Category Archives: Junk Car Parts

The Most Valuable Junk Car Parts and Where to Sell Them

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Just because you have a totaled car doesn’t mean that everything inside it is broken. The great thing about car parts is that they can be repurposed and reused in other vehicles; that is, if they are still in good condition and/or refurbishable. If you have a junk car that you are thinking about selling, you would be wise to learn which automotive parts are the most valuable so that you can gauge what your offer might look like.

Continue reading to learn which car parts have the most value as a scrap yard, and where you can sell them for cash on the spot.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Valuable Car Parts in the Auto Salvage Industry

Keep in mind that the parts below are not listed in any particular order other than alphabetical. The actual worth of each type of car part depends on several economic and mechanical factors, the most impactful variables being whether or not they can be reused, and the current scrap metal prices on the market. See our blog, “What Does a Junk Car Appraiser Look For?” to learn some other factors that can influence your junk car offer.

Air Conditioning Systems

AC units are valuable car parts, especially if they still work well, and therefore, be reinstalled into another vehicle. AC systems for vehicles have compressors and condensers that contain good quality metal, making them profitable for scrappers.

Alternators and Starters

Alternators and starters are another highly-valuable and sought-after automotive part, buy both private consumers and scrap yards. Not only do they have steel casings, they also contain copper wiring, both of which can be recycled.

Batteries

Automotive batteries, as well as, batteries for any type of motorized vehicle (i.e. boats, tractors, etc.), are high in value at a junk yard. You might even be successful at refurnishing your used car battery using the old Epsom salt and distilled water method!

Catalytic Converters

Arguably one of the most valuable car parts is the catalytic converter. They are typically manufactured with an inner protective lining made from two high-priced metals: platinum and palladium. If the catalytic converter still works, it is worth even more.

Engines and Motors

Like catalytic converters, the other car part that tops the list as most valuable is the engine (or motor, depending on the type of vehicle). Engines, especially if refurbishable or still operable, are worth the most money in a junk car.

Radiators

Radiators contain a decent quantity of aluminum, which is a highly-useful and recyclable metal. For this reason, junk car buyers want vehicles that have them still intact. If you have a functioning car radiator, you can expect your junk car to be more valuable.

How to Sell a Junk Car in Indianapolis, Indiana

When you really just don’t know who to trust when it comes to selling a junk car in Indianapolis, Indiana, simply go with the best. Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to request a free, over-the-phone quote, or more information regarding the junk car selling process. Whether your vehicle runs or not, we are ready to make you an excellent offer and take it off your hands for free. We have an in-house tow truck that will come directly to your location to pick up your junk car.

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188

Types of Precious Metal That Might Be in Your Junk Car

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Do you have a junk car to sell? If so, you might be surprised to learn that it could contain certain metals that are higher in economic value. These are known as precious metals, and if your junk car has them, you can earn a better profit at a local scrap yard! Continue reading to learn which types of precious metals might be in a junk car, and what you can expect to earn for yours at a local cash for cars company.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

What is a Precious Metal?

A precious metal is any metallic chemical element that has a high economic value, specifically due to its rare occurrence in nature, useful properties, and aesthetic qualities. In some cases, precious metal is used as currency, or has been throughout history. These metals are highly corrosion-resistant, making them great elements for jewelry, currency, and investment. The rarer a metal, the more precious and valuable it will be on the market. Common examples of precious metals include gold, platinum, silver, rhodium, and palladium.

Copper

At times, copper can be considered a precious metal when considering its uses in jewelry and currency, however, it is highly common and attainable making it “not-so-precious” of a commodity. Although not worth much, copper is a fantastic metal to sell or recycle because it can be reused over and over again for our own benefit.  With the fluctuating economy in progress, valuable metals such as these retain their worth and are considered a valuable and lucrative investment.

Precious Metals in Cars

Cars, trucks, SUV’s, vans, motorcycles, scooters, and all other motorized equipment, contains one or more forms of precious metal. Virtually all motorized commodities contain copper. As for precious metals, it really depends on the vehicle’s age and condition. Modern cars are manufactured with several more computer systems than cars in the previous years, which are where the highest quantities of precious metal can be found. Computer systems like stereos, disc changers, CD players, media players, GPS systems, and backup cameras, all utilize a computer board, fitted with specialty metals like copper and gold-plated fingers.

Another auto part that contain precious metal is the catalytic converter. Catalytic converters are primarily manufactured with platinum, and high-valued precious metal. Platinum is very rare and valuable, and it currently has a great price point on the scrap metal market. And right now, its demand is sky-rocketing because it has so many advanced technological applications. Other small deposits of precious metals within catalytic converters are rhodium or palladium.

