Mechanics Say You Should Never Skimp on These Car Parts
While saving money may always seem like the best option, it should never come at the detriment of your safety. There’s no denying that car parts can be incredibly expensive, but there is a reason for the price. Let’s take a look at some car parts that you should never buy for cheap, according to experts.
Brake Pads
This one shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise. When it comes to breaking, you never want to take any chances. After all, you are driving a metal machine at incredibly high speeds. While cheap brake pads may look the same as more expensive ones, the structural composition is what really matters.
Brake Rotors
Chances are that cheaper brake rotors are made from more malleable materials, which increases their chances of warping. In the long run, this is likely to interfere with your vehicle's ability to stop smoothly.
Timing Belts
Timing belts are designed to keep your engine's components synchronized. A cheap or faulty timing belt can be catastrophic for your car, making it a risk not worth taking.
Tires
It’s essential to invest in tires that provide maximum traction, keeping your car firmly on the ground. Cheap tires are likely to be made from a softer rubber, which disintegrates more quickly.
Batteries
Car batteries degrade over time. If you buy a cheap car battery, chances are that it is secondhand or made using poor-quality materials. If it is the latter, it won’t last you very long, which means that you’ll end up spending more for a decent battery anyway.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs play a crucial role in engine ignition and fuel efficiency. While cheaper options may be appealing, they are likely to disrupt your car's performance by causing rough starts or misfires.
Alternators
The alternator is responsible for your car's electronics and keeping its battery charged. By opting for a cheaper product, you run the risk of draining your battery or frying your electrical circuit - neither of which is worth the risk of saving a few bucks.
Fuel Injectors
Fuel injectors deliver fuel to your engine. Obviously, without them, your car isn’t going anywhere. For this reason, it's always recommended to invest in good-quality injectors that cost a bit more.
Oil Filters
While an oil filter may seem like a simple part, it plays an integral role in your vehicle. By purchasing a cheap filter, you run the risk of allowing dirt particles to pass through into your engine, which will have catastrophic consequences.
Head Gaskets
Cheaper head gaskets are likely to be made out of malleable and unreliable materials, preventing them from sealing properly. This can lead to severe engine damage over time, making the risk simply not worth it.
Shocks and Struts
Poor-quality shocks and struts can lead to reduced handling abilities, increased wear on your tires, and an unpleasant overall ride experience.