what to do with used auto parts?

enotslim · Post by **enotslim** » 27 Dec 2019, 06:13

I'm looking for suggestions to recycle or dispose of used auto parts. My local AutoZone will take used oil and sometimes oil filters but, despite online claims of being into recycling, not other stuff - like broken coil springs, mufflers, etc. My search for local scrap yards turned up a pickup-only with 5,000 lb minimum, drop-offs that exclude auto parts and one drop-off sued for tax evasion.

(I realize this is not forum-specific but I didn't find a better forum.)

Thanks.

Post by **cn90** » 27 Dec 2019, 06:43

- Oil: yes...bring old oil to Valvoline, auto parts store. Oil Filter: no, just drain it and discrad it inside a small plastic bag.

- Metal parts: spring, rotors etc. I live near a metal recycling place. There is no weight limit. Although I can sell for 50 cents etc., I just give it to them for free. Better than landfill sites.

Post by **oragex** » 27 Dec 2019, 11:16

I would bring the oil filter in as well.. www.youtube.com/watch?v=NplprEGyFKw as for old car parts, it's unfortunate junkyards don't accept these.. in Canada we have some government recycling sites called 'eco' centers, where we can bring almost anything, from old tv's, soil, tires, etc. Maybe there's such location available nearby ?

Post by **Rattnalle** » 27 Dec 2019, 11:38

In Sweden every municipality has to provide recycling facilities for everything for their population. Very convenient. And free. If not for that I'm not sure it'd be possible to get rid of the stuff on any convenient way whatsoever.

Landfill isn't a thing here mostly, it's not the 60s anymore..

Post by **volvolugnut** » 27 Dec 2019, 12:57

Most Pick and Pull (junkyards, salvage yards, what ever they are called in your area) will at the end of their process send the left over to a metal recycling center. In these locations, a huge shredder with thousands of horsepower will grind up everything and separate into the various recyclable streams of ferrous, non ferrous, and other. Ferrous and non ferrous metals are reused for new metal parts. Sometimes the other is burned for power generation but mostly it will go to a land fill. This is the process as I understand in most of US.
If you are near a metal recycling center, you can give or sell your metal parts or entire car to them. Last time I sold an entire car, I got $72. If you are not near a metal recycling center you could likely give your old parts to the nearest Pick and Pull. I doubt they would pay you, but there will not be much value anyway. If you have significant brass, copper or aluminum in clean condition, you can make a few bucks at the metal recyclers. Copper wire with insulation, is not worth much. Because people steal these materials, you will likely have to present ID and be photographed.
volvolugnut

Post by **abscate** » 27 Dec 2019, 13:00

I can add them to my pile of recycled stuff next time I’m through Boston

I’m lucky to have a recycler 10 minutes form home who takes all metals for cash, Ben Weitsman

enotslim · Post by **enotslim** » 27 Dec 2019, 15:12

volvolugnut wrote: ↑27 Dec 2019, 12:57 ... Because people steal these materials, you will likely have to present ID and be photographed.
volvolugnut

Maybe they will disappear if I leave them at the curb? That would be great.

Post by **matthew1** » 27 Dec 2019, 15:41

enotslim wrote: ↑27 Dec 2019, 15:12
volvolugnut wrote: ↑27 Dec 2019, 12:57 ... Because people steal these materials, you will likely have to present ID and be photographed.
volvolugnut
Maybe they will disappear if I leave them at the curb? That would be great.

Only if you write $20 on a paper and tape it to the parts.

Post by **volvolugnut** » 27 Dec 2019, 17:09

What I meant was, If you show up to sell copper and aluminum scrap, you will need identification. Auto parts probably not. Unless they are some moderator's favorite aluminum wheels.
volvolugnut

Georgeandkira · Post by **Georgeandkira** » 30 Dec 2019, 05:56

No one mentioned that lots of garages have a pile of parts out back which is picked up routinely by some local guy.