

   Comment by Juzwunazn — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

9. 

   The best way to save money on an alternator is to find a local shop that will repair it. You might be able to find a shop in you area by looking in the yellow pages. If you are willing to take the alternator out of the car and take it to the shop, it can many times be repaired for $20 or $40.

   Comment by Mike — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

10. 

    You already HAVE a used one! Of course it’s more likely to break, it’s got wear and tear on it, just like the one you’re replacing that was also new once. Many new alternators come with 2 year to lifetime warranty these days. Used ones typically come with 30 day warranties and ebay comes with nothing.

    Comment by Shaun — December 4, 2010 @ 1:54 am

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