How to Tell if Your Car Has Bad Spark Plugs

Posted on March 30, 2022 by junkcars17

You don’t have to be a mechanic to know when something’s going wrong within your vehicle. Many automotive systems and parts will present signs that indicate they need repaired or replaced, including the spark plugs. Not sure what spark plugs do? Don’t know how to look for signs of bad Spark plugs? No problem.

Continue reading to learn how to tell if your car has bad spark plugs, plus what you can do if your car is no longer a good candidate for repair.

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Spark Plug Basics

Your vehicle contains all sorts of electrical systems and devices. That is exactly what your spark plugs are. They are small, internal electrical devices designed to trigger combustion within the engine by igniting the air-fuel mixture within the combustion chambers of the engine’s cylinders. This in turn provides power to the engine and allows you to drive your vehicle. So, if your spark plugs are bad, you’re not going to have any luck turning over the ignition, nor maintaining smooth driving operation.

Spark Plug Replacement

The good news is that spark plugs tend to last a long time. In fact, you probably won’t have to change at your spark plugs until you take your car in a few times for routine service. Your mechanic will likely tell you when you need your spark plugs replaced. More good news is that spark plug replacement is typically inexpensive because they are on the cheaper side of automotive parts. Keep in mind, you will need to pay for labor to have them installed in addition to the price of the spark plugs.

Generally, spark plugs can last up to 100,000 miles or more. It is suggested that copper spark plugs do not last as long as industry conventional spark plugs made of platinum or iridium. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific recommendations on spark plug replacement for your make and model vehicle.

Common Signs of Failing Spark Plugs

Ready to learn how to spot the signs of bad spark plugs in your vehicle? Your spark plugs might be going bad if any of these statements are true about you and your vehicle:

▶ You are experiencing poor gas mileage.
▶ The engine continues to misfire.
▶ You have trouble starting your engine.
▶ Your vehicle accelerates slowly, or slower than before.
▶ Your vehicle has rough idling.

It is important to have your spark plugs replaced in a timely manner so that you can get the best use out of your vehicle. If you fail to provide your car with the proper maintenance and repairs along the way, it will eventually total out. Once your car is a total loss, it is no longer a good candidate for repair. In such a case, you can sell it to a local junk car buyer in Indianapolis for cash on the spot.

Are you ready to get started with the junk car selling process in Indianapolis? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to learn the honest scrap value for your junk car from a licensed Indiana auto salvage associate. We provide free junk car removal too!

How to Listen for a Transmission Problem in Your Car

Posted on September 29, 2021 by junkcars17

Your car’s transmission will let you know that it is experiencing some level of failure. All you have to do is listen! Continue reading to learn what common transmission problems sound like, and what to do if you simply cannot afford to repair your transmission in Indianapolis.

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Transmission Noises That Should Be Examined

Your car makes a lot of different noises. Most are harmless, a few might be temporary, but some are indicative of an automotive problem. From clunking and humming to high-pitched whining, some sounds are telling you there is a problem specifically with the transmission.

Here are some of the most common transmission sounds that should be examined further by a licensed mechanic, as they could be a sign that your car needs some automotive service or repair:

Gurgling

If you hear water-like noises, such as gurgling, sloshing, or trickling, it could be an indication that your transmission fluid is low. The cause of the gurgling noises is due to air pockets that form within the transmission lines as a result of a lack of fluid.

Clunking

Clunking is a common automotive noise that is indicative of a transmission problem. The most likely culprit behind clunking sounds is a problem with the torque converter mounts. You can test this by keeping your foot on the brake and placing your car in neutral, then revving the engine slightly as you put the gear back and drive. If you hear clunking noise, you can be sure the torque converter mounts are the issue.

Humming

As you accelerate in your vehicle, if you hear a humming noise as you reach higher speeds, it could be indicative of a transmission problem. Generally, the culprit lies within the transmission pump.

Grinding or Metal Scraping

Automotive noises that sound like grinding, metal scraping, or metal-on-metal contact are generally a telltale sign of a transmission problem stemming from the planetary gear system. The planetary gear system is responsible for ensuring that your transmission shifts smoothly. This issue is only evident in automatic transmission vehicles.

High-Pitched Whining

Hearing a constant whining or high-pitched whining noise when shifting gears is generally a sign of a clogged transmission filter. You can be sure this is the culprit if the whining noise gets worse when you shift into reverse. If coupled with grinding noises, it could be an issue within the planetary gear system.

Growling or Rumbling

If you hear sounds that are more like growling, rumbling, or low pitched whining, it could be an issue within the planning you can rest assure that there is an issue within the transmission. Typically, these noises are indicative of a problem within the planetary gear system. Again, the system ensures that your transmission shifts gears smoothly and easily.

