Selling a tired or accident‑damaged vehicle doesn’t always mean taking the first lowball scrap quote you’re offered.
Many unwanted cars still contain valuable components that can be sold for more than the vehicle’s scrap value.
This guide explains how to decide whether to part your car out, which bits are worth the most, and the legal and practical steps involved if you choose to dismantle it yourself.
We’ve focussed on the requirements of New South Wales (NSW) because we, Metro Car Removal, operate in Sydney and across NSW, but most of the advice applies nationally.
Should I Sell My Car For Parts?
Parting out a vehicle only pays off when the car still has high-value, high-demand components. Typically, it’s worth considering if:
• The engine and transmission are in good condition
• The car has low kilometres
• It’s a popular, rare or enthusiast model
• The car has cosmetic rather than mechanical damage
Before taking anything apart, always compare it to a standard scrap quote.
If the scrap value is close to or higher than what you’d get for the major parts, selling the whole car through a licensed cash for cars service like Metro Car Removal may be the smarter option.
When Wrecking Your Own Car Isn’t Worth It
Dismantling a car can take weeks. You need space, tools, mechanical skill and somewhere to store parts while you wait for buyers. If:
• you’re short on time
• don’t have a safe workspace
• your car is very old or unpopular
• or you simply can’t be bothered with tyre-kickers
…then selling the whole car is usually the smarter, faster option. Metro Car Removal offers same-day pickup and payment across NSW, which removes the entire hassle.
Which Car Parts Are Worth the Most?
Some components consistently sell well because they are expensive to replace new.
High-value parts overview
| Component | Condition to Sell | Typical Value (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Low km, running well | $800–$2,500+ |
| Automatic transmission | Working, not slipping | $500–$1,500 |
| Catalytic converter | Original, intact | $150–$800+ |
| Alloy wheels (with tyres) | Good tread, minimal rash | $300–$1,000 |
| Headlights | Clear, no cracks | $100–$400 |
| Alternator / starter motor | Tested | $50–$150 |
| Doors | Straight, clean paint | $100–$350 |
Rare or classic vehicles can also fetch strong prices for interior trims, badges, cluster modules and hard-to-find panels.
How to Dismantle a Car Safely
Set up your workspace
You’ll need:
• A quality socket/spanner set
• Screwdrivers and pliers
• A jack and axle stands (never work under a car without them)
• An engine hoist if removing the engine or gearbox
• PPE such as gloves and eye protection
Work on a flat surface with plenty of room to store removed parts.
Remove parts in a logical order
- Interior first
Seats, trim, centre console, dashboard, stereo and electronics. - Exterior panels
Doors, bonnet, boot lid, bumpers and mirrors. - Engine bay
Radiator, alternator, starter, compressor, hoses and wiring. - Major components last
Engine and gearbox.
Drain and dispose of fluids properly
All fluids must be drained into safe containers:
• Engine oil
• Coolant
• Brake fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Fuel
These must be taken to an authorised disposal facility to comply with NSW environmental laws.
Label everything
Use tape and permanent marker to label:
• Part name
• Vehicle make/model
• Condition notes
This makes selling far easier and prevents mix-ups.
Know the Legal Requirements in NSW
Proof of ownership
Buyers may ask for:
• Registration papers
• Proof of identity
• A simple bill of sale
This protects both sides and prevents stolen parts from circulating.
Write-off rules
If your car has been officially written off:
• Statutory write-offs can never be repaired or registered again.
• Repairable write-offs can technically go back on the road, but only after strict inspections.
Statutory write-offs are generally only suitable for scrapping or parting out.
Cancelling the registration
Once the car is stripped:
- Take the number plates to a Service NSW centre.
- Bring your licence and rego papers.
- Apply for a refund of unused rego and CTP.
- Notify Transport for NSW that the vehicle has been disposed of.
When selling your whole car to Metro Car Removal, we can guide you through this process.
Environmental responsibilities
Licensed wreckers recycle up to 90% of a vehicle. They handle fluids, batteries and metals safely, preventing contamination. If you dismantle the car yourself, you take on those obligations. If that sounds like too much, selling the full vehicle to a licensed wrecker is the easiest route.
Where to Sell Car Parts
Online
The most common platforms:
• Facebook Marketplace
• Gumtree
• eBay
You’ll need:
• Clear photos
• Part numbers
• Accurate descriptions
• Quick responses to messages
This method gets the highest price but requires the most effort.
Local businesses
You can also approach:
• Mechanics
• Auto parts shops
• Wreckers
The price may be slightly lower, but the process is fast and straightforward.
A Quick, Hassle-Free Alternative
If the process of dismantling, storing parts and dealing with multiple buyers feels overwhelming, Metro Car Removal can take the entire car off your hands today. We offer:
• Fast quotes
• Free towing across Sydney
• Cash on pickup
• Environmentally responsible recycling
Whether you choose to part the car out or get rid of it in one go, knowing the value of your vehicle and the rules around disposal helps you make the best choice.
Metro Car Removal
- Free Towing
No need for registration, roadworthy certificates, or running condition, we tow for free from anywhere in Sydney. - Instant Cash Offer
We evaluate your vehicle’s make, model, and condition and present a top‑dollar quote on the spot. - Hassle‑Free Paperwork
We handle ownership transfer and paperwork, so you don’t have to.