It is OK to get a power steering pump from a salvage yard. However, you should consider if the pump is still in good condition and how long it will last you and your vehicle. Especially, since it is coming from the junkyard.
Do you want to change your vehicle's power steering pump, but you are considering how expensive the prices are? The cost of replacing a power steering pump can be so high that you might end up considering getting a power steering pump from a salvage yard. Salvage yards have lots of car parts from cars that were destroyed, considered junk, or just disposed of. The body of these parts might be beyond repair, but some of the parts can be usable. But, is it really worth it? Can you entrust your safety to the fate of car parts that you scrambled from a junkyard?
Getting a power steering pump from a salvage yard will save you a lot of money, but you also need to consider the longevity and reliability of the pump.
In this article, we'll go through the pros and cons of getting a power steering pump from salvage and if it is really worth it.
Is it OK to get a Power Steering Pump from Salvage?
It is OK to get a power steering pump from a salvage yard. However, you should confirm if the pump if the pump is good enough to be reused. During my college
days, money was hard to get and I always didn’t want to disturb my parents
over issues that I thought I could handle myself. Twice I’ve looked up to the
salvage yard to get a steering pump, some racks, cranks, and even brake parks.
There’s this salvage guy down the street who
always ensures that he gets me the best of these parts from those damaged cars.
The cars that these parts are gotten from have indeed been declared salvage,
but most times, some parts are still reusable.
As a car owner, you know that a functioning power steering system is essential for safe and comfortable driving. But when faced with a failing pump, the decision between buying new, opting for aftermarket parts, or venturing into the world of salvage can be very challenging.
Your concerns are numerous; will the cheaper options offer amazing levels of durability, or should just save up for months to buy the new ones? There are lots of disadvantages to buying used car parts or refurbished pumps, but if you can get one that is good, you should go for it.
The big question about getting a power steering pump from a salvage yard isn't just about whether it is right or wrong to get one. Of course, you can go for a power steering pump from the salvage yard if you can get a good one, and state laws don't prevent you from doing that. However, the bigger question lies in whether you will be able to find a usable power steering pump from a salvage yard.
Advantages of Getting Power Steering Pump from Salvage
Here are some advantages of getting a Power Steering Pump from a salvage yard;
1. You will save some money buying a pump from a salvage yard
2. Reusing parts is an eco-friendly and environmentally-friendly option
3. You will find pumps that are compatible with older or discontinued models
Disadvantages of Buying a Power Steering Pump from a Junk Yard
Here are more disadvantages of
buying a power steering pump from a junkyard:
1. The reliability is uncertain
2. You are not sure of the history of these pumps and the condition of the cars they come from.
3. Salvage power steering pump may not be compatible with the specific model of your car.
4. Limited or No Warranty
How long do aftermarket power steering pumps last?
Aftermarket power steering pumps can last up to 60,000 to 100,000 miles. However, certain factors come into play in this. The quality of the pump, the previous condition of the car it was pulled from, and the manufacturing standard of the pump play a great role in determining how long it will last. Your maintenance culture and how well the pumps are installed can also impact how long they will last.
Can a Power Steering Pump be Rebuilt?
Yes. A Power Steering Pump can be rebuilt. You can rebuild a power steering pump, but there are certain factors that you need to consider before doing that. Rebuilding a power steering pump is a good way to save money, but you will need professional rebuilders to help you achieve that. Not just anyone can rebuild a power steering pump. This is because while their primary aim revolves around ensuring that the power steering pump works, they must also ensure that the pump meets OEM specifications and other reliable standards. The rebuilder will have to use high-quality parts, and superior performance levels, all of which must guarantee longevity and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I check when buying a used power steering pump?
There are lots of things that you should check for when you are buying a used power steering pump. Some of the things to check for include; signs of leakage, corrosion, or damage on the pulley and hose. You must check that the pump runs smoothly and no noise is emitted from the pump during operation. Don't forget to confirm the compatibility of the pump with your vehicle's make and model.
Are there any specific models or years of vehicles to avoid when sourcing a used power steering pump?
There are some specific car models and years that you should avoid when sourcing a used power steering pump. Most of these car models are those that were recalled due to certain safety reasons or engineering flaws. Buying a used pump from cars with known issues can complicate things for you.
In fact, avoid buying used pumps from cars that have known steering system problems or were recalled for similar reasons. You might need to carry out some research yourself to figure out some of the specific models and years of vehicles that you should avoid. The list is endless.
Is there a warranty on power steering pumps from salvage yards?
Yes, there is. There are warranty policies on power steering pumps from salvage yards, but this varies based on what the salvage yard is offering. You might get a limited warranty or a short-term guarantee from some salvage yards, while some might sell to you without a warranty. Make sure you always inquire about the
warranty terms from the salvage yard before making a purchase.
How can I verify the quality of a salvage power steering pump before installation?
To verify the quality of a power steering pump before installation, you can perform a visual inspection on the power steering pump. Check for damages, and confirm smooth operation of the power steering turning the pulley. You can take a professional mechanic along with you for a more experienced inspection.
What is the cost difference between a salvage power steering pump and a new one?
The cost difference between a salvage power steering pump and a new one is usually between 50% to 75%. The price of a salvage power steering pump is usually 50 - 75% less than what you will buy a new one, but this on various factors. Some factors that decide the cost difference between a salvage and a new power steering pump include the condition of the pump and its market demand.
CONCLUSION
Buying a power steering pump from a salvage yard isn't an entirely bad thing to do. We are only concerned about your chances of getting a good one. Do you know that most drivers, instead of taking their cars to the salvage yard, decide to rebuild them and apply for a rebuilt title? Read more about Rebuilt titles: Pros and Cons and if you should buy a car with one.
Here's also an article about the possibility of changing a car to an all-wheel drive, you might love to read it.