We’ve all seen them – cars that are sitting on blocks in a driveway, cars that have been the victim of extensive collision damage or good old daily drivers that finally gave up the ghost. But, when is a car officially “used”-and officially “junk”? For many Atlanta drivers, this distinction is blurred, and something potentially worth thousands of dollars sits idly taking up space. At Atlanta Auto Recycle we think that knowledge is power. Understanding what makes your car a junk vehicle is the first step in making a smart decision that will be profitable for you.
Let’s break down the criteria and see how you can make that eyesore into cash.
Debunking Common Myths About Junk Cars
First, though, there are some misconceptions that are widespread to clear up. A vehicle isn’t necessarily junk just because it’s old or has high mileage. A classic car that is in good shape or a nice, well maintained high mileage sedan can still be worth a lot. Similarly, minor damage to the body such as dents or a scratched bumper don’t get a car qualified for the junk yard if it runs safely.
Instead the “junk” label is usually acquired when the cost of repair and/or restoration far exceeds the market value of the car, or when the car can no longer fulfill its primary purpose of safe and reliable transportation.
Important Factors that Make a Car Considered Junk
So, what are the physical signs? While there is no need to have an official declaration of insurance “total loss,” several conditions clearly suggest a status in the junk.
Catastrophic Mechanical Failure: This is the most common reason and cause. When the repairs cost more than the car is worth it’s a prime candidate. Think seized engines, shattered transmissions or unrepairable electrical system failures.
Severe Accident or Structural Damage: Severe damage due to a collision, particularly to the frame or unibody, occurs in which case the repair or replacement of the car is often technically possible but economically senseless. If the airbags deployed then it’s a good sign.
Failed Emissions or Safety Inspection: In the Atlanta metro area a car that is unable to pass the necessary emissions test because of a prohibitively expensive repair is a common candidate for junk cars.
Overwhelming Rust or Flood Damage: Rust that compromises structure and/or a flood-damaged vehicle with destroyed electronics and rust are both a safety hazard as well as an economic write off.
The “Money Pit” Syndrome: If you’re constantly fixing one major problem after the next, throwing thousands into a vehicle and there is no end in sight, then it’s time for you to recycle it.
Non-Running and Non-Starting: A car that hasn’t moved under its own power for months and often has some unknown or ignored problem has moved from transportation to a parts and scrap source.
If you have been reluctant to take the car out on the Atlanta highways or a trusted mechanic has recommended that you avoid a major repair, chances are your car qualifies.
The Hidden Value Driven in Your Junk Vehicle?
Many people are surprised to learn that there is still a lot of worth in a “junk” car. This value is taken from two main sources:
Recyclable Raw Materials Your car is composed of steel, aluminum, copper and other metals that are in continual global demand. A licensed recycler such as Atlanta Auto Recycle is responsible for recycling these materials responsibly and putting them into new uses.
Salvageable Parts: Even a non running car can have valuable parts. Catalytic converters, alternators, starters, body panels and electronic modules are just a few of the parts that can be tested, certified and sold to other car owners, offering affordable repair options while giving other cars new life.
Choosing a professional recycler means that you will be paid for the full value of your car rather than just the weight of the car in terms of scrap metal.
Why it is Important to Select the Right Recycler?
Selling your junk car does not mean the fastest deal, it means the most responsible, secure deal. Atlanta Auto Recycle offers a hassle-free process that will ensure you are both safe and the environment is safe.
We provide free no-obligation quotes currently based on an authentic assessment of your car’s make and model, and also its condition.
We offer free towing with our own fleet and remove your vehicle from your property at a time that is convenient to you.
You paid on the spot with cash or check when we are picking up the car – no waiting, no hidden fees.
We take care of all the Georgia DMV paperwork including the title transfer that provides you with a formal release of liability that you’re no longer liable for the vehicle.
Ready to know what your qualifying junk vehicle will be worth? Don’t let it take up space and drain the peace of your mind anytime longer.
Contact Atlanta Auto Recycle now for your immediate and free quote as well as to schedule your free pickup. Our local team is ready to be able to turn your junk car into money, responsibly and efficiently.