What Makes a Vehicle a Junk Car?

Posted on September 1, 2023 by gcsjunk

In the realm of automotive life, the term “junk car” is often thrown around, but what exactly defines a vehicle as a junk car? Is it the rusty exterior, the non-working engine, or the accumulation of high mileage? The truth is, it’s not just about aesthetics or functionality. A car’s “junk” status is intimately tied to its actual cash value and whether it is considered a total loss.

In this blog post, we delve into the specifics that categorize a vehicle as a junk car, aiming to provide a clear, informative guide for car owners navigating this often confusing terrain. Stay tuned as we journey into the world of junk cars.

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What is a Junk Car?

Put simply, a junk car is any vehicle with an actual cash value (ACV) of $500 or less. In plain terms, the actual cash value of a car denotes its worth in the automotive market and may be determined by evaluating several different factors such as age, condition, make and model. In some cases, the ACV may be lower than $500, in which case it is safe to classify the car as a junk vehicle.

Determining Whether Your Car is a Junk Vehicle

You can find out whether your car meets the criteria of a “junk” vehicle by submitting its details to an online ACV calculator or consulting with an automotive expert. The decision to declare a car as a junk vehicle ultimately lies with your insurance provider, who may deem the car irreparable and consider it a total loss following an accident.

What Happens When You Declare Your Car as Junk?

If you have determined that your junk car is indeed worth $500 or less, then it is classified as “totaled” and you may receive payment from your insurance company for the car’s ACV. It is important to note that after your car has been declared a total loss, it can no longer be driven on public highways or registered for use.

What to Do with Your Junk Car?

After being declared “totaled”, you will likely want to get rid of your junk car as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are a few different options available for disposing of your vehicle in an efficient and safe manner. One option is to seek out an auto parts recycler who will be able to take apart the various components of your car and re-sell them for profit. In some cases, you may be able to receive a small amount of money in exchange for your car; however, this option is often not the most lucrative.

Another route that many people take when it comes to getting rid of their junk cars is donating them to charities or local non-profits. Although you will not receive any cash compensation from these organizations, you can typically write off the donation on your taxes. Additionally, you will be helping out a good cause and will have the satisfaction of knowing that your car is being put to good use.

Finally, you may also consider selling your vehicle to an auto scrapyard or scrap metal recycling center. Here, you can expect to receive some money in exchange for the car; however, it will typically be much less than the original value of your vehicle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to understand what makes a car a junk vehicle and all the different options available for disposing of your “totaled” car. By utilizing the information provided in this blog post, you can confidently make an informed decision regarding how to move forward with your junk vehicle. Cars may come and go, but knowing how to properly handle a junk car can help make sure you get the most out of each automotive experience. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be able to navigate the world of junk cars with ease and confidence.

Junk cars are valuable assets, as they can put cash in your wallet instantly! Don’t believe it? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell a junk car for cash on the spot to a trusted Louisville junk car buyer! We offer free junk car removal in all surrounding counties.

Stretch Your Dollar: How to Find Affordable Car Parts

Posted on August 17, 2023 by gcsjunk

When it comes to car maintenance and repair, the cost of parts can quickly accumulate, making it a financial burden for many car owners. However, obtaining affordable car parts, whether new or used, doesn’t have to be an arduous or expensive process. With a bit of ingenuity, a keen eye for deals, and the right knowledge, you can stretch your dollar and keep your vehicle in top shape without breaking the bank.

This blog post will guide you through the process of finding cost-effective car parts while ensuring you don’t compromise on the quality and longevity of your vehicle. Let’s dive in and explore how you can make the most out of every penny spent!

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Tips For Buying Used Car Parts

The most economical option when it comes to buying car parts is opting for used ones. This can be done either by visiting a local auto salvage yard in Louisville, browsing through online classifieds listings, or checking out websites that specialize in the sale of used car parts. While the savings are significant compared to new parts, it’s important to do your research and ensure the part is in good condition before making a purchase.

