The most valuable parts to remove and sell separately are the catalytic converter, engine, transmission, GPS or infotainment system, and alloy wheels. These components have strong resale markets and can yield more money sold individually than included with a whole-car sale to a junkyard.
Parts worth removing if you have time and skills:
- Catalytic converter: $100 to $500+ (check local laws first)
- Engine (if running): $300 to $1,500
- Transmission: $200 to $800
- Infotainment or navigation system: $100 to $500
- Alloy wheels with good tires: $200 to $600 per set
- Headlights (newer vehicles): $50 to $300 per pair
- Seats (leather, heated): $100 to $400
- Doors and body panels (undamaged): $100 to $300 each
Parting out works best for popular vehicles where parts sell quickly. A wrecked Honda Civic or Toyota Camry has ready buyers for nearly every component. Rare or unpopular models may sit unsold for months.
Consider your time investment. Removing an engine takes hours and requires tools. Listing parts, answering questions, and shipping adds more effort. For many people, selling the whole car to a junk car buyer makes more sense. You get less per part but save significant time and hassle.
If you decide to part out, know what the remaining shell is worth so you can plan for disposing of it after valuable components are sold.
