When you own an older car, finding parts can be a challenge. The auto maker may no longer make new parts, or the parts may only be available by expensive special order from the dealer. Fortunately, you have several other options to get the parts you need to keep your older car on the road.

Aftermarket parts

Just because OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are no longer available, doesn't mean that another company hasn't stepped in to fill the gap. Aftermarket parts fit a wide variety of makes and models of vehicles. Many focus specifically on older cars or vehicles that are no longer in production. If your make, model, and year is relatively popular, you can likely find the part you need in a well-stocked auto parts store for much less than an OEM part would cost when ordered from the dealer. Even if you can't find the part locally, you may be able to order it online. Since multiple companies make aftermarket parts, there is competition that helps bring down the price.

Salvage yards

Salvage yards are a virtual cornucopia of used parts at a relatively low cost. Parts like seats and seatbelt assemblies, door handles and mirrors, and vehicle panels are some of the easiest to find since they don't wear out unless they are damaged in an accident. Items like transmissions and engines, which can be repaired or rebuilt if they have minor damage, can also be a good deal over ordering a brand new one. For mechanical parts, the key is to find a car like yours that was junked either due to severe body damage, or because the mechanical failure was in a different system than the one that you need a part for. Trim and similar parts are often best taken from cars that were junked due to mechanical failure. The good news is, many salvage yards keep a detailed inventory of what vehicles, and sometimes even what parts, they have on hand. You can contact companies like U Pull & Pay for more information.

Other owners

If your car has any type of popularity or following, chances are there is a club or at least an online forum for enthusiasts. Many of these also keep an active classifieds board going so that members can swap parts or sell the parts they don't need. If no one in the club or on the forum has the part you need, you can make a "part wanted" ad. Chances are, someone will step forward or point you in the direction you need to find the part you want.