While some junk cars can be restored to make them roadworthy; the cars that are beyond the scope of restoration can still offer value for money. For example, such cars can be used to extract parts or can be used to recycle parts and make money. This also explains the reason why many vehicle enthusiasts turn to online junk cars auctions and buy them at a cheap price. If you are looking to buy a junk car, in this article we share five ways to make money off of it. 

1. Engine 

While some junk cars have functional engines that can be reused in another vehicle. Junk cars with dead engines can be put to some good use. The dead engine can be melted down and recycled. Aluminum engines are, however, more useful than others as aluminum does not deteriorate significantly after melting. 

2. Tires

A tire can either be reused or recycled depending upon its tread depth. Worn out tires can be shredded, cleaned, and processed for other rubber based products, such as asphalt for paving roads and playground surfaces. Worn out tires can also be used as wastewater treatment filters.

3. Starter & Alternator

Starters and alternators are expensive commodities. Junk cars might be damaged on the outside, but their starters and alternators are mostly in good condition. In case the alternator has turned brown, it is no longer usable, but it can still be dismantled and melted down to create other useful products.

4. Gasket

A gasket can be reused if there isn't any apparent damage. Damaged metal gaskets can be melted and recycled. Some gaskets that look clean on the surface may still leak, therefore, it is important to consult a mechanic or a car expert to ensure that the gasket is in reusable condition. 

5. Scrap Metal and Floor Mats

Metal constitutes a huge portion of a car's total mass. Parts like axles, aluminum rims, doors and other metal parts can be sold to scrap metal companies for recycling. Car mats that are in good condition can simply be installed in another car. If the car mats are completely worn out, they can be used in gardening to insulate compost.

Last Word

Some people treat junk cars as scrap and see no value in them, but as we can see in this article, that is far from the truth. A junk car has many components that can still be used in another car or in case of a total junk, its parts can still be melted and recycled. If you are looking to buy a junk car for sale, you will find a plethora of salvage auto auction websites selling junk cars. It is, however, important to buy them from a reputable company to avoid any scams. Read online customer reviews before choosing an online auction platform featuring junk cars for sale.