A junk car in the garage or driveway can be an eyesore, and it can also be a source of toxic chemicals that contaminate the surrounding environment. Brake fluid, motor oil, acid, and gasoline may seep into the soil if their containers start to corrode. Fortunately, there are several responsible ways to dispose of scrap cars.

How to Get Rid of Junk Cars

1. Sell the Parts

Most junk cars still have working parts in them, including windows, doors, tires, engines, catalytic converters, starters, and alternators. Used auto parts can be sold in the aftermarket and often fetch surprisingly high prices, especially parts that are no longer manufactured or available. Before putting them up for sale, inspect the parts first for any damage. Take necessary precautions when dismantling your junk car, doing it only if you have the right tools and experience. Otherwise, it’s better and safer to let a professional handle the dirty work of disassembly.

2. Recycle for Scrap

If you don’t want to expend any effort in disposing of a junk car, call a trusted local salvage yard and exchange it for cash. Most scrap yards and recycling centers are willing to take in old clunkers because the scrap metal in them—aluminum, steel, and iron—has value to recyclers. Depending on the metal and its scarcity, the price per pound varies. Steel and iron are worth more than aluminum. Aside from earning a bit of cash, recycling a car for scrap benefits the environment. Take it to a licensed recycling center to ensure proper dismantling and eco-conscious disposal.         

3. Donate to Charity

Another way to get rid of your junk car is to donate it. Find a local charity that’s willing to take in your clunker, which they’ll likely sell to a junk or scrap yard. Choose a reputable charity to qualify for a tax deduction, or your donation won’t benefit you as much as you’d expect. Transfer the vehicle registration to the charity, and obtain a record of the donation, along with the vehicle’s estimated fair market value. Brush up on the pertinent IRS guidelines to know whether you’ll be eligible for a tax write-off.

Need to dispose of any junk cars? Get in touch with Phipps Auto Parts in Goshen, OH. As a licensed scrap metal recycling center and salvage yard, they’ve been accepting junk cars and paying the best rates in the Greater Cincinnati area since 1980. Learn more about their buying, reselling, and recycling programs for used car parts online, or call (513) 722-2034 to schedule a scrap car pickup today.