All cars reach road life’s end at one time or another. Either due to being in an accident, age, or repair costs mounting high, most automobile owners will wonder what they do with such a vehicle. The good news is that even a junk car still has value. Before you trade in your car to a junkyard or cash-for-cars company, it is a good idea to locate and salvage the most valuable parts on a car to sell. Knowing what to find, you get to earn more money from your car — and we at Boss Cash Cars can assist you on how to do that.
Why Identifying Parts of a Car Matters
Selling an old car can look like it’s all about the metal salvage value. But the fact is, a good number of the components within your car are worth a whole lot more than you can imagine. From the engine to the electronics, there are components in your car that are paid for by buyers, mechanics, and auto recyclers very good money for.
Spending a few minutes to find these valuable pieces before you sell can put more money in your check or give you negotiating power for a higher offer.
Most Valuable Car Parts to Sell
We’re going to divide some of the most valuable car parts that typically have the most value:
1. Engine and Transmission
The engine is the heart of any vehicle — and even in a crashed vehicle, it can be sold for a decent amount if it’s still operational or can be refurbished. Car enthusiasts, mechanics, and used parts dealers often look for used engines to repair or rebuild them.
Likewise, the transmission system is one of the most valuable parts on a vehicle to sell. Automatic transmissions, in particular, are always sought after due to their complexity and hefty price when purchased new.
Tip: If your car engine or transmission is in good condition or can be rebuilt, make sure to have it professionally evaluated before scrapping the whole vehicle.
2. Catalytic Converter
Your catalytic converter is small, but it contains valuable metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Because of this, it is among the most valuable items on a junk vehicle and thus one of the most desirable to thieves.
Catalytic converters that are used are well-compensated by automobile recyclers due to the metals they can recover and sell. Your converter, although old or clogged, retains scrap value.
3. Car Battery (Hybrid/Electric Specifically)
Standard car batteries are not very valuable individually, but if you have a hybrid or electric vehicle, the battery can be worth hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Specialized wreckers will pay for hybrid batteries to repair or reuse. Don’t skip this section if you have a hybrid or electric clunker.
4. Air Conditioning System
Your A/C compressor, condenser, and evaporator units are highly sought after by mechanics and repair shops for vehicles. These units, when operational, can be easily sold to those who need cheap replacements.
Tip: If your car’s air conditioning system is still operational, disassemble it piece by piece before selling your used car.
5. GPS and Electronic Systems
New vehicles are packed with electronics — from GPS navigation systems to stereos, infotainment displays, sensors, and backup cameras. These are resalable or can be utilized as spares for other vehicles.
The best things on a vehicle to sell are not always mechanical; occasionally it’s the tech aspect that takes you by surprise with its worth.
6. Rims and Tires
If your car tires still have adequate tread life or the alloy wheels are in decent condition, you can make some extra cash selling them separately. Wheels especially hold their value since they can be reconditioned or recycled on another car.
Bonus: Spare tires and after-market wheels do too.
7. Radiator and Cooling System Parts
The radiator, water pump, and other cooling system parts are essential components of a car engine run. As long as they are not cracked or badly rusted, these parts are in high demand at salvage lots and repair garages.
8. Airbags
If your used junk car was not in an accident that deployed the airbags, the airbags can be resold for application on other vehicles. Mechanics and rebuilders typically seek undamaged airbags since buying them new is expensive.
9. Seats and Interior
Leather seats, car mats, steering wheels, dashboards, and consoles are items that auto upholsterers or car enthusiasts typically search for replacing worn-out interiors of old vehicles.
10. Doors, Fenders, and Mirrors
A portion of the body such as doors, fenders, and side mirrors can still be salvaged and sold if they’re not severely dented or rusted. This is especially true for rare or antiquated car models.
How to Identify and Remove Valuable Parts
Having an idea of what to look for, here are some pointers on how to identify a car’s parts and remove them safely:
- Do Your Research: Research the year, make, and model of your car to find out what parts are sought after.
- Use Basic Tools: Jacks, screwdrivers, and wrenches can be utilized to get most valuable parts out without needing special equipment.
- Take Safety Precautions: Disconnect the battery and be careful when working with fuel lines, cooling systems, and electrical systems.
- Label Parts Clearly: If you are selling a few parts, label them so that the process of selling will be easier.
Sell Your Junk Car for Top Dollar at Boss Cash Cars
If you don’t want to take it apart yourself, don’t worry — Boss Cash Cars will do it for you. Our experienced staff evaluates your car and offers you a good price for the most valuable components on a vehicle to sell. If it’s an old sedan, SUV, or pickup, we buy junk cars in any shape.
We offer free towing, simple paperwork, and top-dollar payment for junk cars in the area.
Final Thoughts
A junk car may no longer be running, but its components can still be worth money. From engines to electronics, learning how to identify the most worthwhile components on a car to sell can put more money in your pocket before goodbye is said to your old car.
When you’re ready to part ways with your vehicle, contact Boss Cash Cars — your trusted partner in getting the most value from your junk car.
Call us today or get a free online quote!