When it comes to finding used car parts online, always take into consideration shipping costs as these can add up quickly if you are purchasing multiple parts. It’s also wise to read customer reviews when possible, so you can get an idea of what other customers have experienced with their purchases.

Shopping for New Car Parts

New car parts can be a bit more costly than their used counterparts, but they come with the advantage of being brand new and covered by a manufacturer’s warranty. If you decide to go this route, there are several ways to save on your purchase:

▶ Check online for discounted items: Many automotive part manufacturers offer discounts on their products, either through their own website or a discount-based one. Make sure to check both regularly to see what deals are currently available.

▶ Take advantage of sales and coupons: Automotive stores often have seasonal sales and coupon codes that can help you save money on your car parts purchase. Be sure to keep an eye out for these offers during holidays, special events, or even when you make a purchase from their store.

▶ Talk to someone at the shop: Automotive shops are usually staffed with knowledgeable people who can help you find the best deals and advice on where to buy car parts. It doesn’t hurt to ask, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation!

Making the Most of Your Money

Finding affordable car parts doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With some research and strategic shopping, you can easily stretch your dollar and make sure your vehicle is always running in prime condition. But it’s important to remember that finding cheap car parts doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or performance. Do your due diligence when sourcing replacement parts and make sure that any car parts you purchase are certified, OEM approved, or come with a warranty. This will ensure that your vehicle is in safe hands, and you can rest assured knowing that all the parts installed are reliable and up to standard. Now, armed with this knowledge, it’s time for you to start stretching your dollar and finding great deals on car parts.

Recycling Old Auto Parts

The process of recycling old auto parts not only benefits the environment but also has financial rewards. Instead of discarding those junk car parts in your garage or sending them to landfill sites, you can take them to a Louisville auto scrapyard where they can be sorted, dismantled, and reused or recycled. Recycling old auto parts negates the need to manufacture new parts from scratch, which reduces the amount of energy consumed and carbon monoxide released into the atmosphere. It’s a win-win situation as you help the planet and earn some extra cash!

Do you have some old or used car parts that you would like to recycle for an instant cash payout? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell scrap car parts in Louisville, Kentucky. We pay cash for all scrap metal and automotive parts. If you are selling a catalytic converter, you will need proof of ownership.

The Common Causes of Catalytic Converter Failure

Posted on April 7, 2023 by gcsjunk

Catalytic converters are a critical component of any vehicle’s exhaust system, and they are essential for reducing harmful emissions. Unfortunately, these components can become damaged or worn out over time, resulting in increased costs for catalytic converter replacement and other repairs. Understanding the common causes of catalytic converter failure is important to help you avoid costly repairs down the road. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common reasons why your catalytic converter may need to be replaced or repaired. We’ll also cover some tips on how to prevent further damage and extend its life as long as possible.

Read on to learn more about what can cause a broken catalytic converter and the associated costs involved with replacing it!

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Reasons Why Cars Experience Catalytic Converter Failure

Catalytic converters are an important part of any car engine, helping to reduce harmful emissions from the exhaust. But these components can be costly and difficult to replace if they fail. That’s why it’s important for drivers to understand the common causes of catalytic converter failure in order to prevent them from happening in the first place. With proper maintenance and care, you can ensure that your car’s catalytic converter is functioning properly for years to come!

Here are some of the most common reasons cars experience catalytic converter failure:

Age: The age of your vehicle is one of the key factors when it comes to determining how often you need to replace or repair your catalytic converter. Generally, these components last around 10 years before needing to be replaced. If your car is older than this, it’s likely that it will require more frequent repairs and replacements as parts wear out over time.

Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensors: Malfunctioning oxygen sensors can lead to an inefficient combustion process in your engine and therefore cause higher levels of harmful emissions from exhaust gases. This can result in a damaged catalytic converter due to the increased heat and pressure created by the malfunctioning sensor.