All of these noises are considered emergency auto repairs that should be diagnosed and resolved by licensed mechanic as soon as possible. If you hear these noises in your car, your vehicle is not safe to drive unless you are driving it straight to the auto shop.

Is your transmission in trouble but you cannot afford auto repair? Perhaps the cost of transmission repair is higher than the total value of your vehicle? If so,contact GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your total loss vehicle for cash on the spot to our trusted Indianapolis cash for cars company!

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The Average Cost to Replace a Catalytic Converter

Posted on February 12, 2021 by junkcars17

When your car breaks down, and the diagnosis comes back as a faulty or defective catalytic converter, you might have some concerns about your finances. That is because catalytic converters are known to be one of the pricier auto parts, even if you go the used or refurbished route. Although needing catalytic converter replacement is not as financially devastating as needing major engine work or replacement, you can still expect to pay a nice chunk of cash if yours breaks downs for good. In some cases, catalytic converter replacement is so expensive, car insurance companies will deem a car a total loss.

If your catalytic converter just broke down, your first step is to learn how much a replacement will cost you. Continue below to learn just that, as well as what other option you have if you cannot afford a replaced catalytic converter.

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Catalytic Converter Basics

A catalytic converter is designed to be an emissions control automotive component that protects the environment by filtering out the toxic byproducts produced by burning fuel. Basically, they transform harmful emissions produced by the exhaust, or tailpipe. Within their internal structure lies catalyst particles that burn millions of harmful hydrocarbons, rendering them less harmful before they have a chance to enter our surrounding atmosphere.

Not only is it extremely harmful to the surrounding environment to have a defective catalytic converter, it is also dangerous to your health. This auto part is so important that, in some states, smog test procedures are mandated by law to ensure vehicles are not a pollution threat. Here in Indiana, we do not have to do emissions testing on our vehicles, but the automotive industry must manufacture all automobiles with a catalytic converter in order to remain compliant with the U.S. emission regulations and clean air laws.

Should You Replace or Repair Your Catalytic Converter?

Because of their role in hydrocarbon super-heating, catalytic converters must be made primarily out of rare, naturally-occurring precious metals, like platinum and rhodium. This makes them expensive, even if you buy one used or refurbished. Now, here comes the numbers: on average, the cost to replace a catalytic converter is between $950 to $2500, depending on if you are buying one new, used, or restored. So, in many cases, when an old car needs a new catalytic converter, the car is totaled because the price to repair it exceeds its current market worth.

A new catalytic converter tends to cost anywhere from $950 to $2500, new or used.

What to Do if You Cannot Afford to Replace a Catalytic Converter in Indianapolis

If you cannot afford to replace your catalytic converter, or your car is now totaled because the catalytic converter broke down, simply call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to earn instant cash on the spot for your catalytic converter and your totaled car. Not only do we pay the highest amounts of cash for junk cars in Central Indiana, but we also provide free junk car removal and free quotes. Just contact us and accept our offer, and our Indianapolis junk car buyers will take it from there! You just sit back, relax, and wait for your easy money to arrive on time, as promised! Most often, we offer same-day service too! Learn more by calling 317-608-2188, today.

The Real Way to Maximize Your Profit When Selling a Junk Car

Posted on December 29, 2020 by junkcars17

A junked car, truck, van, boat, trailer, camper, tractor, bulldozer, forklift, golf cart, and any other motorized commodity is worth money. That is, if you find the right type of buyer. In fact, you can double your advantage by making a profit and getting rid of space-consuming junk, all at once! However, it is important to know your options so that you can make the best decision for your junk car. There are two primary options for selling a junk vehicle. The option you choose will depend on your personal preference and available resources, and render a different profit level.

Continue reading to learn your options for making the most money from your junk commodity.

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Sell Each Individual Car Part

If you want to make the highest level of profit possible for your junk car, you can choose to sell it part for part. However, you will need a true car mechanic that has the tools and knowledge to disassemble your vehicle, piece by piece, without jeopardizing their value or performance level. They will need to start by inspecting the vehicle to determine which parts are still functional and which are junked. Then they must take it apart while preserving each piece.

Why Many Do Not Recommend Selling a Junk Car Part By Part…

The downside is that you likely have to pay a mechanic to do this, which takes away from your total profit. Furthermore, you would have to take the time to post each part for sale, as well as manage each individual transaction yourself. This is time-consuming and somewhat inconvenient. For others, this is a fun and exciting project that is totally possible to accomplish. It all depends on your personal preference, resources, and availability.

Sell the Whole Car as One

The most common way to make a profit from a junk vehicle is to sell it as a whole. Although you make less than selling it part for part, it is the preferred method for a reason. Not only is this much easier and more convenient, but it also saves a lot of time while still rendering a decent profit. It is important to find the right buyer if you want to make as much as you can from selling your entire junk car.

