Whether your car has been totaled in an accident or it's simply no longer road-ready, you may be considering selling it for parts. This process, also known as junking your car, typically involves selling the vehicle to a junkyard. The junkyard then sells the parts from your car to other consumers. Junking your car can be a great way to get money from an unusable vehicle, but there are a few things you should know before contacting a junkyard. Here are some things to consider before you junk your car. 

Look For Free Towing

If your car doesn't run anymore, it will need to be towed. Ask the junkyard representative if your car can be towed for you and if there will be a fee for towing. Free towing is offered by some junk yards as an added incentive for you to sell, making it easier for you to part way with your old vehicle. Be sure the company can schedule the tow truck to arrive at your convenience, and let the driver know if there are any special considerations that might need to be made for your vehicle. For example, if your car no longer has tires, it may need to be transported on flat bed tow truck.

Clean Out Your Car

Make sure there are no personal items left in the vehicle before you junk it, as it may be difficult to retrieve these items after selling your car. Check your trunk, glove box and under your seats to make sure you haven't left anything behind. You may also want to consider removing any parts you may need for your new vehicle, such as newly added windshield wipers, hub caps, or tires.

Have Your Paperwork

You'll need to have the proper paperwork in order to sell your car, even if it's only being used for parts. The junkyard will likely ask for the title to the car so the sale can be registered properly, and you may want to turn over any service records for the vehicle. For example, if the engine has been recently serviced or repaired, this information might be helpful for the junkyard when it goes to sell the engine to a new customer.

Get Immediate Payment

Some junkyard companies offer cash or a check on the spot when picking up your vehicle. When you arrange to have your car towed from your location, be sure to ask when you can expect payment. It's a good idea to get the payment before surrendering the title so you can protect your assets.

Consider looking at several junkyards before deciding on the right one for you. With the right company, you may even find that you'll want to go back any time you need a part for your current vehicles. For more information, talk to a professional like City Auto Wreckers.