You’re faced with a major Auto repair such as an engine, transmission, or differential replacement. Your service provider asks you, “Do you want Rebuilt, Remanufactured, or used parts?”

The price differences are significant. To make an educated decision, you first need to know how these three solutions to the same problem compare. And secondly, which one is best for your situation?

First, let’s identify the differences between these three choices.

Rebuilt parts

If you choose Rebuilt Parts, the rebuilder will use your vehicle’s old part and replace just the worn components. If your vehicle’s old part cannot be rebuilt because it is too worn, he/she will use a part from another vehicle (referred to as a ‘core’). If a core is used, than he will replace only what is needed in the core.

For example, if an engine is rebuilt, maybe just the bearings and piston rings need replacing (the original crankshaft, pistons, and connecting rods would be used). This approach, in lieu of using new or Remanufactured Parts, usually saves the customer money.

Remanufactured parts

What is a remanufactured part? The term remanufactured usually (not always) refers to a part that, for all practicable purposes, has been completely remanufactured to the standard of a new part.

Using a remanufactured engine as an example, mechanical tolerances have been restored either by re-machining, or by installing the necessary mechanical inserts to restore original mechanical tolerances. Either way, the engine meets the standard for OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) tolerances, durability, and quality.

New pistons, connecting rods, rings, bearings, camshafts, lifters, and oil pump are installed. All related bearing surfaces are restored, and the upper half of the engine, such as the cylinder heads, are rebuilt. Usually the only component from the old engine that is used is the body (or casting, usually referred to as a ‘core’). And this part is only used if it is in top-notch condition, to assure longevity of the service.

These same rules apply to other remanufactured Auto Parts, whatever they may be. You will find that remanufactured auto parts usually carry a longer and stronger warranty, covering parts and labor for longer periods of time, compared to rebuild parts. AOL Autos: Best car deals of the month

Used parts

What about used auto parts? Let me start with a well known Latin expression, “Caveat Emptor.” Translation? “Let the buyer beware.” YES, used auto parts have their place in Auto Repair. And NO, I am not discouraging the use of used parts. BUT, be careful when buying them!

There are many respected salvage yards that take pride in their businesses and in serving their valued customers. 

So what should you use?

Rebuilt parts, remanufactured parts, or used parts? When selecting auto parts for an effective auto repair, first determine exactly what plan you have in mind for your vehicle. To keep it long term? Mid term? Or to “get by” until next spring when you replace it?

For most of us who do not work on our own vehicles, it is our service advisor’s job to determine what we need based on our plan for the vehicle. Our responsibility lies in communicating this information! Only then can he/she find the right parts for an effective repair based on our budget, needs, and goals.

All these factors come into play to help you make a wise repair decision. So make sure that you have a trusted advisor leading you through such significant repair decisions.

Taken from: http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/08/29/aa.auto.repair/index.html?eref=rss_latest