How to Assess Your Junk Car’s Worth

Posted on December 30, 2019 by junkcars17

When it comes time to sell your junk car, the very first step is to determine its realistic value. In order to do so accurately, it requires a particular formula that includes gaining a basic understanding of how scrap metal is assigned value on the market, and what factors influence your particular vehicle’s overall worth. Continue below to cover all of these speeds and more.

Indianapolis Junk Car Buyers 317-608-2188

Junk Car Values

Junk cars are valuable because they contain metal, which is 100% recyclable, and can be melted down and repurposed infinitely. Not only does this help preserve our planet’s natural resources by reducing the need to mine for new ores, it decreases air pollution produced by metal refining factories, stimulates the economy, and much more. So although a junk car is deemed a total loss, it is still worth some cash, but the amount of cash depends on several factors.

Such factors include the current market price for the vehicle, the amount of depreciation in its used condition, the cost of repairs or replacements needed to get the vehicle back into a working condition, the make and model of the vehicle, the vehicle’s location, its present overall condition, the current market prices for scrap metal, and much more. This is why the value of one junk car is almost always different from another. However, the most important and influential factor is market value. Basically, when the price of metal is down, a junk car is worth less; and when the price of metal is up, a junk car is worth more.

How to Get a Fair Junk Car Assessment

The best way to learn how much your junk car is worth is to have it appraised, professionally. It requires certain equipment, resources, and industry knowledge to make a proper estimation. This includes metal identification technology, such as XRF analyzers, as well as, electronic scales, metal market adeptness, and much more. So who can you trust do have all of this and a commitment to customer service? The answer is in Central Indiana.

Just Call GC’s Junk Cars!

Here at GC’s Junk Cars, our Indianapolis junk car center retains advanced technologies and state-of-the-art analyzation equipment that allows us to read the type of metal in a vehicle, and the quantities present. We also look up the make and model vehicle to determine the specific percentage of metals and non-metals, then implement the proper mathematical calculations to remove the non-metal percentage from the final quote.

Contact us today 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!

Can the Wrong Fuel Damage a Car?

Posted on November 27, 2019 by junkcars17

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you put a different type of fuel into your vehicle than you normally do? Could you put diesel fuel in a Honda? Or unleaded fuel in a Lamborghini? There are certainly some good reasons why car manufacturers instruct a particular type of fuel for their vehicles; but how scientific are they? What if you accidentally use the wrong fuel nozzle at the gas pump? Will your car be damaged beyond repair? If so, how can you recover without insurance coverage? As a vehicle owner, these are all very pertinent questions that warrant answers.

Continue reading to learn what might happen if you put the wrong type of fuel in your car, and what to do if it ever happens by accident.

Here is the thing about using the wrong type of fuel in a car: it can either have severe effects, like major engine damage or corroded fuel lines, or it can have no real effect at all. It depends on the type of fuel used, and the make and model vehicle it was put into.

Putting Diesel in a Gasoline Engine

If you were to put diesel fuel into a gasoline engine, the effects would not be as devastating as the former scenario, however, it would still be a bad situation for both you and your car. Not only will it make the car smoke excessively, the car will not perform well. Furthermore, it may clog the fuel filter, lines, and injectors. If you were to continue giving a gasoline engine diesel, the engine would eventually stop working altogether. If this situation does occur, do not start your car. Instead, disconnect the battery and then have your vehicle towed to a mechanic.

Putting Gasoline in a Diesel Engine

If you put regular gasoline into a vehicle that runs on a diesel engine, you are in a bad position. First, do not start the car, otherwise, the damage will be catastrophic to the engine and fuel system. Second, to remedy the problem, you will have to have the entire fuel system cleaned. This includes everything from the tank and lines, to the injectors, filter, and more. In addition to automotive damage, gasoline and diesel fuel have different boiling points, so from a mechanical standpoint, using gasoline in a diesel engine would destroy the engine and related systems.

No Car Insurance?

