Introduction
You’re planning to scrap your old car, but you may be wondering if removing and selling some parts first could earn you extra money. Many car owners overlook parts that may still have resale value.
If you scrap your vehicle without checking its reusable parts, you might leave some money on the table. Old car radios, GPS systems, and certain components can still have resale value. However, not every part is worth removing, and taking parts off without the right tools or knowledge can cause damage.
Car enthusiasts on forums such as Reddit also share experiences of selling older radios and other components. Vintage stereos can attract collectors, especially when the model is uncommon and the unit is in working condition. Older Pioneer and Sony units are examples of the type of equipment that may attract interest in niche markets. These examples show that checking your car’s parts before selling it to a junkyard is important.
This blog will help you decide which parts may be worth checking before you scrap your car. You’ll also learn what can affect the resale value of these components and when removing a part may not be worth the effort.
1. GPS Systems
Factory-installed GPS systems, especially from higher-end vehicles, can have resale value when they are in good working condition. Many car owners prefer built-in navigation over mobile apps because of seamless integration and offline usability. GPS systems from brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Lexus tend to have higher resale value. Their resale value can vary widely depending on the vehicle, model year, condition, and whether the unit is still working. The main buyers here are mechanics, auto shops, and car owners who are looking for replacements. If you have a high-end unit, listing it on platforms like eBay or Kijiji can help you get a better price.
2. Old Car Radios
Older car radios can still have resale value, especially when they are uncommon, working, and sought after by owners restoring a particular vehicle. Vintage models like Pioneer KEH-P6200 or Sony XR-C900 are highly sought after by car enthusiasts who want to restore classic cars. Standard factory radios may have limited resale value, while rare or high-end models can be worth considerably more. The exact price depends on the part number, condition, compatibility, and demand for that model.
Also Read: How to Maximize Your Profit When Selling a Scrap Car in Canada
3. Airbags
Airbags are safety-critical components, so they should not be treated like ordinary used car parts. While replacement airbags can be expensive, buyers should verify the part, condition, compatibility, and applicable safety requirements before purchasing or installing one. A steering wheel airbag typically sells for $50 to $200, while passenger-side airbags go for $100 to $300. Side curtain airbags can bring in $75 to $250. However, due to safety concerns and regulations, some jurisdictions may have restrictions on selling used airbags.
4. Doors
Car doors are among the most commonly replaced parts, especially for vehicles that are damaged in accidents. If your car’s doors are in good condition, selling them separately can fetch a good price. A complete used door can have good resale value when the shell, hinges, glass, lock, and interior trim are in usable condition. The price depends heavily on the vehicle, colour, condition, and which components are included.
5. Bumpers
Bumpers are one of the most frequently damaged parts in minor collisions. Instead of buying new ones, many car owners and repair shops look for used bumpers in good condition. A bumper’s value depends on the vehicle, condition, colour, and whether it includes useful components such as parking sensors, grilles, brackets, or other trim. Rising repair costs can make used replacement parts more attractive to vehicle owners and repair shops.
Also Read: Scrap Car Prices in Canada: What Affects the Value of Your Vehicle?
6. Infotainment Systems
Modern infotainment systems with touchscreens, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto can have resale value, especially when the unit is working and compatible with a popular vehicle. A high-end infotainment system from brands like Tesla, Audi, or BMW can sell for $200 to $1,000. Standard units from economy cars are still valuable and can sell for $100 to $500.
7. Wheels and Tires
Used wheels and tires can be easier to sell when they are in good condition, have plenty of usable tread, and fit a popular vehicle. In Canada, individual tires in good condition sell for $50 to $150 each, while alloy wheels can give you $100 to $300 per wheel. Winter tires are popular in Canada, particularly in areas with regular winter snow and ice. However, requirements vary by province. In Ontario, winter tires are recommended but are not generally mandatory for passenger vehicles.
8. Catalytic Converter
Catalytic converters can be among the more valuable recyclable components of a vehicle because they contain small amounts of precious metals. They contain precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium, which help reduce emissions. These metals are rare and are often targeted by thieves. These metals are recovered and reused in various industrial applications. Their value can vary significantly depending on the vehicle, converter type, condition, and the current value of the recoverable metals.
9. A Car Battery
A car battery may still have recycling value because it contains lead and other recoverable materials. If you remove it before scrapping the vehicle, you may be able to recover some additional value by taking it to an appropriate battery or recycling facility. Lead inside the battery is reusable, and recycling prevents environmental damage. You can get anywhere from $10 to $50 for the battery, depending on its condition.
Also Read: Should You Fix Your Car Before Scrapping It?
10. Car’s Engine
A working engine can be one of the more valuable components of an older vehicle, particularly if there is demand for that specific engine. Even non-functional engines can be sold for parts. Used engines can be repaired or sold for individual components. The value can vary widely depending on the engine type, vehicle, mileage, condition, and whether it is complete and running.
11. Car Seats
If the vehicle’s seats are in good condition, they may have resale value for vehicle repairs, restoration projects, or replacements. Many car owners prefer used seats over expensive new ones. Leather and premium seats hold more value than standard ones. A car seat with lost padding, stains, or tears is usually less valuable. The resale price ranges from $80 to $300 per seat.
Conclusion
Selling a few reusable parts before scrapping your car may help you recover some extra value. Radios, GPS systems, wheels, body panels, and some mechanical components may still have resale value, depending on their condition and demand.
Before removing anything, check whether the part is safe and legal to sell and whether there is enough demand to make the effort worthwhile. If you would rather have the vehicle handled as a whole, you can contact our Toronto junkyard and speak with our auto recycling team about dismantling and recycling the vehicle.
