Scrap Value: How to Get the Most Money When Recycling Your Car
Thinking about dropping your old ride at a junkyard? You might be surprised how much cash you can pull from a car that’s no longer road‑worthy. The amount you get, called the scrap value, depends on a few simple things – weight, metal type, and how clean the car is when you bring it in.
What Makes Up Your Car's Scrap Value?
First off, weight matters. Most yards pay by the tonne, so a big SUV usually brings in more than a tiny hatchback. Next, the type of metal counts. Steel is standard, but aluminium and copper fetch higher rates because they’re in demand for new parts. If your vehicle has a nice aluminium engine block or copper wiring, make a note of it – it can add a few extra pounds.
Condition also plays a role. A car full of fluids, broken glass, or missing parts can cost the yard extra work, so they’ll offer less. Remove any personal items, drain the fuel, and take out the battery if you can. Even a quick wash can make the car look less like trash and more like a good haul.
Tips to Boost Your Scrap Payout
Start by checking local scrap yard rates online. Prices can vary a lot between regions, and some yards advertise a higher rate for certain metals. Call a few places, give them the make, model, and weight, and ask for a quote. If you have time, sell the tyres and catalytic converter separately – they’re worth a decent amount on their own.
Another easy win is to sell any reusable parts before you scrap the rest. A working headlight, sound system, or even a steering wheel can be sold on online marketplaces. The money you get from parts adds to the overall return and reduces the load you’re handing over to the yard.
Finally, be ready to negotiate. If you’ve done your homework and know the market rates, you can push for a better deal. Mention any high‑value metals or parts you’ve kept, and the yard might raise their offer to keep the whole job in one place.Scrap value may not seem glamorous, but it’s a solid way to turn a dead car into cash for a new project or a down payment on something else. Follow these steps, keep things tidy, and you’ll walk away with more money than you expected.