In the case that you do not have automotive insurance, your position is worse since you might be left with a totaled car and no settlement check. If this happens, you still have some viable options for selling your car. The best option is to sell your totaled car to a local junk car buyer in Indianapolis. They will pay you cash on the spot for the market value of your car, so long as you can prove ownership of the vehicle.

Here’s How to Get Started!

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get paid cash for your totaled car in Indianapolis. Our Indiana junk car buyers 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. No title? No problem! Give us a call anyway! Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, today.

Your Options as an Indianapolis Junk Car Owner

Posted on November 15, 2019 by junkcars17

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

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!

Car Care Tips for Older Cars

Posted on October 29, 2019 by junkcars17

If you have an older model vehicle that still runs great, you are a good car owner! This also means that you are willing to do what it takes to extend the life of your vehicle even longer. In order to do this, you must understand that older cars and trucks require a more acute focus on factory scheduled maintenance; what you used to be able to put off for several months can no longer be ignored if you want to keep your car running for years to come.

Continue reading to learn some helpful tips for caring for older vehicles, as well as, the easiest way to get rid of an unwanted old car.

It is only natural for someone to want to extend the life of their car for as long as possible in order to make the most out of their investment. This societal objective, coupled with the innovative technologies and advancements made in the automotive manufacturing industry over the past few decades, makes it more and more common for people to have older vehicles. Cars are performing stronger and lasting longer than they ever have in the past, which is why so many people still drive older model vehicles.

What You Need to Do

To continue supporting dependable and safe performance in an older car, you must stay on top of all your automotive care requirements, namely, factory scheduled maintenance. Check with the owners’ manual for factory recommendations on when and what to service on your particular make and model vehicle. In addition to your owners’ manuals, below are the important tips you should follow.

☑ Fluid Inspections

Older cars need more attention, and one area they need more attention are the fluid levels. Every vehicle requires 7 essential fluids, including motor oil, transmission fluid, radiator fluid (coolant), battery fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. All of these fluids require more frequent inspection in order to ensure they are at the proper levels.

☑ Oil Changes

When it comes to fluid changes, motor oil is vital. Older cars have higher mileage, and higher mileage vehicles require oil changes more often than lower mileage vehicles. Whatever your owners’ manual recommends for oil changes, you will need to increase the amount. Instead, change the oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

☑ Spark Plug Replacement

Although it is not something you thing about, spark plugs are a vital component in an automotive engine, and sometimes, they need to be replaced as early as 30,000 miles. It is wise to have your spark plugs inspected by a licensed Indianapolis mechanic to ensure they are in good condition. Many older cars greatly benefit from having their spark plugs replaced.

☑ Time Belt Replacement

Just like spark plugs, timing belts do not last forever. After so many miles, they usually need to be replaced. It is a need that is often overlooked by old car owners. For vehicles with 100,000 miles or more, it is strongly recommended to have the timing chain inspected, and replaced if need be.

✨ Has your old car seen its last mile? Sell it to a local Indianapolis junk car buyer for an instant cash profit!

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell an old car in Indianapolis, today! We accept all make and model vehicles, regardless of age or condition! There is never a middle man, 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!

Which Documents Prove Ownership of a Vehicle?

Posted on September 24, 2019 by junkcars17

It is important to be able to prove that you own a vehicle, especially if you wish to sell it down the line. In fact, it is a state requirement. If you have a vehicle you are preparing to sell, whether operational or a junked, you will need to locate the proper documents that prove your ownership.

Continue reading to learn which documents are universally accepted as proof of ownership, and which documents might be applicable depending on the buyer.

Previously Owned Vehicles

For those who wish to sell a previously-owned vehicle to a private buyer, a certain type of document that proves ownership must be provided in order for the sale to be legal and valid. The document that applies here is a car title. A simple transfer of title is all that must take place when selling a vehicle to another person, legally. If you are selling your car, you would sign the title over to the buyer, who then becomes the new owner. After the new owner signs the title, they must visit their DMV to officially register the car.

