Saying goodbye to your trusty old car is never easy. Unfortunately, all cars will reach the end of their lifespan at some point and need to be put out to pasture. Knowing exactly what to do with your old junk car may take a bit of research and will often depend upon the state of your ride. If there are elements of your car that still run properly, for instance, you may have more options available than if the old clunker has given up altogether. However, even the most beaten-up automobiles may be worth something when handled correctly. This guide explores what to do with your old junk car when it finally reaches the end of its life.
Attempt to make a deal
As we’ve stated, there may be some circumstances where you can still make a bit of money off your old car. Some auto body shops may be interested in making a deal if they feel that there are parts of your car that are still worth saving. Certain car dealerships may even offer a trade-in program where they will take in your beaten down car in exchange for a discount on a newer model. Even if such businesses are not willing to buy your car, you may still be able to drum up some sort of deal. You can use social media to connect with potential buyers and make a deal selling the car yourself. Be sure to hone your negotiation skills ahead of time to make the most profitable deal possible.
Salvage it (if possible)
Even if your car no longer runs and is unable to be sold or traded in, you may still be able to make a small profit. Certain parts of your car may be salvageable, so long as they are still in decent condition. Smaller parts, specifically, can make you a bit of extra money on your old junk car. Remove the wheels, mirrors, sound system, or lights and sell them individually to turn a small profit. Depending on your car’s make and model, you may be able to make a pretty penny, especially if your car is no longer in production. These original parts will be much harder to find, and car enthusiasts, hobbyists, and even professionals may jump at the chance to get their hands on these items.
Send it to the scrapyard
If your car is completely beyond repair, your last option is to say your goodbyes and ship it off to the scrapyard. Your local scrapyard will strip the car down to its hull to salvage its most base metal materials. These metal materials can then be recycled in order to create new products in various industries. Most scrap yards will not charge you for these services. On the contrary, some may even pay you for your old car.