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Used car parts. Why buy new when you can buy used?

Publié le 9 December 2025 par Pistonelle Vectalia : date de mise à jour de l'article 9 December 2025

Furthermore, since January 1, 2017, vehicle maintenance and repair professionals have been required to offer used or recycled parts for certain categories of spare parts (Article L224-67 of the French Consumer Code). Using used spare parts is legal, as long as they meet the requirements set by national and European legislation.

So why buy new when you can buy used? There are several reasons. Cheaper parts: it goes without saying that these parts are sold for less than their new equivalents. Not necessarily inferior quality: most used parts are in very good condition; professionals in the resale market test them to ensure their quality.

Used car parts

There are several reasons to buy used spare parts rather than new ones. The more advantageous price is the most obvious reason, but not necessarily the only one. In many cases, used parts are just as good as new ones. And since they are often original parts, the quality can be even better. So why buy new when you can buy used?

Used auto parts can lead to significant discounts on repairs, generally 30 to 50%.

Where do used vehicle parts come from?

They often come from what are called ELV (End-of-Life Vehicle) centers. Every year, thousands of damaged, wrecked, or irreparable vehicles are brought to these centers. The parts from these cars are then cleaned, tested, and sold, for example, here: https://careconord-pieces-occasion.fr

But is all of this legal? Using used parts is legal as long as the requirements set by national and European legislation are met. So, if you’re thinking of buying used parts, go for it!

You said OEM! What is an OEM part? An OEM part is a replacement part for a vehicle of the same make as the one in which it will be installed (OEM stands for “Original Equipment Manufacturer”). So, for example, if you have a

Lada Niva 4×4 you can buy an OEM Lada Niva 4×4 part.

The advantage of OEM parts is that they are identical to the parts originally installed on your vehicle by the manufacturer. To learn more about the

difference between OEM and OE auto parts, click here.

  • Some manufacturers still distinguish between original parts and OEM parts: OE components are designed to fit many car models. OEM components, on the other hand, are produced specifically for a particular car manufacturer.
  • What are the disadvantages of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts?

Unfortunately, because they are original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, they often come with a hefty price tag. Additionally, finding the right part for your specific vehicle model can be challenging, as most dealerships don’t carry a wide selection of used OEM parts.

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to OEM parts, you can consider aftermarket parts. Aftermarket parts are designed to fit a wider range of makes and models, making them more readily available and generally less expensive. However, the quality of aftermarket parts can vary considerably, so be sure to check the following before purchasing:

The part is designed for your vehicle model.

The part meets or exceeds the manufacturer’s established quality standards.

The part comes from a reputable manufacturer.

Important notes about used OEM auto parts:

  • If you need new original parts for your vehicle, you must have the OEM part number to order them. The OEM part number identifies the part with its original characteristics and specifications. It is very important to get the correct OEM parts for your car so that everything fits perfectly and functions as intended.
  • What about car insurance and what is the warranty on used parts?
  • Used parts and car insurance generally go hand in hand. In most cases, your insurance company will reimburse you for the cost of repairs made using used parts, provided that these parts come from a reputable source and meet the quality standards set by the manufacturer. However, it is always best to check with your insurance company beforehand to be sure.
  • As for the warranty, it depends on the seller, but most reputable sellers offer a warranty on used parts. Be sure to check the warranty terms and conditions before purchasing.
  • What parts can the mechanic reuse for repairs?

The mechanic can reuse the following parts for repairs: removable body parts (doors, bumpers, etc.);interior trim and upholstery parts (seats, dashboard, etc.);

non-bonded glazing (side windows, glass sunroof);

optical parts (headlights, turn signals, etc.);

certain mechanical or electronic parts (except for parts related to safety devices, which must be replaced with new parts: parts that are part of the chassis, engine, engine control system, etc.);

filters, spark plugs,


particulate filter
Alternator belts, water pumps, and lubricants are not among the parts that can be offered as used parts.

FAQ on used auto parts:

What is the warranty on used parts?

Recycled used auto parts come with a six-month warranty, while the legal warranty for new parts is two years. The warranty of conformity is six months for used parts. For a remanufactured part, the supplier (manufacturer or recycler) may offer an additional six-month commercial warranty. Used parts may also be covered by the legal warranty against hidden defects for five years after purchase.

What is a used part? What are PIEC (Certified Environmentally Friendly Parts)?

Using used parts is legal as long as the requirements set by national and European legislation are met. So if you’re thinking about buying used parts, go for it! PIEC is a voluntary scheme that allows companies to certify that their products meet certain environmental standards. The PIEC logo on a product means that it has been certified by an independent body as environmentally friendly. Products bearing the PIEC logo are made from recycled materials.

Where can I find used car parts?

There are a number of places to find used car parts, including online marketplaces and local salvage yards.

How much do used car parts cost?

The price of used car parts varies depending on the part and the source. Generally, they are cheaper than new parts but more expensive than aftermarket parts.

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