If your car is sitting idle, damaged beyond repair, or simply not worth spending money on, selling it to a auto wrecker might be the best decision you’ll make. While many car owners hesitate at first, not realising the actual value of their unwanted vehicles, the reality is that auto wreckers Perth see value in almost every car — even if it’s not roadworthy.
When a vehicle can’t be sold traditionally, wreckers step in. They’re not looking for flawless condition. They’re after usable parts, recyclable metals, and core components. This makes it possible for car owners to earn money from what seems like scrap.
The Type of Cars Wreckers Buy
One of the biggest advantages of dealing with a wrecker is the broad range of cars they’re willing to purchase. From rusted utes and dented hatchbacks to completely written-off sedans — most vehicles have value. And yes, that includes:
- Unregistered vehicles
- Flood-damaged or hail-damaged cars
- Accident-damaged or mechanically faulty vehicles
- Older models with outdated parts
- Cars that haven’t moved in years
The more complete your vehicle is — with its battery, tyres, catalytic converter, and engine intact — the more you’re likely to earn.
What Impacts the Value of Your Car?
Cash payouts from wreckers depend on a handful of factors. The make, model, and year are the starting point. Popular brands like Toyota, Ford, Holden, and Nissan often fetch higher prices due to demand for parts. Next comes the condition of the vehicle. Even a non-working car can be valuable if the engine or transmission is in salvageable condition. Cars that are complete (not stripped) are also more desirable because more components can be reused or recycled.
Then there’s the weight of the metal. Larger cars with more steel or aluminium content will usually attract higher payouts due to their scrap value. Vehicles that have been extensively dismantled, burnt, or crushed may only return a nominal fee.
What You’ll Need to Sell
To legally sell your car to a wrecker in WA, you’ll need to provide a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s licence or passport. You’ll also be expected to show proof of ownership, which could be your registration papers or a signed statutory declaration if the original documents have been lost. If your car is unregistered, that’s okay — most wreckers will still accept it. Just ensure your ownership is clear and that there are no encumbrances or finance owing on the vehicle.
Before the vehicle is picked up, it’s a good idea to remove personal belongings, number plates (if you’re applying for a refund), and check the glovebox and boot for anything important. Having a spare key helps, but it’s not always a deal-breaker.
Understanding the Recycling Process
Many car owners are surprised to learn what actually happens after their car is sold to a wrecker. It doesn’t just sit in a yard — it’s carefully dismantled, assessed, and processed for parts and scrap. Reusable components are cleaned and sold second-hand to mechanics, repairers, and vehicle owners across the country. Fluids like oil and coolant are drained and disposed of safely. Batteries are removed and recycled.
Metals are sorted and sent for further processing, often melted down and repurposed for manufacturing or construction industries. This responsible approach to recycling helps reduce landfill waste, lower the demand for new raw materials, and supports a more sustainable automotive industry.
Tips Before You Sell
If you want to get the best deal when selling your vehicle to a Perth auto wrecker, keep these few things in mind:
- Don’t rush the first quote. Reach out to more than one wrecker to get a competitive price.
- Be honest about the car’s condition. It helps avoid last-minute adjustments to the offer.
- Keep the car complete. A car with its parts intact is usually worth more.
- Be ready with ID and paperwork. This ensures the process is smooth and legal.
Some wreckers may also offer electronic payment transfers if you prefer that over cash-in-hand.
Final Thoughts
Selling your car to a Perth auto wrecker isn’t just about getting rid of an unwanted vehicle — it’s about freeing up space, earning instant cash, and contributing to a greener environment. If your car has reached the end of its road, a wrecker may be the last — and best — stop it makes. There’s no need to let your vehicle continue to gather dust. With the right approach, you can turn it into value again, even if it hasn’t started in years.