Selling an old, damaged or unwanted vehicle to a wrecker can be a practical alternative to keeping a car that is no longer economical to maintain. However, a little preparation before collection can make the process easier and help you avoid unnecessary delays.
Whether the vehicle is running, damaged, or has been sitting unused, there are several things Wellington owners should check before arranging removal.

Before the vehicle leaves your property, check the entire car carefully. Look inside:
It is surprisingly easy to leave behind sunglasses, documents, tools, chargers or other personal items.
Have any relevant vehicle information available before contacting a wrecker. Depending on your circumstances, this may include registration information, ownership details, service records or other paperwork associated with the vehicle.
Having accurate information ready can make the assessment and collection process smoother.
If you have the vehicle’s keys, keep them together and ready for collection. This can include the main key, spare key, remote or other vehicle keys.
Even if the car does not run, the keys may still be useful for accessing or moving the vehicle.
When requesting an assessment, explain the vehicle’s condition accurately.
Let the wrecker know if the car:
Providing accurate details helps the recycler understand what is involved with collection and assessment.
Think about how the vehicle can be accessed by a removal truck or recovery vehicle.
Tell the service provider if the car is:
Clear information about the location can help avoid problems on collection day.
One of the main reasons people consider selling to wreckers is that repairs may no longer make financial sense.
If your vehicle has a major mechanical problem, accident damage or significant corrosion, consider the likely repair costs before spending more money.
In some situations, the vehicle may be better suited to dismantling and recycling rather than further repairs.
It may be tempting to remove parts from an unwanted vehicle before selling it. However, removing components can change the vehicle’s overall assessment and may make collection more complicated.
If you’re unsure whether a particular component should remain with the vehicle, ask the wrecker before removing it.
Do not attempt to drain fuel, oil, coolant or other automotive fluids yourself unless you have the appropriate equipment and knowledge to do so safely.
Professional vehicle recyclers have processes for handling fluids, batteries and other components during dismantling.
Learn More: How to Prepare Your Car Before Selling to Wreckers
A responsible vehicle recycler can assess the vehicle and determine which components and materials may be suitable for recovery.
Depending on its condition, parts such as engines, transmissions, wheels, electrical components and body panels may have potential for reuse. Metals including steel, aluminium and copper can also be recovered for recycling.
This means an end-of-life vehicle doesn’t necessarily have to become unnecessary waste.
If your old car has become difficult or expensive to maintain, selling it to a professional wrecker may provide a straightforward way to move it on.
Welly Scrap Yard provides vehicle removal and recycling services for Wellington and surrounding areas, including old, damaged and unwanted vehicles.
Thinking about selling your unwanted car?
Contact Welly Scrap Yard for a FREE vehicle assessment and ask about FREE vehicle removal.
Before arranging collection, remove your belongings, gather your vehicle information, locate the keys and provide accurate details about the car’s condition. A few simple preparations can make the entire process much easier.
Ready to move on from your unwanted vehicle? Get in touch with Welly Scrap Yard to discuss your vehicle removal and recycling options.