Oil Sludge Buildup: When oil starts to accumulate inside the catalytic converter, it can clog up important passages and reduce its overall efficiency. This is caused by an accumulation of engine sludge, which forms when oil breaks down over time due to heat and pressure. If you regularly change your oil according to manufacturer recommendations, then this should help prevent sludge buildup in the catalytic converter.

Faulty Spark Plugs: Faulty spark plugs can create misfires or incomplete combustion processes, leading to higher levels of emissions being released from the exhaust system. This can damage or even destroy your catalytic converter if left unchecked for too long.

Additional Causes: In addition to these common causes, there are several other factors that could lead to a broken catalytic converter such as an exhaust leak, a blocked oxygen sensor, or a damaged fuel injector. When dealing with any of these issues, it’s important to get your car serviced as soon as possible to minimize the damage and costs associated with replacing or repairing the catalytic converter.

Catalytic Converter Replacement is Pricey

Replacing your catalytic converter can be quite expensive; however, there are some things you can do to reduce the costs involved. Shopping around for different quotes from local mechanics is one way you can save money on this type of repair. Additionally, many mechanic shops offer discounts for regular customers so make sure to ask about these when getting a quote. Lastly, if you have any warranties in place on your vehicle (such as through an extended warranty company), then check to see if the cost of catalytic converter replacement is covered.

Avoid Catalytic Converter Failure in the Future

By understanding the common causes of catalytic converter failure, you can take precautionary steps to help protect your vehicle and reduce the associated costs. By regularly changing your oil, replacing spark plugs, and getting your exhaust system serviced on a regular basis, you can help extend the life of your catalytic converter and keep repair costs down in the long run.

Do you have a broken catalytic converter that you’d like to sell for cash on the spot? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell scrap car parts in Louisville, Kentucky. We pay cash for all scrap metal and automotive parts. If you are selling a catalytic converter, you will need proof of ownership.

A Guide to Understanding the Insurance Claims Process for Totaled Cars

Posted on March 29, 2023 by gcsjunk

If you’ve been in a car accident recently, and your vehicle has been declared a total loss or “totaled”, it can be an overwhelming experience. You may have questions like: What is the insurance claims process? How do I get compensated for my totaled car? Do I need to file a claim with my insurer? Fortunately, understanding the insurance claims process for totaled cars doesn’t have to be complicated.

In this guide we will answer all of these questions and more so that you can navigate the process with ease. We will explain what it means to have a totaled car, how to determine if your vehicle is considered a total loss, how auto salvage works and what steps are involved in filing an insurance claim after totaling your vehicle.

By the end of this guide, you should feel confident about navigating through the insurance claims process for totaled cars. Let’s begin!

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How Insurance Carriers Define a Totaled Car

First and foremost, it’s important to understand what a totaled car is. A totaled car is also known as a total loss vehicle, which is a vehicle that has been involved in an accident and the cost of repairs exceed the actual cash value (ACV) of the car. The actual cash value is determined by looking at factors such as year, make, model, mileage, and condition of the vehicle prior to the accident. In most cases when a totaled car has been declared, your insurance company will deem it as a total loss and compensate you for its ACV minus any applicable deductions like policy deductibles.

Auto Repair Estimates

The first step in understanding the insurance claims process for totaled cars is determining if your vehicle qualifies as a total loss. This typically involves getting estimates from repair shops or auto body specialists. If the repair costs exceed the actual cash value, then the car is usually considered a total loss. Once this is established, you can move forward with filing an insurance claim and being compensated for your totaled vehicle.

Filing a Claim With Your Auto Insurer

Now we need to discuss how to file an insurance claim for your totaled car. To do this, contact your insurer and provide them with all the necessary paperwork including the ACV estimates, repair quotes and any photos of the accident. They will then work with you to process a claim so that you can get compensated for your totaled vehicle. Once everything is finalized and you have received payment from your insurer, you can move forward with purchasing a new or used vehicle as needed.

