A opportunity exists for sellers to position themselves as providers of hard-to-find components

eBay Australia, alongside Auto PARTnered Solutions (APS), recently announced new findings revealing a significant market opportunity for the automotive industry.
YouGov has also conducted a consumer research study to support these findings and uncovered that eight in ten (82 percent) surveyed Australian drivers are open to purchasing recycled auto parts, demonstrating the demand for recycled supply in the auto market^.
A further 64 percent of surveyed drivers cited cost savings as the key draw card to purchasing Recycled Original Equipment (ROE), with an estimated average savings of $2,144 per drive over five years by choosing ROE^.
In fact, the analysis by APS suggests drivers of vehicles seven to 13 years old could potentially save up to 85 percent by opting for recycled auto parts over new dealer equivalents#.
With approximately 850,000 vehicles reaching the end of their life in Australia each year, the country generates around 1.36 million tonnes of automotive waste annually*.
Recycled auto parts can offer an affordable, practical alternative, helping reduce pressure on landfills.
Further, eBay Australia says improving consumer access to ROE can help address a significant waste stream and drive greater opportunities for the industry.
Nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of surveyed Aussie drivers agreed that choosing recycled auto parts has a significant positive impact on the environment, a reflection of the growing focus on making conscious purchasing decisions that can help reduce environmental impact and deliver practical benefits for drivers^.
The YouGov research also showed that half (49 percent) of surveyed Aussie drivers have experienced a situation where they needed to find a specific vehicle part but found it was no longer manufactured or was hard to source through traditional retailers^.
eBay Australia says this shortage is driving a strong demand for recycled parts and accessible marketplace sellers and presents a growing opportunity for sellers to position themselves as providers of hard-to-find components, expanding their market reach beyond just cost-conscious consumers.

What’s more, when presented with two images of an auto part, one new and one recycled, 62 percent of surveyed Aussies reportedly could not correctly identify which of the two parts was the new part, showing that the cosmetic difference between them is often indistinguishable^.
The research further indicated that purchase confidence was boosted by guaranteed fitment (50 percent), clear warranty information (50 percent) and easy or free returns (49 percent) ^.
These factors not only reassure buyers about quality and reliability but also save them time and hassle in the purchasing process.
When combined with the cost savings and environmental benefits of choosing recycled auto parts, they create a compelling proposition — helping Australians save money, time and reduce their environmental impact while keeping their vehicles on the road for longer.
“From the report findings, we can see the potential opportunity that recycled auto parts sellers have right now on eBay, with 82 percent of surveyed Australian drivers open to purchasing recycled auto parts, signalling strong and widespread demand^, which is especially strong for hard-to-find components, especially for older vehicles,” eBay Australia Category Manager for Car Parts and Accessories, Gautam Taluja, said.
“There’s also a chance for the industry to address the approximate 1.36 million tonnes of automotive waste each year, meeting both cost-conscious and eco-conscious consumer needs. By combining affordability, quality, and circularity, sellers can tap into a market that’s ready to grow.
“As a marketplace, eBay has long supported and strived to help shape the circular economy, with this report acting as a key stepping stone in furthering our efforts in this space, with the intention of continuing to drive initiatives that support both people and the planet.”
Gautam explains that eBay Australia stands ready to assist automotive businesses to take advantage of the opportunities currently presented by the market.
“eBay Australia offers automotive businesses a ready-made way to tap into growing demand for recycled and hard-to-find parts,” Gautam said.
“With access to millions of buyers across Australia and globally, including those actively searching for specific automotive components, sellers can reach a large and engaged audience.
“Through eBay Guaranteed Fit, buyers can shop with confidence knowing the parts they purchase will fit their vehicle, supported by clear warranty information, easy or free returns, and eBay’s Money Back Guarantee.
“Further, our tools make it easy to list inventory, target the right customers, and manage sales efficiently.
“As a long-time supporter of the circular economy, eBay helps sellers grow their business while helping reduce environmental impact – creating opportunities to build loyalty and a trusted reputation for quality recycled auto parts.”

Auto PARTnered Solutions (APS) Managing Director, Chirs Daglis, said that as an industry, the aftermarket has a unique opportunity to deliver substantial value to consumers while simultaneously addressing major environmental challenges.
“This report validates that recycled auto parts offer a compelling proposition,” Chris said.
“Together with eBay, APS is dedicated to fostering the infrastructure and confidence needed for the motor industry to fully integrate and future-proof its operations in an increasingly resource-conscious and cost-driven market.
“We’re at the start of this journey and will continue improving data quality and transparency to strengthen our climate contribution.”
This research, commissioned by eBay Australia and conducted online by YouGov between August 1 and 6, 2025, provides a comprehensive market analysis of the Australian automotive aftermarket.
Based on a nationally representative sample of 1,013 Australian vehicle owners, the findings explore consumer attitudes and behaviours towards recycled auto parts, highlighting their potential as an under-utilised lever for economic benefit and environmental impact within the circular economy automotive sector.
The methodology adhered to ISO 20252:2019 standards, with data weighted to reflect ABS population estimates.
The purpose of this research is an early step in measuring just how much of a difference these parts can make for Australian drivers.
eBay Inc. (Nasdaq: EBAY) is a global commerce leader that connects people and builds communities to create economic opportunity for all.
Its technology empowers millions of buyers and sellers in more than 190 markets around the world, providing everyone the opportunity to grow and thrive.
Founded in 1995 in San Jose, California, eBay is one of the world’s largest and most vibrant marketplaces for discovering great value and unique selection.
In 2024, eBay enabled $75 billion of gross merchandise volume.

For more information about the company and its global portfolio of online brands, visit www.ebay.com.au