People may not realize it, but even a scrap or non-functioning car can be valuable to the right buyer. For example, if you have a classic car, like a ’57 Ford Fairlane, or a one-of-a-kind collector’s model, like a ’31 Ford Model-A, you’re bound to find a collector that will pay top dollar for everything from the canopy to the gas tank lid. Even those of us with everyday cars like Toyota Corollas or Hyundai Elantras can make a good amount of money selling our used or non-functioning cars to scrapyards like Kenny U-Pull. Many car parts can be recycled for resale and are well-sought after by scrapyards, ensuring you, the seller, a hefty profit!

Popular Car Parts for Recycling

Regardless of make and model, if the following parts are in good condition, it will factor into how much money you’ll fetch for your old scrap car:

Batteries

Car batteries are full of toxic materials (like sulphuric acid) and are high on the car parts recycling list, if only to make sure such harmful chemicals are disposed of safely.  Additionally, plastic, lead, and acid from used car batteries can be broken down and repurposed into lead framing, plastic cases, diluted into household cleaners, and of course, remade into new car batteries. 

Tires

Buying new tires can be an expensive affair, so having the option of buying slightly used at 40-60% off the retail price is an attractive option to many consumers. Scrapyards like Kenny U-Pull often have extensive tire sections. Not only does this help consumers save a few dollars, but it also spares the environment of the detrimental effects involved in disposing of used tires. Of course, anything not sold can be broken down and recycled into things like asphalt for highways.  

Oils, Fluids, and Accompanying Parts

A car is a storehouse of fluids necessary for its proper functioning but dangerous for humans and the environment if not disposed of properly. Motor oils, brake fluid, gasoline, and washer fluid are all such substances but they can be recycled, stored, repurposed, and resold if removed safely and according to government regulations. 

Car parts recycling doesn’t end there, as even components that come into contact with these fluids need to be disposed of safely. Since oil filters, engines, and transmissions accumulate debris from oils, they need to be discarded at special centers, which scrapyards like Kenny U-Pull do routinely. 

The Raw Materials: Metal and Glass

The metals used in car chassis and parts are expensive to mine and require copious amounts of energy and resources to refine and produce. Recycling the steel and aluminum from the chassis, copper and magnesium from the wiring, and palladium and platinum from the catalytic converter of a used car is much easier than starting the process from scratch. Additionally, not only can this type of car parts recycling lead to the creation of new cars, but can also be used to make everything from kitchen appliances to playground rides.

Additionally, the tempered glass from car windshields can be similarly recycled to form new windshields or to supply the glass for ovens, household windows, or even bowls and decorative vases. 

To find out more about what car parts can be recycled or to sell your car, contact your local Kenny U-Pull today!