Scrapping a Totaled Car at an Auto Salvage Yard

Now that we have determined that your car is indeed a total loss, let’s talk about auto salvage. Auto salvage involves selling off any parts of a totaled vehicle that are still usable or recyclable and reusing them to repair other vehicles. This helps save time and money when repairing cars from accidents instead of having to buy new parts every time. Sometimes, Cash for Cars companies and junk car buyers in Louisville are willing to purchase entire vehicles or even parts for cash on the spot. Some auto salvage lots will even tow your junk car for free.

Be Sure to Contact Your Insurance Carrier to Confirm Policy Details

We hope this guide has been helpful in understanding the insurance claims process for totaled cars. Do note that every situation is different and there may be additional steps involved depending on where you live. If you have any questions about filing an insurance claim for a totaled car, don’t hesitate to reach out to your insurer for more information.

Are you interested in selling your totaled vehicle for a high amount of cash in the Louisville area? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to speak with a trusted Indianapolis junk car buyer for details on how to get started! We offer free junk car removal and accept all old or broken auto parts!

How Salvage Yards Calculate the Actual Cash Value of a Junk Car

Posted on February 7, 2023 by gcsjunk

Are you looking to sell your junk car? If so, it’s important to understand how salvage yards calculate the actual cash value (ACV) of a junk car. Junk cars can be worth anywhere from a few hundred dollars up to thousands of dollars depending on their condition and market value. Knowing how much your junk car is actually worth will help you get the best deal when selling it to a junkyard or private buyer.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss what factors determine the actual cash value of a scrap vehicle, plus provide tips for getting the most out of your junk car sale.

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Calculating Actual Cash Value (ACV)

One of the main factors that junk car buyers consider when determining the actual cash value is the year, make, and model of your vehicle. Depending on the age, condition, and popularity of your car, it could be worth more or less than other vehicles. Additionally, its current market value will also affect how much you can get for it. A vehicle that is in high demand will likely fetch a higher price than one that is less popular.

Another factor that many Louisville junk car buyers look at is the condition of your vehicle. If it’s still running and in good shape, you may be able to get more for it than if it’s not running or has major structural damage. The presence of any aftermarket features, such as a new transmission or upgraded stereo system, will also increase the actual cash value.

Finally, junk car buyers may also take into account any missing parts when calculating the actual cash value. Depending on the part, it could cost more to replace it than what’s offered by the buyer, so be sure to check what parts are missing before selling your junk car.

Consider the Various Factors That Impact ACV

The actual cash value of a junk car can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as its year, make and model, condition, current market value, and any aftermarket features or missing parts. Knowing how much your vehicle is worth will help you get the best possible deal when selling it to a junk car buyer in Louisville. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to maximize the value of your sale and get the most out of your junk car.

Are you on the hunt for an outstanding Kentucky auto salvage yard to compensate you generously for your unwanted car? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell your junk car for cash on the spot to a trusted Louisville junk car buyer! We offer free junk car removal in all surrounding counties.

Easy Guide to Jump Starting a Dead Car Battery

Posted on October 6, 2022 by gcsjunk

A car battery can die for a number of reasons. The most common cause is simple – age. Batteries have a natural lifespan, and after a few years they just stop being able to hold a charge. Other causes of battery death include extreme temperatures, loose or corroded connections, and electrical issues within the car itself.

Continue below to learn more about car battery care, including how to jump start a dead car battery using a set of jumper cables and a good Samaritan.

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Car Battery Maintenance

Despite what some people may think, it’s actually quite easy to prevent a battery from dying prematurely. The most important thing to do is to keep it clean. Dirty batteries are more likely to corrode, and corrosion can lead to all sorts of problems. If you live in an area with cold winters, make sure to keep your battery warm – either by storing it in a garage or by using a battery blanket. And finally, if you suspect that your car has any electrical issues, get them fixed as soon as possible. Ignoring these issues will only make them worse, and they could eventually lead to your battery dying.

It’s important to maintain your car battery to extend its lifespan and keep it working properly. Here are a few tips on how to do so:

▶ Keep it clean – free of dirt, corrosion, and other debris.

▶ Check the water level regularly and top it off with distilled water if necessary.

