Yes, you can certainly get money for old car starters by selling them as scrap metal. These auto parts, along with alternators, contain valuable metals that make them desirable to scrap metal recycling facilities.
The Value of Old Car Starters
Old car starters are perfect candidates for scrapping due to their significant metal content. They are relatively easy to acquire for individuals who frequently work with vehicles or have access to old cars, such as mechanics or auto dismantlers. Selling these components for scrap is a practical way to earn money from otherwise discarded parts.
Expected Earnings from Scrap Starters
When you sell car starters for scrap, the price you receive is typically based on their weight. You can almost always expect to get around 13 cents per pound for car starters and alternators. It's important to note that while this is a common rate, local prices can vary depending on the specific scrap yard and current market conditions for metals. Despite these variations, scrapping old starters remains a reliable source of income for many.
Who Can Benefit?
Individuals and businesses that frequently handle old vehicles are in an excellent position to collect and profit from old starters. This includes:
- Auto Mechanics: Who replace starters regularly.
- Salvage Yards: That dismantle cars for parts.
- Car Enthusiasts: Who work on multiple vehicles.
- Individuals: With old or non-running cars on their property.
How to Sell Old Starters for Scrap
Selling your old starters for scrap is a straightforward process. Here are some practical steps to maximize your earnings:
- Collect in Bulk: Accumulate several starters before heading to a scrap yard. Selling a larger quantity can make the trip more worthwhile.
- Locate a Local Scrap Yard: Use online search engines or local directories to find scrap metal recycling facilities in your area.
- Check Current Prices: Before you go, it's a good idea to call ahead and inquire about their current prices for starters or "electric motors" (which is often how starters and alternators are categorized).
- Prepare Your Parts: While not always necessary, some might recommend removing any excess plastic or non-metal components if it significantly reduces the weight of non-metal material, though for starters, they are largely metal.
Why Recycle Car Parts?
Recycling old car parts like starters not only puts money in your pocket but also contributes to environmental sustainability. It helps conserve natural resources by reducing the need to mine new raw materials and lowers energy consumption associated with manufacturing new products from scratch. For more general information on recycling various materials, you can explore resources like Earth911's recycling guides.