How to Get Top Dollar for Your Junk Car in Indianapolis

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell junk cars for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle and pay you cash. Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, today.

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188

What Can I Do to Increase the Value of My Junk Car?

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The question of increasing the monetary value of a junk car is sort of an enigma. After all, the reason why a junk car is a junk car is because it lacks conventional automotive value. However, there are some key points that might help you figure out how to make more money when selling a junk car.

Continue reading to learn what you can do to ensure your junk car renders the profit you deserve.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Repairing a Junk Car

The guaranteed option for increasing the value of a junk car is to repair it in as many places as possible, both cosmetically and mechanically. The increase in value will depend on how much work the vehicle needs, and how much you are willing to pay to have it repaired. The conundrum with this option is also the subject: value. You must ask yourself whether or not the money paid to repair the vehicle is worth the ultimate profit you obtain in the end. The only way this option works out well for the seller is if the junk car is repaired to the point of drivability, and can be granted a new car title that is not salvaged.

Dismantling a Junk Car

Another option to render a higher profit from a junk car is to dismantle it and sell off each part individually. This can increase the amount of money you make in total. The downfall to this option is that you will need to pay a mechanic, out of pocket, for the dismantling. Even if you are familiar with automotive mechanic work, it is important to have it done professional in order to guarantee product integrity and resale value. Furthermore, you must also put in the time and effort it takes to list your parts for sale and deal with all the incoming calls and customer inquiries.

Choose a Reputable Buyer for Your Junk Car

The best option for increasing the value of your junk car is to simply choose a junk car buyer that is well-established and does not use a middleman that will take more money out of your pocket. This option does not require you to lift a finger nor spend a dime; instead, it only requires you to do proper research and find a cash for cars company that will pay you a full and fair payout. There are hundreds of junk car buyers out there, so be sure you know which ones you can trust. Look for a company that has been in business for a long time and retains innovative technologies to assess the value of a junk car.

Who Pays the Most for Junk Cars in Indianapolis?

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car in Indianapolis, today! We accept all make and model vehicles, regardless of age or condition! There is never a middleman, which means you walk away with more cash in your pocket. Furthermore, we will dispose of your vehicle according to all Indiana EPA regulations. You can rest assured that your car will not have a negative impact on our environment. We also offer free towing haul away!

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188

How to Safely Get Rid of a Used Car Battery

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Changing and replacing a car battery is common knowledge for most car owners, however, knowing what to do with a used car battery is not. There are several constituents inside a car battery that allows it to cooperate and function within vehicles. These same components are mostly chemical-based, and can be tremendously hazardous in various aspects.

Continue reading to learn why safe battery disposal is so important to our health, safety, and surrounding environment, as well as, how to properly get rid of a used one when the time comes for you to do so.

Junk Car Buyers Indianapolis
Sell Us Your Junk Car Parts! 317-608-2188

Car Battery Anatomy

Car batteries contain several dangerous chemicals, materials, and heavy metals.  For instance, a standard 12 volt car battery contains elements such as lead, plastic, sulfuric acid, and more.  Diesel engine vehicles, like semi-trucks and tractors, may use a 24 volt system; requiring the use of two 12 volt batteries to operate. This means double the toxins, chemicals, and heavy metals. These 12 volt car batteries are made with lead plates and lead dioxide plates. These plates are submerged in an electrolyte solution made up of sulfuric acid and water. The chemical reaction of the two elements creates electrons that let them pass through conductors, running electricity to the vehicle’s engine and inner components.  

When a battery begins to lose its power, it is because the acid within the electrolyte solution has reacted with the plates, changing them from lead and lead dioxide, to lead sulfate. When a car battery is recharged, this same process is simply reversed. All these chemicals that make a vehicle’s battery function have proven useful in the automotive world, but they still need to be handled responsibility to protect ourselves and the environment from harm. One of the best ways to do this is by recycling used car batteries. It is the best and most responsible method to car battery disposal.

Car Battery Recycling

One unique aspect of automotive batteries is that they are almost completely recyclable. This means that nearly all of a battery’s components can be recycled and reused for new car batteries. For example, the lead is virtually 100% recyclable, and can be melted down, filtered, and refurbished in new car parts. The plastic components are also completely recyclable and can be reused in other products. Surprisingly, the sulfuric acid can even be reused. It can be counteracted and purified to be released as uncontaminated water, converted into sodium sulfate (for fertilizers, dyes, etc.), or reused in new car batteries.