▶ Inspect the terminals and connections to make sure they’re tight and free of corrosion.

▶ Have the battery tested regularly to check its performance and identify any potential issues.

▶ If your battery is more than 3 years old, consider replacing it.

Following these tips will help you keep your car battery in good condition and prevent any problems down the road.

How to Jump Start a Dead Battery

A car battery can die suddenly and without warning. If you’re lucky, it will happen when you’re at home or work and you can call a friend or tow truck to help. But if it happens when you’re out and about, you’ll need to know how to jump start your car battery. It’s actually not that difficult, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your car.

Here’s What You’ll Need:

■ Jumper cables
■ Another car with a working battery
■ A set of instructions

Here’s How To Do It:

1. Park the working car next to the car with the dead battery, making sure that the two batteries are not touching.

2. Turn off all lights and accessories in both cars.

3. Connect one end of the positive (red) jumper cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery.

4. Connect the other end of the positive jumper cable to the positive terminal of the working battery.

5. Connect one end of the negative (black) jumper cable to the negative terminal of the working battery.

6. Connect the other end of the negative jumper cable to a metal part of the car with the dead battery. This helps to ground the circuit and prevents sparks.

7. Start the working car and let it run for a few minutes.

8. Try to start the car with the dead battery. If it doesn’t start, check the cables to make sure they’re all connected properly and try again.

9. Once the car with the dead battery is running, disconnect the jumper cables in the reverse order that you connected them.

Congratulations! Your battery should be charged up again!

Did your car battery die for good this time? If so, sell it for cash on the spot, then place that profit towards a new car battery! Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell a junk car parts in Louisville, Kentucky for an instant cash payout. We provide FREE junk car removal!

Should I Have My Car Suspension Checked Out?

Posted on September 26, 2022 by gcsjunk

Does your car seem more like a carnival ride when you drive? Is it bouncing and bumping to every little atypical terrain below your feet? Or perhaps it has gotten a bit squeaky? If you have your car’s suspension system at the front of your mind, there is likely a reason, and that reason is that it needs some attention.

Continue below to learn some common signs of car suspension trouble, plus when you should make the decision to have yours inspected or serviced.

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Signs of Car Suspension Failure

The top three signs that suggest your automotive suspension system is experiencing some decline or defects include sagging on one end of the vehicle, pulling to the side, and springy riding. These signs might appear singularly, in combinations, or all at once.

Sagging on One End

One of the most common signs of a suspension problem in any vehicle, whether car truck, is visible. Sagging on one in two. If the front and or the rear and of your car is lower than the other by a significant measure, it could mean that your suspension system has a damaged spring or a blown shock. Both of these damages would require professional automotive repair and parts replacement.

Pulling During Turns

If your vehicle is drifting or pulling to one side as you drive or turn, your suspension system might be experiencing internal mechanical issues. Some of the most common suspension problems that cause cars to pull to one side or drift include damaged tie rods, sticky brake calipers, and damaged steering racks.

Bouncy Riding

When you drive your vehicle, does it seem overly bouncy and springy? Excessive bounciness while driving is a common indication of a car suspension problem. The issue is always due to worn out struts and shocks. If the bouncing is happening at the front end of into your vehicle, it is the struts. If it is happening at the rear end of the vehicle, it is the shocks.

Consequences of Driving With a Damaged Suspension System

If you continue to drive your car with a damaged suspension system, you risk causing severe and irreversible damages that might total your vehicle. The good news in this case would be that you can scrap your car at a local Louisville auto salvage yard for cash on the spot. Just be sure to choose certified and experienced junk car buyers in Kentucky to ensure you get the full scrap value for your junk car.

Would you like to skip the hassle of searching for reputable auto scrappers in Kentucky and go straight to the leading salvage yard in Louisville? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell your car for cash on the spot to a trusted Louisville junk car buyer! We offer free junk car removal in all surrounding counties.

