Selling your car for parts: what you need to know

If your car no longer runs or isn’t worth repairing, selling it for parts could be the best next step. Instead of selling the entire vehicle, you can break it down and sell specific pieces to buyers that need them for their own cars.

This way, you can make some money while helping others find the pieces they need – it’s a win-win situation.

At BigWantsYourCar.com, we’re experts in buying and selling cars and can give you a guaranteed valuation that lasts for 7 days. Still exploring your options? No problem – in this blog, we’ve pulled together all the information you need to know about selling a car for parts.

Key Takeaways

• How do I sell my car for parts?
• How long will it take to strip my car for parts?
• How much money can you make from selling your car for parts?
  • Engine
  • Gearbox
  • Catalytic converters
  • Wheels
  • Headlights
• What are the easiest car parts to sell?
• Is it worth scrapping a car instead?

View our post – How to transfer car ownership

How do I sell my car for parts?

There are a couple of options available to you when you’re selling a car for parts. If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, you can dismantle the vehicle yourself, carefully removing pieces like the engine, gearbox and body panels.

Doesn’t sound like your cup of tea? Then take your car to a professional who can dismantle and buy the parts in one go. While this can save you time and effort, they may offer you a lower price to cover the cost of stripping down the vehicle.

If you opt to do it yourself, you can advertise the parts online, using platforms like Gumtree and Facebook Marketplace. Make sure you include any photos and information on their condition.

How long will it take to strip my car for parts?

The time it takes to remove each part can vary, depending on how easy it is to access. For example, removing the engine could take a few hours, while taking out the seats will likely be easier and need less time.

Once each part is removed, give them a good clean and take clear photos from different angles to help potential buyers see their current condition. After this, all you’ve got to do is list them online.

There are various places you can make listings, such as eBay Motors, Facebook Marketplace or even specific auto parts websites. Just make sure you include a detailed description and outline which vehicles they’re compatible with.

How much money can you make from selling your car for parts?

The answer isn’t so cut and dry – the amount of money you make will depend on things like the condition of the parts and the current demand for them. However, there are a few parts that are usually considered the most valuable, these are:

Engine

While its condition and compatibility with other cars heavily affects the value, the engine of a car is usually considered the most valuable part.

Gearbox

Gearboxes are expensive to repair or replace and many people rebuilding or upgrading their own cars are looking for them. This means they are often in high demand, driving up their overall price.

Catalytic converters

These emissions control devices are valuable for scrap metal as they contain precious metals, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

Wheels

Alloy wheels or specialty rims can be quite valuable, especially if they are in good condition and compatible with other vehicles.

Headlights

Headlights can be pricey to replace, making them a sought-after item. Plus, the newer models with advanced lighting technology may have a higher value in the market.

In addition to these parts, other interior components like seats, panels, and infotainment systems can also hold value.

What are the easiest car parts to sell?

The easiest car parts to sell are generally the most sought-after ones. Engines are often considered the most valuable part and can fetch a decent price if in good working condition. Gearboxes are also in high demand, as they can be expensive to repair or replace.

Complete interiors, including seats, dashboards, and electronics, are desirable for those looking to upgrade or restore their own vehicles. Wheels, especially alloy or specialty rims, are also highly sought after.

Is it worth scrapping a car instead?

While you may get more money from selling your car for parts, scrapping is easier and cheaper and a much quicker way to get the job sorted.

To scrap your car, you’ll need to drop it off at a licensed scrapyard or Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF). You’ll also need to let the DVLA know so that you can get a Certificate of Destruction to prove that your car has been properly disposed of.

Is it time to sell your car?

If the time has come to hand over your keys to a new owner, there’s no better place to sell your car than BigWantsYourCar.com. With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, you can trust us to give you a fair, honest price.

It’ll take no time either – just enter a few quick details online, and you’ll have a car valuation that’s guaranteed for 7 days. There’s no hidden fees, no faffy processes and we do all the hard parts for you – we’ll even come and collect the car for free. Got some questions? Get in touch today and our teams will be on hand to help.