What Auto Parts You Can (And Can’t) Sell

If you’re wondering, “How can I sell my car fast?” you may be contemplating selling your vehicle for parts. After all, you may be able to get even more money for your vehicle, as opposed to selling it fully intact, which will allow you to afford the vehicle you’ve always dreamed of owning. McCluskey Automotive has been helping drivers find the right cars for years, and throughout our time in the business, we have learned a few things about what it takes to sell your car for parts. Remember, not everything on your vehicle can be sold, and selling something you shouldn’t can get you into trouble. So, when you’re looking to make the most out of your car’s parts, be aware of which parts you can sell and which shouldn’t be sold, no matter what.

What Auto Parts Can Be Sold?

There are many parts on your vehicle, from what’s under the hood to cosmetic features on the exterior, and much of it can be sold as long as it’s in quality condition. Take a look at some of the most commonly sold auto parts that fetch top dollar.

The Engine

The engine is a big money maker in your vehicle, and choosing to sell this component may warrant a nice payout. It’s important to note that when selling your engine, you’ll want to ensure that you’ve taken care of it properly. It’s a good idea to get it inspected, especially if you want to get more money for it, so keeping up with regular maintenance, like oil changes, is crucial. Chances are if you’re selling your engine, your buyers will be well-versed in mechanics, so ensuring that it’s in tip-top shape is highly advised.

Rims and Tires

These days, cosmetic features are highly sought after, especially a nice set of rims. Rims tend to go for extremely high prices at specialty retailers, which means that many buyers will be exploring other options to find a better price. The same goes for tires, but the important thing to note here is that they must be in good condition and not worn beyond recognition. People are searching for tire deals to save money, but they also want to be safe, and selling bald tires can put others in jeopardy.

The Transmission

It can be a crushing blow when drivers are told they need a new transmission. Not only is the transmission a crucial element of any vehicle, but it can also be very pricey. Since transmissions are so expensive, it prompts many drivers to shop around for a good deal. Like the engine, it’s a good idea to ensure that it’s in peak condition so that you’re able to get top dollar for it. This is a big component of your vehicle and a very valuable one at that, which is why regular maintenance will ensure that your transmission remains in good shape.

Mirrors, Headlights, and Taillights

Although these parts don’t come close to fetching the high prices that engines and transmissions do, they’re still great parts to sell. Not only are they easy to remove (with the proper tools), but they can also be shipped, so if you’re dealing with a buyer who is out of town, you can get these parts to them successfully and easily. Keep in mind that LED headlights, taillights, and adaptive headlights will bring in more money. These look sleeker and more modern and provide enhanced visibility, especially during foggy weather and nighttime driving.

Radio and Speakers

Drivers love staying entertained during their travels, which is why the audio system plays such an important role on today’s roadways. These parts are easy to sell since they are so versatile. Unlike the engine, which can only work in a few select vehicles, the radio and speakers can be outfitted to virtually any vehicle, old or new. Plus, with brand-new options going for high prices, many buyers gravitate toward used radios and speakers to take advantage of increased affordability. Plus, you’re able to sell these online, just like headlamps and mirrors, which makes it easy to make a profit, but keep in mind they must be in working order, and if they aren’t, you must disclose this in the description.

The Alternator

The alternator is another crucial vehicle element that frequently succumbs to breakdowns. It plays a vital role in your vehicle’s operation, which can cause more wear, thus resulting in a demand for quality alternators on the market. Like anything you’re selling, ensuring that it’s in good condition will allow you to fetch a higher price for it.

What Auto Parts Shouldn’t Be Sold?

It can be easy to think that any part of your vehicle has a price; however, we advise you to tread carefully. Some parts should never be sold to others, regardless of any disclaimers you provide. Keep the following in mind if you’re wondering whether or not you should sell a certain part.

Worn Out Tires

Tires act as your contact with the road; when they don’t have enough tread on them, it can cause serious problems. From blow-outs to accidents, worn tires can wreak havoc on your travels, which means that if you’re looking to sell your car’s tires, they must be in favorable condition. Maintaining the integrity of your tires is made easier by staying on top of proper maintenance, regularly rotating them, and getting them checked by professionals. Replacing them when needed will allow them to continue to do their job of keeping you and those traveling around you safe on the road. Selling worn out tires to someone puts them at risk, so avoid this at all costs.

Broken Parts

Not many people want to put money into something that doesn’t work unless they like to tinker with things as a hobby. That being said, selling broken parts to someone ends up costing them more money, as they’ll need to find someone to fix them. It may also get you into trouble, especially if you’re selling online, as this can potentially scar your reputation as an online seller. Bad reviews, returns, and even legal issues may arise if you fail to mention a part you’re selling is damaged.

A Damaged Engine

As we mentioned earlier, the engine has a big payout, but damaged engines don’t fetch the same prices as quality engines. Unless you’re selling to a mechanic who will end up using it for parts or someone skilled at fixing engines, selling a big component like this is not recommended, especially if it’s not disclosed that there is damage.

The Quality of the Part Is Key

At the end of the day, it all comes down to transparency and quality. Not many people want to buy parts that aren’t in good condition, even if they’re saving money on them. This is why you want to be sure to take care of your car and all its parts so that if you want to sell it part by part, you’re going about it right away. Selling your car for parts has the potential to be extremely profitable, but only if you’re selling top-quality parts that will allow others to travel safely and efficiently. So, when it’s time to sell your car fast, be sure to keep this all in mind to ensure the best experience possible for both buyer and seller.