Check These 6 Automotive Fluid Levels in Your Car Right Now

Posted on August 22, 2022 by gcsjunk

Part of being a safe driver is taking good care of your car. A car that is well-maintained and properly serviced will perform better, and therefore, keep you and your passengers safer. An important element of best practice car care is automotive fluid management. Your vehicle, no matter which make or model, requires at least 6 essential fluids for optimal performance and safety. These fluids are so important that you should get up right now and check your vehicle’s levels!

Continue below to learn which automotive fluids are the most essential and should be checked on a routine basis.

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6 Essential Automotive Fluids to Check Regularly

The 6 most important automotive fluids that you should check on a weekly and monthly basis include motor oil, radiator fluid (coolant/anti-freeze), transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. In some cases, for vehicles that apply, you will need to address differential fluid levels and battery fluid levels too.

Motor Oil

Also known as engine oil, this automotive fluid might arguably be the most important. Without it, your car simply will not run. Checking your motor oil levels easy and refilling the oil in your car is even easier. You will need to refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating the oil dipstick under the hood of your car. It should be clearly labeled and easy to find. This is the rod that will show you where your motor oil levels are at.

The lower down the rod the motor oil residue is, the less you have. Simply pull it out, wipe it with a cloth, then insert it back in. Then pull it out for inspection. You want the dipstick to be at least halfway covered in oil when you pull it back out. You should have your oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or whenever your manual recommends.

Coolant

Your vehicle’s engine gets hot; so hot, that it can damage the internal components and mechanism within the motor and other areas of the vehicle. To regulate engine temperatures, your car relies on radiator fluid, also known as coolant or antifreeze. If your car engine overheats, it is likely due to a low level of coolant. Fortunately, checking and refilling your radiator fluid is just as easy as checking your oil. Simply refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating and refiling your coolant reservoir.

Transmission Fluid

Automatic cars use transmission fluid, which basically works as an internal lubricant to keep the gears shifting smoothly. Without proper transmission fluid levels, your car will begin to experience stress within the transmission system. You might notice slowed or struggling acceleration, shaking, or loud idling.

Checking your transmission fluid levels is the same as checking your oil, expect you do it while the car is running. There should be another dipstick somewhere under the hood of your car. Refer to your owners’ manual for specific instructions unique to your make and model. It is recommended to change your transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, or every 3 years, whichever comes first.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid is probably the second most important automotive fluid because it supports the ability to stop your car from driving. Having low brake fluid levels will result in delayed braking, brake squealing, and all sorts of other poor brake performance issues. To check brake fluid levels, be sure your engine is off and completely cool. Refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating the brake fluid reservoir. After today, check your brake fluid once per year.

Power Steering Fluid

Most cars require power steering fluid. If you notice that your steering wheel is getting harder to control, you could be low on fluid. Refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating the power steering reservoir, which is usually on the passenger side of the engine. Be sure the engine is off and cold before checking your fluid levels. Your owners’ manual may recommend differently, but the general rule of thumb for changing out power steering fluid is once every 2 to 3 years.

Windshield Wiper Fluid

Most often forgotten or overlooked, windshield wiper fluid is an essential part of driver and passenger safety. This is a fluid anyone can re-fill themselves, as needed. Simply by this well-known blue solution at a gas station or auto parts store. Refill as needed.

Has your car crossed into junk car territory and no longer stands as an investment-worthy asset? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell a junk car in Louisville, Kentucky for an instant cash payout. We provide free junk car removal!

Are There Precious Metals in Junk Cars?

Posted on August 9, 2022 by gcsjunk

You can expect to find steel, iron, and even copper in the entirety of a vehicle. But would you expect to find precious metals like gold or silver? Well, you should! All motorized commodities contain some degree of precious metal their design. Continue below to learn which precious metals are more likely to be included in the manufacturing of a vehicle, plus how you can make the most money by selling your junk car in Louisville, Kentucky.

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Junk Car Precious Metals

The most common precious metals in cars are platinum, palladium, gold, and sometimes silver. The quantity and type of precious metal in your junk car will depend on several factors, namely the make and model, but also the current condition.

