It’s important that you regularly check your vehicle’s battery system. When the odometer turns over the chances are the car’s original battery will not be in place. This is because like everything else car batteries also have definite shelf life. No amount of care or maintenance can reverse the effects of chemicals on metal. In the future someday, it’s certain the battery of your vehicle must be replaced.
If you are trying to get cash for junkers another option is to break it up into parts. You can then list some of the parts for sale on eBay or Craig’s list. Make it easy on yourself and only accept bidders that are willing to come and pick up the items, unless they are small enough that you don’t mind shipping them. A couple of other cash for junkers options are to recycle the catalytic converter at a scrap yard as this will bring in some cash and sell the tires if they are in good enough shape to do so.
While there are many benefits to buying car parts online, there are some cautions to be aware of, like with anything. Always be sure you know who you are buying from and that they are a reputable dealer. You also want to be sure you are aware of any warranties and return policies that may be in effect for the items that you plan to purchase.
If your vehicle has a salvage title, its market value will be very low. This will increase the LTV ratio. Lenders usually stay away from refinancing such cars because of the higher risk involved.
Keep in mind that junkyards are similar to swap meets in that most prices are negotiable. This is especially true when you’re buying parts that are not in good condition. Ask for a discount or offer a lower price. Junkyards will often agree just to move the inventory. That being said, you can expect to pay nearly half of the cost of a new part. For example, a water pump for a BMW 740i may cost $140 new. Expect to pay $70 (in cash) at the junkyard.
For parts that are large, some 2003 cadillac seville yards will haul them for you. This is something to ask when you make the phone call. Some people will buy the entire vehicle in order to scrap it themselves. Other parts such as trunk lids, hoods, door panels, and roofs can be too large for some to haul as well. If you need them to haul it for you, ask them how much they will do it for. Make sure that you comparison shop if you feel the price is too steep. If no one else can do any better or they don’t have the part, you can always call them back and tell them you will be there to make the purchase. You are not obligated the moment you make the phone call.
Once you have made the choice not to fix your car, you then have to decide how to dispose of it. You do not want to sell a potentially dangerous vehicle to an unsuspecting person. If that is the case, selling it to a private person should not be an option. That will narrow your choices down to selling it to a junk yard or donating car to charity.
Don’t be greedy. Now, I understand that this is all about getting the top dollar for your car, but, there is a walk-away price for any business. Most salvagers are only willing to pay a little more then half of what they can make off the car. So, if your asking price is more then 65% of what they can make, then they will more then likely walk away from it.
Remember you get what you pay for. There are many online sellers listing car parts that appear to be a bargain, however it is important to note that these may not last very long, or worse still, they may put you and your family in danger.