Whether you’re clearing space, chasing extra cash for your old car, or just curious what’s under the bonnet, knowing what car parts have the most scrap value could mean the difference between a few bucks and a proper payout.
Got a busted-up Corolla sitting idle in the driveway? Maybe it’s full of old takeaway containers, half-flat tyres, and the occasional possum? Trust us, you’re not the only one.
But here’s the kicker: that scrap vehicle might be worth more than you think. Especially if it’s got the right bits still attached. One Man’s Scrap, Another’s Gold
Scrapping a car isn’t just about dumping a rust bucket and waving goodbye. You’re sitting on a pile of valuable components — if you know where to look. We’re talking precious metals, valuable materials, and high-demand items that fetch decent coin thanks to market demand and the ever-changing scrap market. Around Melbourne, we see heaps of these forgotten clunkers — and at Old Cars Removed in Melbourne, we’ve hauled away more backyard bombs than you can poke a stick at.
We’ve been around the traps long enough to know which parts make a difference. Whether it’s the copper wiring, cat converter or just solid steel wheels, this is your ultimate guide to finding valuable scrap in old cars.
Catalytic Converters
Let’s start with the big-ticket items — catalytic converters. Or as some cheeky blokes call them, “cat converters” or “exhaust gold bars.”
Packed with platinum, rhodium, and palladium, catalytic converters are one of the most valuable components in scrap vehicles. With skyrocketing demand for scrap metal and environmental regulations tightening, scrap car dealers pay a premium — especially for converters from hybrid and electric vehicles.
- Average value in Australia: $150–$800+
- Hot targets for theft: Yep, catalytic converter theft is a thing. Some models like Priuses are in high demand.
One time in Thomastown, we picked up an old hybrid with a brand-new catalytic converter. The converter alone paid for the entire car removal — plus a slab.
If you’re scrapping your car, always ask: Is the cat still there? It can make or break your payout.
Copper Wiring
Copper’s not just good for plumbing and backup power systems — it’s a high-demand metal in the auto recycling Melbourne industry. The copper content in cars often gets overlooked, but it’s found in electrical components like:
- Starter motors
- Alternators
- Infotainment systems
- Air conditioning units
- Wiring harnesses
- Electronic devices and sensors
With copper scrap prices hovering around $5–$10 per kilo, these individual components can add up fast.
| Copper Source | Avg. Weight | Scrap Value Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Copper wire (vehicle-wide) | 20kg+ | $100–$200+ |
| Copper windings (motor parts) | 5–10kg | $25–$100+ |
Copper grade matters, so intact windings fetch more. And if it’s corrosion-resistant or high-quality copper core, even better.
Alloy & Steel Wheels
Rolling around on alloy wheels or even basic steel wheels? Don’t bin ‘em.
- Aluminium alloy wheels (aluminum rims) can fetch $3–$5/kg
- Steel wheels bring in slightly less, but are still valuable depending on the metal content
A full set of wheels in decent condition might earn you $50–$100+, depending on the weight and scrap metal prices.
Alloy wheels from luxury models? Even better. Auto recyclers and auto parts recycling businesses love a good set of shiny alloys.
Batteries
Batteries aren’t just heavy bricks. Traditional combustion engine batteries (lead-acid batteries) are full of lead — and lead is valuable.
- Value per battery: $5–$15
- Can also power homes: Recyclers use them in backup power or storage systems
Engine Blocks and Transmissions
Got a complete engine sitting in the car? That’s not dead weight — that’s dollar weight.
- Complete engines can fetch $200–$1,000 depending on resale demand
- Scrap value only? Still valuable due to high metal content (iron, aluminium, stainless steel)
Pro tip: Rebuilding engines for the second-hand market is hot in the current economic conditions.
Air Conditioning Units and Condensers
Often overlooked, but car A/C units are chockers of:
- Aluminium
- Copper tubing
- Electrical systems
Expect $10–$30 per unit, depending on scrap metal demand.
Infotainment and Electronic Components
Modern vehicles come loaded with infotainment units, audio components, navigation screens, and complex electronics. While the recycling process is trickier, electronic systems still hold value thanks to their precious metal content.
Exhaust Systems
If the catalytic converter’s gone walkabout, don’t stress — exhaust systems still contain stainless steel and iron alloys. While the average scrap value isn’t massive, it adds weight — and weight matters at the scrap yard.
Metal Frames and Sheet Metal
From metal frames to sheet metal, the car’s body alone brings value.
- Scrap steel prices in Australia (2025): ~$0.10–$0.20/kg
- A mid-size sedan can yield: 1,000 kg+ of raw materials
What’s Worthless
Let’s not waste your time — some components just aren’t worth pulling:
- Spark plugs — unless new or rare
- Carpet materials — zero scrap value
- Leather seats — unless in demand (luxury models only)
- Motor oil and engine oil — classified as waste
- Automobile glass — only worth recycling, not resale
- Plastic bumpers — low value due to recycling complexity
- Entertainment systems from old models — obsolete tech
The Scrap Price Cheat Sheet
Here’s the cold truth: scrap car prices swing with market prices, metal demand, and car condition.
| Factor | Impact on Value |
|---|---|
| Catalytic converters present? | +$150–$800 |
| Alloy vs steel wheels | +$30–$100 (Alloy), +$10–$40 (Steel) |
| Weight of vehicle | More weight = higher scrap payout |
| Engine/transmission intact | Higher payout from an auto salvage yard |
| Are electronic components working? | High resale potential if in demand |
| Condition matters | Cleaner cars can be resold (more $) |
Want to know Current Scrap Metal Prices? Just ask — we track them weekly so our quotes stay fair and sharp.
FAQ
What are the most valuable parts in a car for scrap?
Catalytic converters, copper wiring, alloy wheels, complete engines, and electronic systems top the list.
Is it better to sell a car whole or in parts?
Depends. If you’ve got time, skills, and buyer access — parting out may pay more. Otherwise, full vehicle removal is faster and often pays nearly as well.
Are electric vehicles worth more for scrap?
Sometimes. EVs have newer energy storage systems and higher copper content, but often lack catalytic converters.
Can I scrap a car without removing the battery?
Yes, but the battery adds value. Lead-acid and EV batteries are recyclable and sought after.
How do I find out the current scrap prices in Melbourne?
Check with trusted auto recyclers, scrap yards, or use a scrap value calculator. Or easier — send us the car details and we’ll quote you fair based on current scrap prices.
