Parts is Parts - Engine Parts

Back in the days before electrical systems changed the way car parts are serviced, owners could tinker around the engine, change the alternator, a fan belt or brake pads with little trouble and the car would run until the next breakdown.  Today, car systems are much more complicated as most cars run on computer chips that have to be diagnosed much like a doctor runs an EKG on you to diagnose heart irregularities.

Optimize Performance with New Parts

New parts are much more expensive due to those computer chips.  You can't just simply throw on a new part and expect it to work until it wears out.  Like the human body, engine parts work systematically with each other to produce the best possible charges and run.  For optimum performance, newly administered engine parts should be regulated through the computer at the mechanic's shop to maintain longer life.  New engine parts generally come with a warranty if something goes awry with the part.

Use at Your Own Risk

Used engine parts you usually buy through a seller in a want ad or car list.  Although some auto shops have them in stock.  Used parts have been used but still have some life in them.  You buy used parts at your own risk, as there is usually no warranty attached to the part.  If you buy the used part at an auto shop, many times they may attach a limited warranty at extra charge.

Reconditioned parts are also known as rebuilt parts if you buy them in a store.  Alternators are one engine part that you can turn in to a store for credit and their servicemen can rebuild and sell again.  Reconditioned parts usually have a limited warranty through the store.  Some mechanics with their own garages also rebuild use parts for resale.  Most times, these have no warranty attached to them.  So unless you are restoring a 1959 Chevy or an old musclecar GTO, new parts may add longer life to your vehicle.