When a vehicle reaches the end of its roadworthy life, most owners think their only option is to take it straight to the junkyard. However, the old unwanted vehicle may still have some hidden value to those interested in purchasing it. There are many parts on a used car that may be reused, resold or refurbished. So, you can actually get cash for unwanted cars rather than scrapping. Knowing which parts have resale value will assist you in determining whether to resell parts individually or choose a company that pays cash for junk cars while adequately disposing of any salvageable parts.
Looking for a company to remove your old car? It’s critical to understand what items are worth saving.
Why Reselling Used Car Parts Makes Sense
As new parts for cars continue to rise in price, the demand for used car parts has also increased significantly. Automotive mechanics and rebuilders are always looking for quality used parts that can still provide a considerable level of performance when compared with new parts, at a fraction of what a new part would cost.
When you choose to sell your old vehicle’s parts instead of scrapping them, you are able to:
- Maximise your old vehicle’s resale value
- Decrease the amount of waste generated in the automotive industry
- Earn more cash than standard cash for old cars offers
- Participate in the recycling and reuse of automotive components
Let’s have a look at which parts are commonly resold by the automotive community.
1. Engine and Its Parts/Components
High-quality engines (or particular parts/components thereof) maintain their inherent value even after the vehicle has become inoperable. Examples of engine parts that can be reused or refurbished for further resale include:
- Cylinder Heads
- Alternators
- Starters
- Fuel Injectors
- Turbochargers
Engines that have moderate mileage on them, such as from well-known name-brand vehicles, have higher value in the resale automotive marketplace. Many companies that offer used car removal services evaluate the condition of an engine and its parts during valuation.
2. Catalytic Converter
One of the most sought-after components for older vehicles is the catalytic converter. These converters contain a number of precious metals: platinum, palladium and rhodium.
Even when the catalytic converter is damaged or not working properly, it can still be sold to a recycler as scrap metal. Professional car buyers such as Perth Scrap Car Removals will account its value when offering cash for a used car.
3. Transmission and Gearbox
New transmissions can be very expensive for both manual and automatic vehicles. So, there is a high demand for used gearboxes. If the gearbox is still functioning, it can often be sold to a workshop or parts dealer for reuse. Automatic gearboxes from reputable companies will usually sell for a good price as long as they have been removed and professionally tested.
4. Tyres, Wheels and Rims
Newly purchased alloy wheels, steel rims and lightly used tyres can easily be resold separately. Branded alloy wheels and custom rims are in high demand in resale markets. Tyres that have sufficient legal tread depth remain safe for reuse. Therefore, it represents a very significant value-add opportunity before opting for cash for old cars.
5. Electronics and Interior Components
Today’s modern cars have many valuable interior parts and electronics, like:
- GPS Systems
- Infotainment Systems
- Power Window Motors
- Instrument Clusters
- Air Conditioning Compressors.
Items such as dashboards, seats, door panels, and other interior parts also have substantial resale values, especially for popular automotive models or fleet vehicles.
6. Car Battery
Car Batteries that still have life in them can either be resold or refurbished. In case of a dead battery, there’s still some recycling value due to the lead content. Even if the individual resale of batteries is minor, the valuation of battery recycling will be part of the overall payout calculation during used car removal.
7. Cooling System Parts and Radiators
Cooling fans, radiators and condensers, all of these cooling system components are relatively easy to remove, damage-free, leak-proof and functional to most people. So, they are also very good items for resale.
8. Radiator and Cooling System Parts
Radiators, cooling fans, and condensers are commonly replaced parts. So, these are often resold if they’re leak-free and functional. These parts are relatively easy to remove and transport, making them attractive for resale.
When Reselling Isn’t Practical
Although selling the components individually gives more profit, it isn’t necessarily the most efficient method. It takes time and effort to dismantle and store the items, find buyers and check every part’s compatibility. That’s where you need a professional service.
Perth Scrap Car Removal provides you with this service and many others like them. They help you determine whether your car’s parts are suitable for reuse or recycling while still giving you a fair cash payment for your unused vehicle. In this way, you’re able to make an informed decision about the best option for your vehicle based on the convenience, value, and environmental impact.
Final Thoughts
It’s not necessary to move your older vehicles to the scrapyard. Many components of a vehicle, including its engine and transmission, catalytic converter, tires, electronics, and body panels, have a potential resale value which may be higher than you realise. Although it may take time and require some knowledge to sell the components separately, you can get a significant value.
If you prefer an easier option, however, there are companies that offer to pay cash for your old car. They even recycle salvageable parts responsibly. has salvageable parts, and they will recycle them in an environmentally friendly manner. So, before