Auto parts sales is one of the largest industries in the world. Makes sense since almost everyone in the world has an automobile except maybe in underdeveloped countries. Some auto parts wear out rather quickly such as oil filters. Some last a little longer like brake shoes and pads. And then you have parts that thank goodness don't wear out very often at all like transmissions or cars would be impossible to maintain cost wise.
The junkyard - You can save a mint by visiting your local salvage yard for a "new" bumper or a replacement radiator. True, you could buy these items new but you'll pay a bundle for each part. The more common your model, the more likely your junkyards near me has what you want. Best of all, many modern day yards computer inventory all of their salvaged vehicles so a simple call to the yard can reveal whether that model is there or not.
The rest of our living space was one 10 x 12 room, which had been configured to include the 3 ft square shower, the shower curtain of which faced the living room, and the only bathroom. The, so-called, bathroom had only a toilet stool and a small sink. It's door opened into the living room. The washing machine would have to be in, what was left of, the living room, too.
Whenever salvage car yards near me threaten to drive me toward the emotional salvage yard, my faith and trust in God's Word crafts an overhaul of my soul. It includes a warranty offered by God, the master mechanic--coverage for any future malfunctions in life. In large print, the guarantee reads: NO EXPIRATION - PAID IN FULL BY MY SON, JESUS.
Let us start with ease of obtaining. Obviously newer car parts will be easier to get than older ones. A friend of mine still has a 1975 Pontiac Lemans. To obtain parts for this car he has to literally go to junk yards and even online. No new car dealers keep parts beyond 10 years or so and even auto parts stores limit their inventory to cars under 20 years. A 30 year old vehicle is almost impossible to find parts for. Plus, if you can find the part, depending on where you get it, the cost could be anywhere from 20 to 100% over the original part cost. To say that late model car owners are taken advantage of would be a gross understatement.
My husband's sudden unemployment threatened to drown us in financial ruin. But God's reminder lifted me to safety: "...When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you" Isaiah 41:1.