When people think about used car parts, they usually imagine engines, tires, bumpers, or transmissions. But did you know there’s an entire market for some of the strangest, most unexpected secondhand car parts you can buy? From quirky vintage accessories to airplane-inspired car mods, the auto parts industry is full of surprises.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast looking for a unique upgrade or just curious about what’s out there, we’ve compiled a list of the weirdest used car parts you probably never knew existed.
1. Used Police Sirens and Light Bars
Ever wanted to feel like you’re in a high-speed chase (without breaking the law)? Believe it or not, old police sirens and emergency light bars are sold in the secondhand market. Of course, using them on public roads is illegal, but they’re often repurposed for movie props, car shows, or private security vehicles.
💡 Fun Fact: Some buyers install old sirens in their garages just for the sound effects!
2. Airplane Seatbelt Buckles in Cars
Car modders love unique seatbelt buckles, and some have taken inspiration from the aviation industry! You can find used airplane seatbelt buckles repurposed for custom car seatbelt systems.
✈️ Why? Some enthusiasts say they are more durable and stylish than regular car seatbelt buckles.
3. Vintage Hood Ornaments from the 1920s & 1930s
Hood ornaments used to be a symbol of luxury and class, and some of the most sought-after used car parts are the ornate, hand-crafted ornaments from vintage cars.
🚘 Popular ones include:
- The Rolls-Royce Spirit of Ecstasy
- The Jaguar Leaper
- The Packard Swan
These are often collected or used to restore classic cars to their original grandeur.
4. Repurposed Car Engines… as Coffee Tables?
Some car lovers don’t just use engines to power their cars—they turn them into furniture! Used V8, V12, and even rotary engines have been transformed into coffee tables, desks, and bar counters.
🏡 Where to Buy? Many specialty shops now sell used engines for decorative purposes, making them the ultimate conversation piece for car lovers.
5. Bulletproof Car Doors and Windows
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a car as secure as a bank vault, you can actually buy used bulletproof doors and windows from armored vehicles. These are usually salvaged from decommissioned security vehicles, military SUVs, or VIP transport cars.
🔫 Why People Buy Them? Some car owners retrofit their vehicles for security purposes, while others just want bragging rights!
6. Used Taxi Meters and Fare Signs
Ever wanted your car to look like an old-school New York City cab? You can actually buy used taxi meters, roof signs, and fare rate displays from decommissioned taxis. Some car collectors use them for fun, while others turn them into unique room décor.
🚕 Fun Use Case: Some people install taxi meters in their cars just for laughs—imagine making your friends “pay” for a ride!
7. Steering Wheels from Famous Movie Cars
Some of the coolest used car parts on the market are steering wheels from iconic movie cars! If you’re a fan of Fast & Furious, Mad Max, or James Bond films, you might be able to own a piece of Hollywood car history.
🎬 Where to Find Them? Specialty auction sites and movie prop sellers sometimes list these rare pieces for sale.
8. Car Horns That Play Music
Forget regular honking—how about a car horn that plays the theme from Dukes of Hazzard, La Cucaracha, or even Beethoven’s 5th Symphony?
📢 Used novelty car horns are surprisingly popular and can be found in salvage yards or online shops specializing in car modifications.
9. Classic Car Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighters
Older cars were built with built-in cigarette lighters and ashtrays, and some of these have become sought-after used car parts—especially the luxurious gold or silver-plated ones from classic Rolls-Royces and Bentleys.
🚬 Why People Buy Them? Many collectors like restoring classic car interiors to their original condition, and these small details matter.
10. Pre-Loved Fuzzy Dice and Dashboard Accessories
You can’t have a vintage car aesthetic without a pair of fuzzy dice hanging from your rearview mirror! Surprisingly, people still buy vintage fuzzy dice, dashboard bobbleheads, and other quirky car accessories secondhand.
🎲 Fun Fact: The tradition of fuzzy dice dates back to World War II pilots who hung dice in their planes for good luck!
Final Thoughts
The world of used car parts isn’t just about practical repairs—it’s full of weird, wonderful, and unexpected finds. Whether you’re looking for a bulletproof door, a vintage hood ornament, or a taxi meter for your home, the secondhand car parts industry has something for everyone.
So next time you’re browsing for used auto parts, keep an eye out—you might just find something truly out of the box!
