For more than two decades, WAMS has followed a simple rule: if a component is available brand-new from GM with a verifiable warranty, that is the only version we will supply. While competitors almost exclusively offer used, pull out, second hand or “refurbished” modules, our pricing for new GM parts is often very close to what others charge for salvage. In many cases, the difference is far smaller than people expect.
So the real question is this: when the cost is similar, why would anyone choose a used module with an unknown history over a brand-new GM part with a factory warranty? The answer becomes clear once you understand how these components behave and what risks come with salvage hardware.
Brand-New GM Parts Behave Predictably
GM modules are tightly integrated with the electrical architecture of the vehicle. Brand-new units arrive exactly as intended: clean, unprogrammed, and never exposed to voltage irregularities, moisture, jump-start damage, prior programming attempts, or general wear. Their behavior is consistent and aligned with GM’s expectations.
Used units tell a different story. They may have thousands of hours of heat cycles, intermittent bus issues, previous faults, firmware mismatches, or subtle electronic degradation. None of this is disclosed by salvage sellers, and none of it is visible to the customer until the part is installed or shortly thereafter.
Predictability matters. New GM parts provide it. Salvage parts do not.
New GM Parts Include Real Warranty Support
Every new component WAMS sells is backed by GM’s warranty and is registered to your VIN. This provides documented provenance, parts traceability, and access to manufacturer support should it ever be required.
Used modules offer none of this. If a salvage unit fails, your only recourse is whatever return window the reseller chooses to offer. There is no manufacturer involvement, no validation that the part was ever correct for your application, and no assurance that the underlying hardware was sound to begin with.
When dealing with modules that control large parts of your vehicle such as clusters, displays, cameras, connectivity, and other critical functions, warranty-backed hardware is simply the right choice.
The Price Difference Is Smaller Than Most People Think
Many customers assume new GM parts are dramatically more expensive. In reality, our pricing is often close to what competitors charge for salvage or “remanufactured” components. In some cases, new parts cost less than what others are selling used pieces for.
In other words, the perceived savings behind buying salvage frequently does not exist. When new OEM hardware is available at a competitive price, there is no practical reason to accept the compromises of used modules.
Used Modules Introduce Hidden Risks
Salvage modules often appear functional at first but develop issues later. Common problems include:
- random reboots or intermittent display failures
- VIN-locked or partially cleared data
- mismatched firmware levels
- degraded flash memory
- CAN communication irregularities
- solder-joint fatigue from years of heat cycling
- corrosion from sitting outside unprotected
These issues can be time-consuming to diagnose and may not present immediately. New GM modules eliminate these variables entirely.
“Refurbished” Often Means Nothing More Than Cleaned Salvage
Despite how competitors market them (or in most cases dont even disclose they are salvage), there is no standardized remanufacturing process for most GM electronics sold online. Most “refurbished” units are simply salvage pulls that have maybe been cleaned, reset, repackaged, and relabeled.
This does not restore hardware integrity, address latent defects, or guarantee correct behavior.
OEM-Level Programming Requires OEM-Condition Hardware
The programming and configuration work WAMS performs is engineered around known-good, brand-new GM components. Starting with predictable hardware is essential for reliable results. Salvage parts introduce unnecessary variables that compromise the consistency and stability of the final installation.
The Long-Term Value Favors New Parts
When you factor in warranty coverage, hardware lifespan, reliability, correct calibration behavior, platform compatibility, and long-term serviceability, new GM parts are the clear choice. They offer better value, better performance, and fewer issues over the life of the vehicle.
For these reasons, WAMS will always use brand-new GM modules whenever they are available. It is the only approach that aligns with OEM-level standards and ensures the customer receives a product that performs as designed from day one.
If you’re considering a replacement module and want OEM-level behavior, warranty support, and predictable long-term operation, new GM parts are always the correct choice. For customers who need verified new GM components for their application, our OEM replacement parts catalog is available here: Replacement Parts and Modules