Brand New Vehicles

If you are selling a vehicle that never had a previous owner before you, you might be able to use the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin, also known as a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin (MSO), to prove ownership of the vehicle when you do not have a car title. This document is given to new car buyers at the dealership. They are official documents that can be used at a DMV to prove ownership of a car.

Additional Documents That Might Be Accepted

Depending on various factors, such as state laws and insurance regulations, there might be additional documents that can be used to prove ownership of a motorized vehicle. These may or may not include 1) letter of release from lien-holder, 2) a bill of sale, or 3) the registration certificate.

Did You Lose Your Car Title?

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will allow car owners to replace a lost, faulty, or stolen car title if they can meet all the replacement requirements. This new title will have “DUPLICATE” printed on its face to show that is it not the original document, but it will work just the same. Once a duplicate title is issued, the original one is no longer valid. Download an Indiana State Certificate of Authority form to get started.

How to Sell a Car Without a Title in Indiana

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car for cash in Indianapolis, today! We have been buying junk cars throughout the Central Indiana area for several years. You will get the best price for your car because you are selling directly to the scrap yard! There is never a middle man, which means you walk away with more cash in your pocket. We buy all types of vehicles in all types of shape, running or not, and offer free towing and pick-up.

The Benefits of Selling a Junk Car

Posted on September 9, 2019 by junkcars17

Did you know that the junk car industry is helpful to the both the environment and the local economy? A person might be surprised to know that cars are among the most recycled items in the world! This is because of the value in scrap metal.

Continue reading for more information on scrap metal and reasons to sell your junk car.

Recycling Metal from Cars

Over 400 million tons of metal is recycled each and every year! Metal recycling is processing nonferrous and ferrous (containing iron) metal scraps into secondary raw material, for manufacturing of new metal materials. Almost every kind if metal can be recycled! And it is recycled into high quality metal! So when you sell a junk car, you are essentially recycling it since the buyers will continue with the metal scrapping and reusing process.

You might wonder how you would recycle your junk car, but simply calling your local junk car lot will get you started in the right direction. They will handle the entire process for you. All you do is make the call. Not only does recycling metal promote environmental conservation, it saves energy as well! The more car metal recycled results in less manufacturing of new car parts, conserving the raw resources and materials like carbon and oil, which is also very expensive.

It is amazing that nearly 95% of a car is recyclable. But it is really important that the recycling is done right. Cars have parts containing toxic liquids and parts like brake fluid, oil, and the battery. These parts and fluids cannot be allowed to soak into the ground. This is why it is so important to rely on a professional scrap yard company that retains the knowledge, experience, and most of all, the equipment to safely recycle these materials.

The Value of a Junk Car

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.

Where to Start

The most important part of selling your junk car for cash is to find a reputable and professional company to do business with. The problem you will run into is that there are literally hundreds of junk car buyers in the city to choose from, so making a decision can feel more like a gamble. To avoid getting stuck with an inexperienced, unprofessional, fly-by-the-night junk car buyer, simply find a company that has a strong and steadfast reputation within the local communities. Experience and the types of resources available to them set good companies apart from the scammers.

Get a Free Quote for a Junk Car in Indiana

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to get started on your free quote for selling a junk car in Central 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 then pay you cash on the spot. Request a free estimate, today!

How to Sell a Junk Car in Columbus, Indiana

Posted on August 19, 2019 by junkcars17

GC’s Junk Cars is a local auto salvage yard that has been recycling cars and scrap metal for years, making us the perfect choice for selling a junk car in Columbus, Indiana. Best of all, when you choose to sell your car to GC’s Junk Cars, you are selling directly to us. Why is this good for you? Well, we are not a middle man! This means when you sell to us directly, you will get more money in your pocket!

The Columbus Junk Car Buyers You Can Trust

Here at GC’s Junk Cars, we accept all junk cars, regardless of age, make, model, or condition. We want to take your junk car off your hands and replace it with real cash! Best of all, we offer free phone estimates, free pick up service, and cash on the spot! You will get paid the same day we come to collect your vehicle! Don’t have the title? Give us a call anyway because we can use alternate methods to verify that you own the car!

