If you’re planning on scrapping a car in Perth, don’t rush straight to the yard without knowing what you’re selling. Many vehicle owners scrap cars as a single unit and unknowingly leave money on the table.
The reality is simple: some car parts are worth far more when scrapped separately. Components containing aluminium, copper, lead, and precious metals can significantly increase your payout when handled correctly.
At Universal Scrap Metal, we regularly see customers surprised by how much value is still sitting inside old, damaged, or non-running vehicles. Understanding which parts offer the best returns helps you get paid fairly while recycling responsibly.
Let’s break down the most valuable car parts to scrap in Perth:
🚗 1. Catalytic Converter – The Highest-Value Component
The catalytic converter is often the most valuable single part of a car when scrapped.
This is because it contains precious metals such as:
- Platinum
- Palladium
- Rhodium
These metals are used to reduce harmful emissions and are in strong global demand. Even older or damaged catalytic converters can be worth a significant amount depending on the vehicle type and current market rates.
💡 Tip: Always remove the catalytic converter before scrapping a car. Selling it separately almost always delivers better returns.
⚙️ 2. Engine Block – Heavyweight Means Higher Payout
Engine blocks are another high-value scrap item, largely due to their weight.
Most modern engines contain:
- A high percentage of aluminium
- Mixed ferrous and non-ferrous metals
Even if the engine no longer runs, it still holds solid scrap value. Many engines are scrapped together with gearboxes, but separating clean aluminium engines can sometimes attract better pricing.
🔩 3. Gearbox – Aluminium-Rich and Reliable Value
Gearboxes, both manual and automatic, offer strong scrap value thanks to their aluminium content.
Why gearboxes pay well:
- Aluminium-heavy construction
- Solid weight
- Consistent demand at scrap yards
Functionality doesn’t matter — a damaged or non-working gearbox is still valuable as scrap metal.
🔋 4. Car Battery – Fast, Reliable Cash
Car batteries are one of the easiest parts to scrap and are always in demand.
They contain:
- Lead, which is highly recyclable
- Reusable plastic casings
Because lead recycling is well established, scrap yards pay consistently for old batteries — even if they’re completely dead.
If you’re short on time, scrapping the battery alone can still put instant cash in your pocket.
🚫5. Car Radiators: Clearing Up a Common Myth
Many people believe car radiators contain copper, but most modern car radiators are aluminium-based.
- Car radiators → Aluminium
- Air-conditioning systems → Copper components
Aluminium radiators still have value, but copper components generally attract higher prices. Knowing the difference ensures realistic expectations and accurate payouts.
❄️ 6. Air Conditioning System – Copper Inside
Car air conditioning systems are often overlooked, but they can be surprisingly valuable.
Unlike standard car radiators, air-conditioning systems contain copper components, including:
- Copper tubing
- Copper-based condensers
- Compressors with mixed metals
Copper is one of the highest-paying non-ferrous metals, making aircon systems well worth removing before scrapping a vehicle.
⚠️ Note: Refrigerant gases must be safely removed in line with regulations before scrapping these components.
♻️ Why Scrapping Parts Separately Makes a Difference
Scrapping individual car parts rather than the entire vehicle can:
- Increase your overall payout
- Improve metal separation
- Speed up processing at the yard
- Reduce waste going to landfill
At Universal Scrap Metal, materials are weighed accurately and priced based on current market rates, ensuring transparency and fair value for every load.
📍 Scrapping a Car in Perth – Final Advice
Before scrapping your vehicle:
- Remove high-value parts first
- Separate non-ferrous metals where possible
- Ask about current scrap prices
- Choose a licensed recycler with instant payment
A small amount of preparation can turn an old car into a much better return.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to remove parts before scrapping my car?
No, but removing valuable parts like catalytic converters, batteries, and aircon systems can significantly increase your payout.
2. Are car radiators made of copper?
No. Most modern car radiators are aluminium-based. Copper is usually found in air-conditioning systems.
3. Can I scrap a non-running or damaged car?
Yes. Even written-off or non-running vehicles still contain valuable scrap metals.
4. Which car part offers the highest scrap value?
In most cases, the catalytic converter provides the highest return due to its precious metal content.
5. Where can I scrap car parts in Perth for fair prices?
Licensed recyclers like Universal Scrap Metal offer transparent weighing, competitive pricing, and instant payouts.
🔚 Final Thought
Scrapping a car in Perth doesn’t mean settling for the minimum. By identifying high-value parts and distinguishing between aluminium and copper components, you can maximise your return while supporting responsible recycling.
For fair pricing, fast unloading, and professional service, Universal Scrap Metal is a trusted choice for car and scrap metal recycling in Perth.