To recycle a used car battery, simply take it to a local automotive salvage company near you.  Most auto salvage professionals will accept used batteries and other vehicle parts, regardless of age or condition.  This includes car batteries. Recycling an automotive battery is a great contribution to protecting our environment and preserving our natural resources. 

How to Sell Junk Cars and Automotive Parts

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your old car parts or junk car for cash on the spot! We will buy any junk cars and car parts in Central Indiana, regardless of age, make, model, or condition. For those who wish to sell a junk car, we offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, anytime!

Your Options as an Indianapolis Junk Car Owner

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There are several advantages of owning a junk car that many people have never considered.  To most, junk vehicles are garbage that no one wants to deal with or buy.  Instead, a junk car can actually be a great treasure! Continue reading to learn a few ideas, tips, and fun ways to put a junk car to good use once and for all!

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

One of the greatest opportunities for junk car owners is be able to discover different ways on how to discard or get rid of a junk car in their garage or driveway.  For example, there are various components in vehicles that can be recycled and reused in countless ways.  This option is the most recommended, however, there are many other fun ways to reuse a scrap vehicle.

Selling Junk Cars Parts

A person can sell a junk vehicle as a whole, or disassemble the parts and sell them piece by piece. Since there are so many salvageable parts on a scrap car, you can potentially make more money if you take apart the junk vehicle yourself and sell each individual component separately. But beware, this option requires a lot of effort, automotive and mechanical knowledge, and time. For the average car owner, the better and more convenient option is to sell a junk car whole.

Sell a Junk Car Whole

There are several options when it comes to selling a junk car as a whole. Depending on the status and conditional state of the vehicle, the cash value with always vary. The better condition the car is in, the more money it is worth.  Also, if a car still retains the valuable components, such as a catalytic converter and engine, then it is worth even more. The best place to start if you wish to sell a junk car for cash is an Indianapolis junk car buying company. Junk car buyers do just that; they buy junk vehicles and break them down into more valuable parts. Junk car buyers are a good options because they retain the appropriate equipment, machinery, and tools to quickly disassemble a car and recycle the metal that is inside. 

Why Choose a Junk Car Buyer

Junk car buyers will certainly give you a higher cash return for your junk vehicle than a regular person who’s found your ad in the paper. They know and understand the worth of certain metals with automobiles and retain the finances to purchase large inventories of scrap vehicles for recycling purposes. They also make the process easier for the client because they generally offer pickup and towing services for free. This way you do not even have to leave your house to sell a junk car.

Creative Uses for junk Cars

One great option is to simply keep your old car in case you need to replace a worn-out part in your current vehicle.  Using old car parts as spare or backup parts is a great way to save money and be resourceful at the same time!  Buying new car parts can be costly and time consuming.  Using a spare part saves cash so long as you can find a person to install it for a fair price. This is a great way to put your old car to use while saving money too. 

Another option for old junk vehicles is to use them for art or other fun commodities.  Many artistic people like to take regular items and turn them into fun and useful things.  For example, old car parts can be constructed to form beautiful modern and creative art, or even refurbished into household items like towel racks and mantles. 

Overall, junk cars have many uses and should never be shrugged off as a waste of space or trash.  Recycling, earning money, creative art, and more are just the beginning of what a junk car can do for you and others!  If you own a junk vehicle, consider some of these ideas and spread the word so everyone can make a little cash and contribute to the environment at the same time!

Call Our Trusted Indiana Junk Car Buyers!

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car in Indianapolis to our reputable and honest Cash for Cars Company you can trust. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle and pay you CASH ON THE SPOT! We accept all vehicles and motorized commodities, regardless of age or condition. Request a free estimate, today!

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188

Common Types of Metal in Junk Cars

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If you are wondering why you can get paid cash for a totaled or junked vehicle, it is because they contain metal that can be reprocessed and reused over and over again! Metal is 100% recyclable, so selling a junk car to a local scrapper is an excellent way to help the environment and put some cash in your wallet.

Continue reading to learn which areas of a vehicle contain desirable amounts of metal, as well as, how to get started selling a junk car in Indianapolis.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188
Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

⚙ Aluminum

Aluminum is found in various parts and components inside a vehicle. Common parts that contain aluminum include motors, doors, hoods, and rims.

⚙ Lead

Lead is abundant in a junk car. Parts inside the battery are often made of lead, as well as, the wheels. Car wheels are an excellent automotive component to scrap for cash because they are heavy.

