Buying Junkyard Cars: A Guide to Finding Diamonds in the Rough

Old junkyard cars may not look like much at first glance. But with some vision and elbow grease, one person's worn-out clunker can become another's dream project car. Salvaging used parts or rebuilding a whole car from the junkyard can be far cheaper than buying retail. Here's what you need to know about buying junk yard cars for sale.

What to Expect When Shopping at a Junkyard

Also known as wrecking yards, scrapyards or salvage yards, auto junkyards are properties where damaged, old, or unusable vehicles are brought for recycling or resale. Here's a quick overview of the junkyard experience:

• Inventory is eclectic - makes/models from across decades, various damage conditions
• Cars are often missing major parts like engines or transmissions
• You'll get greasy and dirty wandering around the yard
• Expect to negotiate on prices for cars and parts
• Cash or check is standard payment, some may accept credit cards
• Junkyards have limited testing opportunities prior to purchase
• You typically need to remove purchased cars or parts yourself
• Policies vary on returns - inspect carefully before buying
  
  

It's smart to call ahead about specific inventory, pricing, and policies. Junkyards require signed liability waivers given the safety hazards of damaged vehicles stacked tightly together. Wear closed toe shoes and have gloves/glasses for protection.

Reasons to Buy a Junkyard Car

Low Prices

The top reason to buy a junkyard car is the low price compared to intact used cars. While junkyard quality varies greatly, you can sometimes get a good deal on a project car you can fix up. Just be selective in your purchases.

Used Parts Harvesting

Even if a car is too badly damaged to rebuild, you can buy it from a junkyard to harvest usable parts like the engine, transmission, electronics, and interior pieces. This is far cheaper than buying new or rebuilt auto parts.

Custom Fixer-Upper Project

Auto enthusiasts enjoy the challenge of customizing a junker into a cool custom car. With enough time, skill, and money, you can transform a junkyard find into a unique build that matches your taste.

Fix and Flip for Profit

Some junkyard car buyers repair and refresh their purchases then resell for a nice profit. With the right eye for valuable inventory, this can be a lucrative side business.

What to Look for When Choosing a Junkyard Car

The condition spectrum is wide when buying junkyard cars. Here are some things to look for:

Damage Assessment

thoroughly inspect the vehicle and note all visible damage. Assess if repairs would exceed your budget or abilities. Know when to walk away from a basket case.

Mechanical Components

Check for the engine, transmission, electronics, etc. Engine condition will greatly affect rebuild feasibility and costs.

Rust Levels

Heavily rusted frames and bodies can make restoration impractical. Look for solid structures with surface rust only.

Title Status

Get the VIN to lookup title status - avoid cars with salvaged/rebuilt titles unless you're harvesting parts.

Historical Value

Some old cars are desirable collector's items. Rare year/makes/models can make great rebuilding candidates if priced right.

Custom Potential

Look for junkers with potential for a unique custom build, especially if you have the skills to do the work yourself.

Questions to Ask the Junkyard About a Car

Prior to purchase, ask the junkyard staff:

• Why was this car junked? Any major accident or flood history?
• Does it run? When was it last driven?
• Are there any missing parts like the engine, transmission, etc?
• Would aftermarket or salvaged parts be needed to get it roadworthy?
• Can I do a more thorough inspection before buying? Test drive?
• Do you offer any short term warranty on inventory? Refund policy?
• How soon do I need to remove the vehicle after purchase? Any fees?
• Can you assist with lending tools, towing, loading purchased vehicles?
  
  

Negotiation Tips for Junkyard Cars

The initial asking price is often negotiable, especially for bulk part purchases or bundles of cars. Here are some tips:

• Point out any missing major components that lower the value
• Note necessary repairs or deterioration when countering a price
• Ask about discounts for buying multiple cars or large volumes of parts
• Offer to buy the whole car minus complex parts you can't reuse like electronics
• Propose a price based on estimated repair costs and desired profit margin
• Be prepared to walk away rather than overpay - inventory turnover is fast
  
  

Removing and Transporting Your Junkyard Finds

Purchased junkyard cars and parts must be removed promptly, often within a few days. Consider:

• Towing needs - flatbeds, car haulers, tow dollies, or driving intact cars
• Equipment needs - jack stands, tools for removing desired parts
• Help - extra hands make quicker work disassembling cars
• Transporting parts - have a truck, trailer, or van to carry items home
• Getting titles transferred to legally drive away any intact car purchases
• Junkyard policies - some assist with removal tools or towing services
  
  

Restoring a Junkyard Car

Major renovations require expertise, time, and money. Realistically assess your abilities before embarking on a full car restoration using junkyard parts.

Mechanical Repairs

• Engine, transmission, electronics repairs should be done by specialists
• Replace any damaged or worn mechanical components
• Flush all fluids, replace filters, gaskets, seals, hoses
  
  

Body Work

• Remove rust and repaint or replace body panels as needed
• Carefully hammer out dents - repair or replace damaged trim
• Address any frame damage - ensure structural integrity
  
  

Interior Refresh

• Replace damaged upholstery and carpeting
• Swap in new or refurbished gauges and controls
• Update accessories like audio, lighting, safety features
  
  

Finishing Touches

• New tires, windshield, mirrors, lights
• Customize with unique paint, body kits, accessories
• Regular maintenance to extend longevity
  
  

Conclusion

While it requires vision and effort, fixing up cheap junkyard finds, including repairable cars, can be very rewarding. With research, realistic planning, and some automotive know-how, you can turn a long-forgotten junker into a head-turning custom ride. Just be strategic in choosing inventory within your budget and abilities. Take time to thoroughly assess damage and value when negotiating with the yard. Map out repairs carefully before buying any hulks home. While labor-intensive, restoring a junkyard clunker yourself brings great satisfaction and savings. Embark on the journey of transforming repairable cars into personalized masterpieces, and witness the satisfaction of breathing new life into forgotten vehicles.