Here’s what to do to get paid cash on the spot for a junk car in Columbus:

➀ Call Us at 317-608-2188

➁ Get a Free Phone Quote

➂ Schedule Free Pick Up

➃ Get Paid Cash on the Spot!

Make a Profit and Feel Good About it Too!

Not only are we are the trustworthy junk car buyers who will make you a generous offer you can’t possibly refuse, we make it easy for you to get rid of your junk and make a profit at the same time! We will dispose of your vehicle according to all Indiana EPA regulations as well, so you can rest assured that your car will not have a negative impact on the environment.

Get Started TODAY!

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to request a free quote from a Columbus junk car buyer, today. And remember, 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 in Columbus, and then pay you cash on the spot. No located within the Columbus area? No problem! We also do business in all surrounding counties and neighborhoods. Request a free estimate, today!

What the Law Says About Scrapping Cars in Indiana

Posted on August 9, 2019 by junkcars17

By reviewing all sections in Indiana Code § 9-22-5, you will learn everything you need to know about scrapping junk cars in our state. This literature can come with some confusing industry and legal jargon, making it difficult to fully understand the laws surrounding scrapping motor vehicles in Indiana. For this reason, we have compiled some fundamental facts and information derived from the Indiana Code for a brief rundown of what you can expect.

Continue reading to review them now!

Scrapping Motor Vehicles – IC § 9-22-5-1.1

Here are some important points to take into consideration when scrapping a vehicle in Indiana:

You May Need a Certificate of Authority

According to the BMV, “A person who owns a vehicle that has a certificate of title that is faulty, lost, or destroyed, or who is the possessor of an abandoned vehicle may apply to the BMV for authority to sell, give away, or dispose of the vehicle for scrap metal without applying for a certificate of title. An approved Certificate of Authority – Disposal of a Motor Vehicle – State Form 55018 must be provided to the automotive salvage recycler, or other appropriate facility when disposing of the vehicle.”

You Need Proof of Ownership

In order to sell a junk car to a scrapper, you will need to prove ownership. According to IC § 9-22-3-4.4, “ (…)A copy of a certificate of title endorsed under IC 9-17-3-3.4 constitutes proof of transfer of ownership under subdivision (2).”

Try to Understand Fair Market Value

Fair market value is defined in IC § 9-22-3-2 as, “(1) the average trade-in value found in the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) Official Used Car Guide, vehicle valuations determined by CCC Information Services, Inc. (CCC), or valuations determined by such other authorities as are approved by the bureau; or (2) the fair market value determined by the bureau upon request.”

Avoid a Class C Misdemeanor

According to IC § 9-18.1-4-8, it is a Class C misdemeanor if a person, “knowingly sells, offers to sell, buys, possesses, or offers as genuine a certificate of registration for a vehicle that is required to be issued by the bureau and has not been issued by the (1) bureau under this article; or (2)appropriate governmental authority of another state.”

Learn More About Selling a Junk Car in Indiana

When you really just don’t know who to trust when it comes to scrapping a salvaged vehicle in 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.

Top 3 Tips for Selling a Junk Car for Cash

Posted on July 26, 2019 by junkcars17

Did you realize that your junk car is worth money? In fact, junked trucks, vans, boats, trailers, campers, tractors, bulldozers, forklifts, golf carts, motorcycles, scooters, and literally any other type of motorized equipment that runs on fuel is worth money! Of course, the amount of money you profit is largely dependent on finding the right buyer. In fact, that is the first vital tip for selling a junk car for cash and earning the highest profit.

Continue reading to learn the top 3 tips for making the most cash for your junk car!