⚙ Steel

Steel is the majority of metal found in a junk vehicle. Also known as shredded auto scrap, you can find it in the frame, chassis, engine, and virtually all other components inside a car.

⚙ Copper

Cars contain all sorts of electrical wires, and copper happens to be the best metal for heat and energy transfer. Many of a vehicle’s wires are made of copper, which can be repurposed.

⚙ Precious Metal

Inside a car you’ll find a catalytic converter, which is primarily comprised of two highly-valuable precious metals, platinum and palladium. Gold can also be found in computer circuit boards.

How Much a Junk Car is Worth

The total value you can expect to receive for selling a junk car will vary depending on several factors. Not only does the worth of a junk car depend on the attributes of the junk car itself, it also depends heavily on current stock exchange prices, market metal values, timing, and perhaps the most influential, industry demand. Read our blog, “How Much Can I Make From Selling a Junk Car” to understand how much you might get paid for your junk vehicle.

In order to feel confident that you are getting paid the right amount of cash for your junk car is to choose a reputable Indianapolis junk car buyer to do business with. Look for a professional business that has been serving the community for some time, and provides customer amenities like free quotes and haul away service. You also want to look for positive customer feedback and reviews.

Skip the Hassle and Go Directly to the Pros!

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! We will schedule a time to pick up your vehicle and pay you cash. Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, today.

GC’s Junk Cars
GC’s Junk Cars 317-608-2188

Do Junk Cars Contain Precious Metal?

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Precious metals are naturally occurring elements that form in the Earth’s crust and retain high economic value. So what does this mean? It means that these metals are worth a whole lot of money! In the junk car selling industry, many sellers wonder what makes their vehicle more or less valuable than another, and one answer to this questions may be precious metal content. Cars have various parts and constituents that are made from or contain precious metal. So if you have a junk car that you want to get rid of, you can get more money if it still retains these valuable elements.

Continue reading to learn which precious metals can be found in a car, and where.

Sell Us Your Junk Car Parts! 317-608-2188

Sell Us Your Junk Car Parts!
317-608-2188


Well known precious metals include gold, silver, platinum, tungsten, zirconium, palladium, rhodium, cerium, manganese, and nickel. And many of these same precious metals can be found in a vehicle. It all depends on where you look. There are two main areas of a vehicle that will likely contain precious metal: circuit boards and the catalytic converter.

Circuit Boards

If a car has an engine and an electrical system, it will surely have circuit boards. Modern circuit boards are designed with gold plated contact “fingers” at their edges where their connectors slide on. This gold is highly valuable to a junk car buyer. Onboard computer systems, such as powertrain control modules (PCM) and engine control units (ECU), contain circuit boards that control antilock brakes (ABS), fuel injection, ignition timing, emission controls, transmission shifting, turbocharger boost, and much more.

As of today, the current U.S. market value for GOLD is $1,201.49 per ounce.

Catalytic Converters

All vehicles (with the exception of propane-powered engines or electric cars) contain a catalytic converter, which also happens to be one of the most valuable automotive parts in a car. That is because catalytic converters are made of several precious metals. Platinum is the primary precious metal in catalytic converters, but they may also contain other alloys mentioned earlier, such as palladium, rhodium, cerium, and manganese.

As of today, the current U.S. market value for PLATINUM is $839.50 per ounce.
As of today, the current U.S. market value for PALLADIUM is $1,109 per ounce.
As of today, the current U.S. market value for RHODIUM is $2,500 per ounce.

(METAL PRICES SOURCE: www.infomine.com)

How to Sell Junk Cars and Automotive Parts

Cash for Junk Cars 317-608-2188

Cash for Junk Cars 317-608-2188

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your old car parts for cash on the spot! We will buy any junk cars and car parts in Central Indiana, regardless of age, make, model, or condition. For those who wish to sell a junk car, we offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, anytime!

Do I Need Car Radiator Repair?

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Your vehicle’s radiator is very important because it prevents the engine from overheating. Every time you drive your vehicle, your engine produces high levels of heat. Without a properly-functioning radiator, your vehicle’s heat levels cannot be managed, which can lead to serious safety issues and automotive damage.

Continue reading to learn more about car radiators, and the common signs that suggest it needs to be repaired.

Sell Your Old Car Parts 317-608-2188

Sell Your Old Car Parts in Indy
317-608-2188

How They Work

Radiators pump coolant through the inner components of your engine. The coolant absorbs the heat that the engine produces, and then travels back to the radiator where it is rapidly cooled. The entire cycle is continuous and constant while you drive. On a side note, coolant also doubles as anti-freeze, and prevents your engine from freezing up in cold temperatures.

