Selling your junk car is pretty straightforward—just take it to a reputable salvage yard and get cash in return. However, some people are tempted to do more than that, thinking they can get more if they take their vehicles apart. Here’s what you shouldn’t do when planning to dispose of your junker.

4 Mistakes to Avoid Making When Selling a Junk Car

1. Pulling the Parts

Some salvage yards only accept whole junk cars, turning down pulled auto parts for sale. Moreover, stripping your vehicle is a challenging, time-consuming undertaking. It can take days, and even months, to fully disassemble a vehicle, especially if you’re unfamiliar with its inner workings. Such activity will also yield waste—oil, coolant, and other fluids—that must be disposed of safely.  

2. Taking the Gas Out

If your junk car has remaining gas, leave it there. Siphoning gas is hazardous and can lead to property damage and serious injuries. Gasoline and diesel contain toxic ingredients that can cause a gamut of health risks—from breathing difficulties and skin irritations to nervous system damage. And since gas is flammable, it only takes the slightest spark to ignite it.

3. Leaving Behind Personal Belongings

From garage door openers and house keys to identification cards and insurance policy, clear out your belongings, especially anything that links back to your identity. Take out the license plates as well—you can either turn them over to your state’s DMV or keep them. If you’ve recently installed upgrades like stereo systems or GPS navigation, you can remove them or account for their cost in the valuation.  

4. Forgetting to Cancel the Insurance

If your junk car has existing coverage, cancel it before selling—you wouldn’t want someone claiming damages in your name. Ask your insurer on the requirements for policy cancelation, as these may vary depending on state laws and company policies.  

When it’s time to get rid of your vehicle, keep all its parts intact before taking it to Stewart’s Used Auto Parts. Located in Barkhamsted, CT, this salvage yard also sells quality used auto parts, including transmissions, taillights, and radiators, and provides junk car removal. Call (860) 379-7541 today or inquire via their website.