Finding yourself with a vehicle you’re looking to part ways with? Whether your car has been in an accident making repairs uneconomical, or it’s simply reached the end of its mechanical life, selling off its components can be a surprisingly lucrative option. Instead of just thinking about selling your entire junk car, consider the value locked within its individual parts.
Top Auto Parts to Sell for Cash
A typical car contains thousands of individual components, many of which hold significant resale or scrap value. Knowing which parts are most sought after can significantly increase your return. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most valuable auto parts you can sell:
A worn down, teal-colored car sits on a car tow.
Engine
The engine is often the most valuable single component in a vehicle. A functioning or repairable engine can be sold to rebuilders or individuals needing a replacement, commanding a good price. Even a non-functional engine has value as scrap aluminum. The demand for both used and scrap engine components makes it a prime candidate when looking to sell car parts.
Transmission System
Similar to engines, transmissions can be sold whole if they are in working order or repairable. Repair shops and individuals often seek used transmissions to save on costs. If the transmission is beyond repair, the aluminum and other metals within still hold scrap value.
Catalytic Converter
Catalytic converters are highly valuable due to the precious metals they contain, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals are essential for reducing harmful emissions, and their high market value makes catalytic converters a frequent target for theft. Selling your catalytic converter to a scrap yard can bring in a substantial return.
Battery
While not as valuable as some other parts, car batteries are readily recyclable and hold scrap value. Selling your old car battery is an environmentally responsible choice and can provide a small but worthwhile financial return. Plus, recycling ensures that hazardous materials are properly handled.
Air Conditioning System
Components of the air conditioning system, such as the compressor and condenser, can be valuable. While removal may require a mechanic, these parts have both resale and scrap value, particularly the aluminum components. With air conditioning being a standard feature, there’s consistent demand for these parts.
Radiator
Radiators, like engines and air conditioning components, contain significant amounts of aluminum. A working radiator can be resold for a good price, while even a damaged radiator retains value as scrap metal. The consistent need for radiator replacements due to wear and tear or accidents keeps demand steady.
GPS System
Built-in GPS navigation systems, especially in older vehicles being upgraded, can be sold. While standalone GPS units have become less common due to smartphones, integrated car systems still hold value, particularly in older models where they might be an upgrade for some buyers.
Stereo System
Even if your car’s stereo system isn’t top-of-the-line, components like the head unit, speakers, and amplifiers can be sold. Working systems can be sold to individuals looking to upgrade their car audio, while even non-working units may have scrap value in their components.
Infotainment System
Modern infotainment systems are complex and valuable. Working systems can be sold to car accessory stores, pawnshops, or online marketplaces. Even if parts of the system are faulty, valuable components within can be scrapped, reflecting the advanced electronics and materials used in these systems.
Motor Oil & Oil Filters
Recycling used motor oil and oil filters is environmentally responsible and, in some cases, can provide a small financial incentive. Authorized recycling centers can process and reuse these materials, reducing waste and conserving resources.
Windshield
Automobile glass, especially windshields, is a frequently needed replacement part. A windshield in good condition is a valuable component to sell, as damage from road debris is common. The size and specific type of windshield can influence its resale value.
Car Seats
Car seats in good condition can be surprisingly valuable, especially if they are from popular models or are in a desirable color and material. Junkyards and used parts retailers often seek out good quality car seats for resale.
Wheels & Tires
Wheels and tires offer multiple avenues for selling. A set in good condition can be sold privately. Tires can be sold separately from rims. Even worn tires and damaged wheels have scrap value through recycling, ensuring that materials are recovered and reused.
Fenders
Fenders are often damaged in minor collisions, making used fenders in good condition a consistently sought-after replacement part. Their relatively simple removal and consistent demand make them a good part to sell.
Doors
Car doors are valuable spare parts due to the frequency of side-impact collisions. Doors in good condition, complete with windows and internal mechanisms, are highly desirable and can command a good price in the used parts market.
Bumpers
Bumpers are designed to absorb impact in collisions, meaning they are frequently damaged and replaced. Bumpers in good condition, especially those from popular models, are in high demand and can be sold for a significant amount, particularly if they include sensors or other features.
Tailgates
Similar to doors and bumpers, tailgates are prone to damage and are valuable replacement parts, especially for trucks and SUVs. A tailgate in good condition can be a valuable component to sell.
Windshield Wiper Arms
Often overlooked, windshield wiper arms can have scrap value, and certain models can even be resold. Depending on the vehicle model, some wiper arms, particularly those with integrated features, can be worth selling.
Lights
Headlights, taillights, and other vehicle lights are easily damaged in accidents. While individual lights might not bring in a huge amount, they are consistently in demand as replacement parts, and selling them contributes to recycling and reuse.
Scrapping vs. Selling Individual Parts
Deciding whether to scrap your entire car or dismantle it and sell individual parts depends on your resources and time. Scrapping the whole vehicle is quicker and requires less effort. However, selling individual parts maximizes your return, as you capitalize on the value of each component separately.
Disassembling a car for parts requires tools, time, and some mechanical skill. If you’re comfortable with DIY auto work, selling parts can be significantly more profitable. If not, selling your junk car whole is still a viable and easy option to get cash for your old vehicle.
Easy Junk Car Removal in the Chicago Area
For those in the Chicago area looking to get rid of a junk car without the hassle of dismantling it, New Cats Auto Parts offers a convenient solution. We provide FREE same-day junk car removal and pay you cash on the spot.
Since 1958, New Cats Auto Parts has been a trusted provider of used auto parts in Chicago and surrounding areas. We make it easy to turn your unwanted vehicle into cash.
Contact us today to discover how New Cats Auto Parts can assist you!
