Core Exchange Program

Last updated: May 17, 2026

This is not a return policy. The Core Exchange Program is how you get your core deposit refunded after you receive a remanufactured part. If you want to send a part back for a refund of the purchase price, see our Return Policy — different rules apply.

What a core is

A "core" is the old, worn-out version of the remanufactured part you bought — your old starter, alternator, brake caliper, power steering pump, rack and pinion, steering gearbox, or CV axle. We take that core, rebuild it to OE specification, and put it back into circulation. Without used cores coming back to us, we can't keep remanufactured prices 30–60% below dealer list.

What the core deposit is

On most remanufactured parts, a refundable core deposit (typically $20–$200, shown on the product page before you order) is added to your order total at checkout. This deposit is what you get back when you send your old part to us through the Core Exchange Program.

How the Core Exchange Program works

  1. You order a remanufactured part. The core deposit is added at checkout. Your order confirmation includes an RGA number (Return Goods Authorization) — keep it.
  2. You install the new part. Remove the old part from your vehicle in one piece. Don't disassemble it. Drain any oil, hydraulic fluid, or coolant.
  3. You pack the old core in the original box. The box and packing materials your new part came in are the right size and protect the core in transit.
  4. You ship the core back to us at your expense. Within 30 days of delivery of the new part, ship the core via a tracked, insured method (UPS, FedEx, or USPS). Write the RGA number clearly on the outside of the carton. Email [email protected] for the return address if it isn't on your paperwork.
  5. We inspect the core. Inspection takes 3–5 business days from arrival. Approved cores are refunded to your original payment method within 5–10 business days after inspection passes.

Core requirements (read before you ship)

For your core deposit to be refunded in full, the core must be:

  • The same part number as the unit you purchased. Wrong-application cores cannot be rebuilt.
  • Complete. Include every bolt, bracket, pulley, reservoir, and small part that shipped with the new unit. Missing components reduce the refund.
  • Undisassembled. Don't take the unit apart "to see what was wrong." A disassembled core cannot be rebuilt.
  • Rebuildable. No cracked housings, no fire damage, no catastrophic internal failure that exceeds normal rebuild recovery.
  • Drained of fluids. Carriers may refuse leaking packages and charge hazmat fees.
  • In transit within 30 days of delivery. Past 30 days, the core deposit is forfeit.

Partial refunds and core rejections

If a core arrives missing components, damaged beyond rebuild, or wrong-application, we will email you photos before reducing or denying the deposit refund. You will have 5 business days to dispute. If you can show the issue existed before you shipped, we honor the full refund.

Frequently asked questions

Do you include a prepaid return label?
No. The customer pays return shipping on the core. This is how we keep the price of the new remanufactured part lower than competitors who bundle a prepaid label into the sticker price.

Is the 15% restocking fee charged on cores?
No. The Core Exchange Program is separate from our standard returns. The 15% restocking fee in our Return Policy only applies to normal returns of the purchased part — not to core deposit refunds.

What if the part I bought didn't have a core charge?
Then there's nothing to exchange. Some new parts and some categories (consumables, wear items) don't carry a core charge. The product page shows the core charge before you order — if it's $0, you have no Core Exchange Program obligation.

The 30-day clock — does it start at delivery or at install?
At delivery. If you're not ready to install the new part for several weeks, don't order yet — you risk forfeiting the core deposit.

What if I want to return the new part AND get my core deposit back?
Two separate processes. The return of the new part follows our Return Policy (15% restocking fee, customer pays shipping). The core deposit refund follows this Core Exchange Program (also customer pays shipping, no fee). Email [email protected] and we'll walk you through both.

Questions?

Email [email protected] with your order number and we'll respond within one business day with your RGA, return address, and any guidance you need to ship the core back.