❶ Find a Reputable Junk Car Buyer

Arguably, the most important factor to making the most money from selling a junk car (or other motorized asset) is finding a reputable and established Cash for Cars Company in your area. You do not have to find one directly in your town or local community, as reputable companies often have the proper resources to do business in a vast service area. So if you live in Avon, but your junk car buyer of choice is based out of Indianapolis, they may still be able to pick up your junk car at no extra cost to you; so long as you choose a business that can provide such customer amenities.

❷ Locate Your Relevant Car Documents

Once you have a junk car buyer in mind, you will need to gather your necessary car documents for them. Most Cash for Cars Companies require proof of ownership. The most common document to prove ownership is a car title, however, some junk car buyers are willing to accept other forms of ownership proof if you cannot find the car title, such as the vehicle registration or insurance policy. See our blog, “How to Sell a Junk Car That Has No Title” to learn some information about replacing lost or stolen car titles in Indiana.

❸ Prepare Your Junk Car for Pickup

One of the most commonly overlooked responsibilities that junk car owners neglect is preparing their vehicles for pickup. This includes removing all personal belongings, including CDs, books, paperwork, décor, clothing, and more. In addition to removing personal items, be sure to remove all license plates, both front and back, as well as, cancel the registration with the state. If you are not able to be present when the car is picked up, be sure to leave the appropriate paper work in the vehicle. Now your junk car is ready to be collected!

Get Top Dollar for Your Junk Car in Indianapolis

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to quickly and conveniently sell a junk car in Indianapolis. 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.

Does a Check Engine Light Mean My Car is Totaled?

Posted on July 11, 2019 by junkcars17

A Check Engine Light, or Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp (MIL), is an important safety component in every vehicle. All modern make and model vehicles are designed with a Check Engine Light feature, which are incorporated to alert drivers when something is not quite right with the operation and systems in the vehicle. Because an illuminated Check Engine Light means that something is wrong, often times, car owners begin to panic when theirs comes on. Sometimes, a Check Engine Light can remain illuminated even after having a car repaired. In this situation, you might be asking yourself whether or not your car is worth repairing.

Continue reading to learn what a Check Engine Light could mean, including when it could mean that your car is totaled.

Reasons Why Check Engine Lights Come On

The spectrum of issues that cause a Malfunctioning Indicator Lamp to illuminate range from minor to major. Some vehicles have two types of MIL’s, one that is solid and one that is flashing, both of which mean different warnings. Furthermore, some cars have two different colors of Malfunctioning Indicator Lamps; a yellow icon to indicate a problem, as well as, a red icon for a very serious problem that requires you to stop driving immediately.

Here’s Why Yours Might Be On Right Now:

? Loose Gap Cap – This is by far the most common minor reason why a Check Engine Light might illuminate. If you just filled up your tank, chances are, your Check Engine Light came on because your gas cap came off.

? Spark Plugs – If your car jolts or vibrates as its operating, and the Check Engine Light comes on, it could mean that your spark plugs are defective. If your car is driving abnormally, immediately pull over and call a tow truck.

? Low Fluids – If your vehicle is low on radiator fluid (coolant), motor oil, or another vital automotive fluid, your Check Engine Light might come on. Have your oil changed, and during the appointment, have all other fluids flushed and replaced.

? Oxygen (O²) Sensor (O2) – If your Check Engine Light comes on, and you know it’s not the gas cap or fluid levels, it could be because your oxygen sensor needs to be replaced. This part is responsible for measuring the level of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system.

? Catalytic Converter – If your catalytic converter is experiencing any type of problem, your Check Engine Light will let you know.

? Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) – Another common cause for an illuminated Check Engine Light is a defective mass airflow sensor (MAF). If this sensor is the problem, a simple replacement will turn that Check Engine Light back off.

When it Means a Car is Totaled

There are cases in which an illuminated Check Engine Light can mean that a car is totaled. If the Check Engine Light comes on because of something that requires extensive repairs or replacements that cost more than the overall value of the vehicle, the insurance company will likely deem the car a total loss. See our blog, “FAQS About Total Loss Cars and Claims” to learn more about total loss vehicles.