Radiator Problems

Since radiators are the primary component of a vehicle’s cooling system, it is vital for them to remain in good condition. When a radiator begins to have issues, you will usually start to notice the signs. The most common signs include overheating engines, coolant leaks, low coolant levels, and sludge in the radiator. Below is a brief description of each sign and why they occur.

Overheating Engine – The most common sign that your radiator is in need of service or repair is an overheating engine. Sometimes, all you need is some more coolant to take care of an overheated engine. But when the overheating persists, it is a sign that your radiator needs attention.

Leaking Coolant – The next most common sign that a radiator needs repaired is seeing coolant on the ground beneath your vehicle. This is usually caused by a leak in your coolant tubes or a crack in the radiator shell, and it is a serious problem that requires immediate attention.

Low Coolant Levels – If you notice that you are refilling your car’s coolant too frequently, that means your vehicle is either using too much too quickly, or you have a coolant leak somewhere. Both are serious issues that require immediate automotive repair.

Sludge – You probably won’t discover sludge in your radiator on your own. It is more likely that your mechanic will come across it during a routine service appointment or while making unrelated repairs. Sludge in your radiator means there is an excessive amount of contaminants in your coolant. The contaminants will give coolant, normally brightly-colored, to a rusty or oily color. It is commonly caused by a defective transmission cooler inside the radiator. Not all vehicles have this.

Need to Replace Your Radiator?

We Will Pay You Cash for Your Old One!

GC's Junk Cars of Indianapolis 317-608-2188

GC’s Junk Cars of Indianapolis 317-608-2188

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your junk car parts for cash in Indianapolis, Indiana. We will buy any junk cars and car parts in Central Indiana, regardless of age, make, model, or condition. For those who wish to sell a junk car, we offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! Request a free estimate, anytime!

Can Magnesium Be Recycled?

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Sell Your Old Car Parts 317-608-2188

Sell Your Old Car Parts
317-608-2188

Magnesium, like most other metals, comes with a long list of interesting and informative facts. For instance, magnesium is the 8th most abundant element in the earth’s crust. Furthermore, this shiny gray-silver metal is the 9th most abundant element in the entire universe! There is a lot that can amaze you about this interesting element, including the endless benefits and applications it offers our society. And because magnesium is so beneficial to our world, it is vital that we conserve it as much as possible. The most effective, current magnesium conservation initiative is recycling. Not only is it possible to recycle magnesium, it is a critical step toward preserving our planet’s natural resources.

Magnesium-Based Alloys

It is not common for standard consumers to have pure magnesium. Instead, magnesium-based alloys and materials are most common. The two primary categories are casting alloys and wrought alloys. Casting alloys are mostly manufactured by die casting, permanent mold casting, and sand casting; while wrought alloys are usually combined with manganese, aluminum, zinc, or zirconium, depending on the application. The process of manufacturing both categories of magnesium alloys produces scrap magnesium, which can be recycled and reused all over again. Recycling scrap magnesium materials only uses 5% of the total energy expended to mine new magnesium. This is what makes it so critical to our environment.

What You Can Recycle

There are so many commodities that are manufactured with magnesium because of it is light weight, low density, heat resistance, and corrosion resistance qualities. Casting alloys are commonly used in the manufacturing of aircraft components, automotive parts, and power tools. Wrought alloys are often used to manufacture similar commodities, as well as, items like aircraft fuselages, helicopter gears, computer cases, bicycle frames, baseball catchers’ masks, and more.

Recyclable Magnesium Scrap:

▻ Magnesium Scrap Metal
▻ Magnesium Alloy By-Product
▻ Iron Magnesium Scrap Metal
▻ Spent Magnesium Oxide (MgO)
▻ Surplus Magnesium Oxide (MgO)
▻ Magnesium Garbage
▻ Magnesium Turnings
▻ Magnesium Engraver Plates
▻ Automotive Parts
▻ Motor Bikes
▻ Bicycles
▻ Cameras
▻ Phones
▻ Electronics
▻ Horseshoes
▻ Snowshoes
▻ And Much More!

How to Sell Your Old Car Parts

GC's Junk Cars 317-608-2188

GC’s Junk Cars of Indianapolis 317-608-2188

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your old car parts for cash on the spot! We will buy any junk cars and car parts in Central Indiana, regardless of age, make, model, or condition. For those who wish to sell a junk car, we offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, anytime!