Introduction
Alternators might seem like minor components, but they carry surprising value in the scrap metal industry. If you scrapped your car or replaced an alternator recently, do not throw your scrap alternator away. Whether you own a garage, run an auto recycling business, or just have old car parts lying around, each alternator holds real value. Understanding how alternator scrap is priced can help you turn junk into cash. Let’s dig into this. Understand what the average paid price is, what influences the price, and how to get the best price in Canada.
Average Scrap Price of an Alternator
The scrap value of an alternator depends on its type, metal content, and overall condition. Most alternators contain copper, aluminum, and steel, all of which have value in the scrap metal market. The component materials offer an average economic value ranging from $5 to $25 per unit, depending on the type of metal.
In Canada, the most common alternator types, along with the expected scrap value, are found in the table below:
| Alternator Type | Estimated Scrap Price |
| Standard Car Alternator | $8 – $12 |
| Truck/Heavy-Duty Alternator | $15 – $25 |
| Hybrid Vehicle Alternator | $10 – $18 |
| High-Output Alternator | $12 – $20 |
| Motorcycle Alternator (Stator) | $5 – $10 |
| Damaged/Burnt Alternator | $2 – $6 |
Prices vary daily depending on local scrap yards and metal market rates. High copper content increases the rate, while burnt or damaged coils may reduce it.
Factors Affecting Alternator Scrap Prices
Alternator prices don’t stay fixed. Several factors control what scrapyards offer you for them.
Here are the main factors that determine how much you will get:
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- Copper Content: The more copper inside, the better. Alternators with thicker copper windings command a greater sale price.
- Condition: Clean, intact alternators without corrosion or burnt coils tend to fetch a higher price.
- Weight: The heavier the alternator, generally means more metal, which increases the scrap value.
- Market Metal Prices: Prices for copper and aluminum fluctuate. Increases in global prices result in increases in your alternator’s value.
- Alternator Type: Truck or heavy-duty alternators usually have more copper and stronger magnets.
- Scrapyard Location: Scrap yards pay different rates from province to province. Also, urban scrapyards will usually pay more due to competition from other scrapyards.
- Quantity: You will generally get a better rate if you sell in bulk, rather than just one.
- Yard Sorting Requirements: Some scrapyards will usually pay less if they have to take apart or sort through material.
Also Read: The Journey of Used Car Parts: From Canadian Scrap Yards to Global Markets
How to Maximize Your Alternator Scrap Price?
A few smart steps can boost what you earn for your old alternator. Follow these tips to make the most of your alternator’s value:
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- Detach Any Plastic or Rubber Parts: Get rid of all plastic and rubber that can be removed from the alternator to reveal the core metal, which doesn’t pay as well.
- Clean Dirt and Oil off Parts: A clean alternator appears to be more valuable and weighs less with unwanted grime.
- Separate Copper Windings if You Have Tools: If you have the tools and know-how, take the time to remove the copper windings. These can often be sold separately for a higher return; you would be able to sell them separately for more money.
- Consider selling them in bulk or with other car parts as well: Yards will pay you better if you bring multiple alternators or combine them with scrap batteries, starters, etc.
- Call Different Scrap Yards for Quotes: Don’t go with the first quote. Call around your city or town to find the highest offer.
- Avoid Peak Downtime (Winter Months): Prices often dip in winter due to lower demand. Spring or fall usually brings better rates.
- Know the Current Copper Rate: Check the global or Canadian copper price. If it’s high, hold off until it peaks even more.
Final Thoughts
Never ignore the value of a used alternator. What you may think of as junk may be worth way more than you think, just a few bucks. Especially when the alternator is or was a heavy-duty or hybrid model alternator. Scrap facilities like Greenway Auto Recycling buy old alternators for the metals like copper and aluminum, and offer good scrap value. Once you understand the outcome that affects the price, you can capitalize on this small vehicle part. Clean it up, price compare, time it perfectly, and you will get the most value.
