Auto wreckers or auto dismantlers have been a vital part of the U.S. economy and the environment for more than 60 years. Car owners are increasingly looking for used car parts rather than new parts for repairs and maintenance. There are many reasons for this shift, but the main one is probably cost-savings. Buying used parts rather than new parts saves on average about 55%.

With the growth of the used parts market, the selection and availability of parts has also expanded. It's fairly easy these days to find used parts that meet the needs of your car in terms of quality, function and fit.

In the past, only the lucky people who lived near a parts supplier could find good prices on used parts. Now, thanks to the Internet and some auto-parts companies, nearly everyone has the same access to working parts at reduced prices.

Though they had to pay the often exorbitant markups such suppliers commanded, lots of people didn't even have that option. So from being a sellers market a total change took place, thanks to a handful of top automotive aftermarket experts with an excellent understanding of e-commerce.

The internet has definately become the number one place to find auto parts of all types. Everybody can reach it in matter of minutes and the prices have decreased significantly. These websites are global marketplaces for precisely the vehicle parts you need. This remarkable next-generation solutions stands in a huge contrast to the days when a few auto part dealers were able to treat their customers like puppets on a string.

Auto salvage yards, as their name suggests, specialise in salvaging autos, or more specifically auto parts. The way that they work is simple; they take junk cars and strip them down, keeping any parts that are still in working order.

These parts are then sold to anyone who wants to buy them at a much lower price than a new part would be. You could find the part that you are looking for, and save yourself a lot of money. Of course, it would be ideal if you could fit the part on your car yourself, but just buying the part from an auto salvage yard can save you a considerable amount even if you have to pay a mechanic to fit it.

Online auction sites are another great source for used auto parts. EBay Motors, for example, offers a wide selection of auto parts, including items for classic cars. Wherever you look online, chances are very good that you'll find exactly what you need at a decent price.