When it comes to trash that is better off recycled, cars are probably not the first thing that comes to mind. But car recycling is a significant source of recovered metals—and a source of income for owners turning in totaled cars for cash. Here are some of the most common materials recovered during this process.

5 Common Materials for Car Recycling

1. Aluminum

While it makes up a relatively small proportion of your car’s weight, aluminum still comprises the biggest portion of a recycled car’s price tag. This is because of the high value per weight of aluminum components like wheels, radiators, doors, and hoods.

2. Copper

Another small component with a high price point, copper can be found in your car’s wiring, safety system, and electronic accessories. The radiator is also sometimes made of copper.

3. Steel

The bulk of your car is made of steel, making this the most common type of metal salvage from car recycling. Steel from your car’s body can be crushed and melted down into new products for much less than the cost of refining raw materials.

4. Lead

Weights used to balance your wheels are made of recyclable lead, but the biggest piece of lead in your car is probably the battery. Battery recycling is particularly important because discarded batteries are incredibly toxic and destructive.

5. Platinum & Palladium

Platinum and palladium are both extremely rare metals with uses in industry, making them quite valuable. You might not expect to find these metals in your car, but in fact, they’re found in the catalytic converter.

When you sell your car for recycling, you’re helping to return some very useful resources to circulation. The steel, lead, copper, aluminum, platinum, and palladium recovered from your car reduce the need to mine more of these materials—and they also put some worthwhile cash in your wallet.

Roadrunner Recycling in San Marcos, TX, is always in the market for used cars. Depending on the condition of your vehicle, you could earn up to $10,000 for it. Not only are they a major car recycling center and salvage yard, but they also offer used cars in good condition for sale. To learn more, get in touch online or at (512) 353-4511.