Find a Central Indiana junk car buyer who has the technologies capable of assessing the true value of your vehicle. Electronic platform scales are something you want to look for in a junk car buyer. These buyers usually pay cash on the spot, and will even pick up your car for free. Just be sure to ask which amenities they offer, how much they are willing to pay you for your vehicle, and how soon they can do business.

Make the Most Money in Indianapolis and Sell Your Junk Car to Us!

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell a junk car in Indianapolis for the highest profit possible. Our Indianapolis junk car buyers accept any and all 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!

The Best Way to Make Good Use of a Junk Car

Posted on July 29, 2020 by junkcars17

Sure, you can turn a junk car to some piece of eccentric art or even a garden planter. You can also dismantle it piece by piece, and enter every component into a database to sell them off individually. However, all of these options take a lot of effort on your part, making them somewhat inconvenient and even expensive. There is only one way to really make good use of a junk car, and that is to sell it to your local auto salvage yard.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about selling a junk car, including how you can make fast cash doing so.

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How to Find a Trusted Junk Car Buyer Near You

The problem with selling a junk car to a local auto salvage yard is that there are hundreds to choose from, but only a select few that have integrity. Many people who wish to sell a junk car wind up choosing a fly-by-the-night company that makes a lot of promises, but never comes through. And more importantly, doesn’t end up paying what they said they would, if at all.

In order to avoid being scammed by a so-called junk car buyer, be sure to look for certain, vital criteria, including their online reputation and customer reviews, their references, and how long they’ve been in business. A reputable junk car buyer will pay you the full and fair amount for your junk cars worth, and in cash on the spot. You don’t have to wait for an ambiguous check to arrive in the mail weeks or months later, nor do you have to worry whether or not they are making a fair offer. See our blog, “The Best Way to Make Good Use of a Junk Car” to learn exactly how to choose the right Cash for Cars Company near you.

How to Sell a junk Car in Indianapolis

Selling a junk car, when you choose the right buyer that is, is very simple to do. In fact, all you really need to do is pick up the phone and make a call. Of course, you’ll also need to accept junk car buyers offer and remove all of your plates and personal belongings before the wrecker operator comes to haul it away. Here’s the basic process of how to sell a junk car in Indianapolis, Indiana:

1) Contact an Experienced Indianapolis Cash for Cars Company.
2) Request a Free Quote Over the Phone or Schedule an On-Site Assessment
3) Schedule a Time to Have Your Junk Car Hauled Away.
4) Take Your Cash on the Spot!

For an even easier version of getting rid of a junk car, see our blog, “Learn How to Sell Your Junk Car in 5 Easy Steps” for a step-by-step guide on how to do business with an Indianapolis junk car buyer.

Sell Your Junk Car to GC’s Junk Cars in Indianapolis, Indiana!

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 for an easy and profitable junk car selling process in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas! 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!

Types of Precious Metal That Might Be in Your Junk Car

Posted on May 29, 2020 by junkcars17

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.

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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.

3 Things You Can Do With Old Car Parts

Posted on September 7, 2017 by junkcars17

Sell Your Old Car Parts
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There are many reasons why you might have a heap of old car parts laying around. You could have had a junked car that you took apart, you might have inherited several pieces from a friend or family member, or they could have even been collected through years of garage sale shopping. Regardless of how you got your car parts, the options you have for putting them to use are the same.

Although there are probably endless ideas for putting old car puts to good use, there are 3 common applications we see in the industry. Continue reading to learn 3 great things to do with your old car parts!

❶ Artistic Applications

If you are an artist or craftsman, you might enjoy cleaning up and polishing your old car parts, and then using them to create metal artwork, like chairs, tables, statues, wall racks, and more. You can also make old car parts into interior fixtures for your home, such as lighting fixtures, bathtub faucets, and several more interesting things. Many people are making amazing and useful artistic creations from old auto parts, and you can too!

❷ Spare Car Parts

A common useful application for an old car part is to refurbish it and reuse it for another car. Many auto part stores actually sell OEM standard used car parts that have been professional refurbished and market for resale as a used product. However, if you have a perfectly good spare car part, you can just use it for another vehicle that needs it, wait for a time when your vehicle will need it, or sell it to someone who needs it now. All three options are a great way to put an old car part to good use. It can even make you some money!

❸ Scrap Old Car Parts

If your old automotive parts are not good candidates for refurbishment and resale, you can still make good use from them. Scrap metal buyers will purchase your old car parts, regardless of their age or condition; and many scrap metal buying companies will even pay cash on the spot. If you do not wish to make a profit, you can simply donate them for recycling instead. Scrap metal and junk car buyers recycle and reuse all components to a vehicle, and you can maybe use your donation as a tax write off. So it is a win-win scenario!

Sell Your Junk Car Parts to Us!

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!