Silver

Silver can be found in car batteries and circuit boards. Silver-oxide batteries are used in military fleet vehicles, so it is unlikely that your junk car has precious metal in its battery. As for electronic circuit boards, newer model vehicles contain traces of silver, which can be recycled and repurposed into new commodities.

Gold

As just mentioned, automotive computers operate on electronic circuit boards that contain silver, but these circuit boards also contain gold-plated fingers. Newer model vehicles that have onboard computerized systems like GPS, navigation, stereo, Bluetooth, and even engine modules will contain these gold-plated components. Gold can also be found in car airbags, although only in trace amounts.

Platinum

Platinum isn’t just for jewelry. It is very likely that your personal vehicle contains platinum. All cars and trucks manufactured within the last three decades have a catalytic converter, which is an automotive part that filters toxic emissions generated by burning fuel. Within a catalytic converter is the catalyst, which is typically lined with platinum.

Palladium

Palladium is a metal you might’ve seen in a recent superhero movie or read in your favorite comic books. That is because palladium is a rare-occurring, exotic metal that is high in economic value, making it perfect for fantasy story lines. But the truth is, palladium is also used in the manufacturing of common automotive parts like catalytic converters. Palladium alloy made with platinum and rhodium is often used as a catalyst lining, serving as cost-effective alternative to former manufacturing methods for catalytic converters.

Are you interested in selling your junk vehicle for a high amount of cash in the Louisville area? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to speak with a trusted Indianapolis junk car buyer for details on how to get started! We offer free junk car removal and accept all old or broken auto parts!

Can an Electric Car Be Recycled for its Copper?

Posted on June 21, 2022 by gcsjunk

Auto recycling is one of the most important planet-preserving enterprises of today, and that applies worldwide. So much so, in fact, that modern automakers are designing their models with a more Eco-conscious agenda. Electric vehicles are the perfect example!

Can electric cars be recycled for their copper and other valuable metals once they are junked or totaled? Well, the answer is a resounding YES! Continue below to learn which valuable metals are found inside electric cars, making them the perfect non-motorized asset to recycle!

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Is There a Lot of Copper in Electric Vehicles?

There are three common types of electric vehicles humming about on the roads today: battery electric vehicles (BEV), plug-in electric hybrid vehicles (PHEV), and standard hybrid electric vehicles (HEV). Regardless of type, all electric vehicles are made with all sorts of metal and metal components, including aluminum, bauxite, lithium, cobalt, and even traces of precious metals like gold and silver. But being as though they are powered by electricity, they tend to have a good quantity of metal with good conductivity and ductileness, like copper.

How much copper? Well, a lot.

Battery electric vehicles (BEV) are powered by a battery-powered electric motor. They contain an average of 183 pounds of copper. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) primarily use an electric motor but have fuel engines and gasoline reserves for backup after the battery runs out of charge. They must be plugged in to recharge, and contain an average of 132 pounds of copper. Standard hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) combine the power of fuel with an electric motor, and they contain the lowest average copper composition, coming in at 85 pounds.

How do these copper values compare to the average American-made vehicle? Well, the average American car contains around 55 pounds of copper wiring and copper components and electric cars have at least three times as much! Although most of the copper content found in electric cars comes from the rotors, systems like circuit boards, batteries, and electric motors can also contain copper.

How to Recycle an Electric Car

Although electric cars are just getting started in the auto manufacturing industry, accidents and breakdowns happen. If you have an electric vehicle that wrecked or totaled, consider selling it to a local Louisville auto salvage yard. Reputable junkyards will even pay you the scrap value in cash! By recycling a junked or totaled electric car, you can support its greener initiative and help the environment in whole!

Do you need to scrap an electric vehicle? What about a standard, gas or diesel powered vehicle? Contact GC’s Junk Cars at 502-804-5605 to sell your wrecked electric car in Louisville, Kentucky for cash on the spot! We also provide free junk car removal!