Are you wondering, “Where are the best Places That Buy Car Parts Near Me?” Whether you’re dismantling a junk car or simply have spare auto parts taking up space, understanding where to sell them can put cash back in your pocket. Selling used car parts is a smart move for the environmentally conscious and those looking to make some extra money from unused vehicle components.
This guide will explore the most valuable car parts you can sell and direct you to the best places that buy car parts near me, ensuring you get the best possible return.
Top Auto Parts to Sell for the Best Cash
A typical car contains thousands of parts, but not all are equally valuable when it comes to selling. Knowing which components are in demand can significantly increase your earnings. Here are some of the most sought-after auto parts that places that buy car parts are often looking for:
- Engine: Engines are highly valuable. Repairable engines are attractive to rebuilders who refurbish and resell them. Even non-repairable engines have value for their aluminum and other recyclable metals.
- Transmission System: Similar to engines, transmissions can be sold for repair and resale if they are in working or repairable condition. Scrap metal value remains for damaged units due to their aluminum content.
- Catalytic Converter: These are prime targets for theft due to the precious metals they contain, like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Scrap yards are your best bet for selling catalytic converters.
- Battery: Car batteries, while not extremely high-value individually, are readily recyclable. Selling your old battery to a recycler is an easy way to make a little cash and be environmentally responsible.
- Air Conditioning System Components: Parts from the AC system, such as the compressor and condenser, can be valuable. While removal might require a mechanic, the scrap metal value adds up.
- Radiator: Radiators, largely made of aluminum, are valuable whether functioning or damaged. Working radiators can be resold, while scrap yards will buy them for their metal content.
- GPS System: Built-in GPS navigation systems can fetch a good price at scrap yards or to individuals looking to upgrade older vehicles.
- Stereo System: Even old or non-working car stereos have scrap value. Working, higher-end systems can be sold to individuals or used car parts retailers.
- Infotainment System: Modern infotainment systems are valuable. Working units can be sold to car accessory stores or online marketplaces. Damaged components still have value for their materials.
- Motor Oil & Oil Filters (Used): Recycling centers often accept used motor oil and filters. While the payout isn’t large, it’s an environmentally sound practice.
- Windshield: Used auto glass, particularly windshields in good condition, is a needed spare part and can be sold to auto recyclers.
- Car Seats: Car seats in good, usable condition are desirable, especially to junkyards or individuals replacing worn or damaged seats.
- Wheels & Tires: Good condition wheels and tires have multiple avenues for sale. Sets in excellent condition can be sold privately. Tires can be sold separately from rims. Even worn tires and wheels have recycling value.
A worn down, teal-colored car sits on a car tow, ready to be taken to places that buy car parts.
- Fenders: Used fenders in good condition are always in demand as replacement parts, making them good for resale.
- Doors: Car doors are highly valuable spare parts due to frequent damage and the demand for replacements after accidents.
- Bumpers: Bumpers are consistently in high demand because they are often damaged in minor collisions. Good condition bumpers can bring in a significant return.
- Tailgates: Like bumpers and doors, tailgates are valuable replacement parts, especially for trucks and SUVs.
- Windshield Wiper Arms: Often overlooked, windshield wiper arms can still be sold for scrap metal, and depending on the car model, can be worth more than you might expect.
- Lights (Headlights, Taillights): Car lights are prone to damage in accidents and are always needed as replacements. While individually they may not be worth much, they contribute to the total value.
Scrap or Part Out? Finding the Right Places That Buy Car Parts Near Me
Deciding whether to scrap your entire junk car or part it out depends on your time, tools, and automotive knowledge. Parting out a car can yield more money if you sell valuable components individually. However, it requires effort to disassemble the vehicle and find places that buy car parts near me for each specific item.
If you prefer a quicker, less labor-intensive approach, selling your junk car whole to a junkyard or auto recycler is a viable option. These places that buy car parts and whole vehicles will often handle the removal and offer cash for the vehicle as is.
Locating Places That Buy Car Parts Near You
To find places that buy car parts near me, consider these options:
- Junkyards and Auto Recyclers: These are the most common places that buy car parts. Search online for “junkyards near me” or “auto recyclers near me.” Call them to inquire about the parts they buy and their pricing.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites and apps designed for selling used auto parts connect you with potential buyers nationwide. This option requires you to handle shipping.
- Local Mechanics and Repair Shops: Some local mechanics or repair shops may buy used parts, especially if they specialize in older vehicles or repairs.
- Scrap Metal Yards: For metal-based parts like engines, transmissions (damaged), radiators, and catalytic converters, scrap metal yards are ideal places that buy car parts for their material value.
When contacting places that buy car parts, be prepared to describe the parts you have, their condition, and your vehicle’s make and model. Getting quotes from multiple buyers will ensure you get the best price for your used car parts.
Selling your used car parts is a practical way to declutter, make money, and contribute to recycling efforts. By understanding the value of different parts and knowing where to look for places that buy car parts near me, you can maximize your return and make the most of your unwanted auto components.
