Do you have an old car sitting in your driveway or garage, slowly deteriorating and taking up valuable space? Instead of letting it become an eyesore, consider turning it into cash. Selling individual car parts can be a surprisingly lucrative option, often yielding more than selling the entire vehicle as scrap. If you’re looking to Sell Car Parts For Cash, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the most valuable components you can remove and sell to maximize your return.
A worn down, teal-colored car sits on a car tow, illustrating the condition of vehicles often parted out for cash.
Top Auto Parts to Remove and Sell for Cash
Before you send your entire junk car to the scrapyard, consider dismantling it for parts. Many components retain significant value and are in high demand in the used auto parts market. Here are some of the most profitable car parts you can sell for cash:
Engine: The Heart of Your Car’s Value
The engine is arguably the most valuable part of your car. A functioning or repairable engine can be sold to engine rebuilders or individuals needing a replacement, fetching a considerable sum. Even a completely unusable engine has value for its aluminum content, which is highly recyclable and sought after by scrap metal dealers. When selling an engine, be sure to accurately describe its condition – whether it’s running, needs repair, or is for scrap only – to attract the right buyers and get the best price.
Transmission System: Valuable for Repair or Scrap
Similar to engines, transmissions hold significant value. A working transmission or one that can be economically repaired is valuable to repair shops or individuals looking to save money on a replacement. If the transmission is beyond repair, the aluminum casing and internal metal components still have scrap value. Like engines, detailing the transmission’s condition is key to a successful sale.
Catalytic Converter: High-Value Target for Scrap
Catalytic converters are among the most valuable and frequently stolen car parts due to the precious metals they contain: platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Scrap yards specialize in recovering these metals and will pay top dollar for catalytic converters. When selling a catalytic converter, be aware of local regulations regarding scrap metal sales and ensure you are selling to a reputable and licensed scrap yard.
Battery: Recycle for Cash and Environmental Responsibility
While a single car battery won’t make you rich, recycling it is a responsible and easy way to get a little cash. Auto parts stores and scrap yards often accept used car batteries for recycling, offering a small payment. Recycling batteries is also environmentally responsible, preventing harmful chemicals from leaking into the ground.
Air Conditioning System Components: Valuable Parts, Professional Removal Recommended
Components of your car’s air conditioning system, such as the compressor and condenser, contain valuable metals and refrigerants. While removing these parts yourself can be complex and requires specialized tools (and refrigerant recovery is regulated), a mechanic can safely remove these components for you. The scrapped parts can then be sold for cash.
Radiator: Aluminum Value in Working or Damaged Units
Radiators, primarily made of aluminum, are valuable whether they are in working condition or damaged. A functioning radiator can be resold to individuals needing a replacement. Even a leaking or damaged radiator can be scrapped for its aluminum content. When selling, specify if the radiator is in working order or for scrap.
GPS and Infotainment Systems: Tech Components with Resale Value
Built-in GPS navigation systems and infotainment systems can fetch a good price on the used market. Working units can be sold to individuals upgrading older vehicles or replacing damaged systems. Pawnshops, car accessory stores, and online marketplaces are potential buyers. Even non-working units may contain valuable components that can be scrapped.
Stereo System: Cash for Functioning or Scrap Units
Similar to infotainment systems, car stereos, whether functioning or not, have resale or scrap value. Working stereos can be sold to individuals looking for affordable car audio upgrades. Non-working units can be scrapped for their metal and electronic components.
Motor Oil and Oil Filters: Recycle for Environmental Benefit
Used motor oil and oil filters, while not high-value items, can be recycled at authorized centers. Recycling these items is crucial for environmental protection, as it prevents oil contamination. While you may not get cash directly, some centers offer incentives or discounts for recycling.
Windshield and Car Glass: Demand for Replacement Glass
Automotive glass, especially windshields, is a frequently replaced part due to damage from road debris and accidents. A windshield in good condition can be sold to auto glass shops or individuals. Other car glass can also be recycled, although the value is typically lower than windshields.
Car Seats: Resale Potential for Good Condition Seating
Car seats in good, clean condition can be sold to junkyards or individuals looking for replacements, especially for older vehicles. Clean, undamaged seats are more desirable and will command a better price.
Wheels and Tires: Multiple Avenues for Selling
Wheels and tires offer several selling options. A set of tires and rims in good condition can be sold privately. If you want to keep your rims, tires can be sold separately, even if slightly worn. Even worn-out tires have scrap value for recycling. Steel and aluminum rims also have scrap metal value.
Fenders, Doors, Bumpers, and Tailgates: High-Demand Body Parts
Body panels like fenders, doors, bumpers, and tailgates are consistently in demand as replacement parts due to accidents and rust damage. These parts, especially in good condition and matching common car models, can be valuable. Bumpers and tailgates, in particular, can fetch a higher price due to frequent damage in collisions.
Windshield Wiper Arms and Lights: Often Overlooked, but Still Valuable
Even smaller parts like windshield wiper arms and lights (headlights, taillights) have value. Wiper arms, depending on the model, can be surprisingly valuable at scrap yards. Lights are frequently damaged in minor accidents and are always needed for replacements. While individually these parts may not be worth much, they add up when selling multiple components.
Scrap the Whole Car or Part It Out? Making the Right Choice
Deciding whether to scrap your entire junk car or part it out depends on your time, tools, and mechanical skills. Parting out a car requires time to dismantle components, list them for sale, and handle potential buyers. You’ll need tools to safely remove parts and space to work.
If you lack the time, tools, or inclination for DIY dismantling, junking the entire vehicle is a faster and easier option. While you’ll likely make less money than parting it out, it’s a convenient way to get rid of your junk car and still receive cash.
Sell Your Car Parts for Cash Easily in the Chicago Area
If you’re in the Chicago area and looking to sell car parts for cash or get rid of your junk car quickly and easily, New Cats Auto Parts is here to help. We offer FREE same-day junk car removal and pay you cash on the spot. You don’t need to get your hands dirty or spend time dismantling your vehicle. Since 1958, New Cats Auto Parts has been a trusted source for used auto parts in Chicago and surrounding areas.
Give us a call today to discover how New Cats Auto Parts can help you turn your unwanted car or car parts into cash!
