Fred’s Auto Removal

When a junk car is towed away, many assume it disappears into oblivion. However, the reality is much more complex.

Whether abandoned, totaled in an accident, or sold for scrap, a junk car embarks on a journey that involves multiple steps, including dismantling, recycling, and sometimes even resale.

Here’s a look at what happens to a junk car after it’s towed away.

Step 1: Transport to a Junkyard or Salvage Yard

Once a towing company picks up a junk car, it is typically transported to a junkyard or a salvage yard. The destination depends on the car’s condition and the tow company. Some vehicles are taken to scrap yards for immediate dismantling, while others go to salvage yards where valuable parts may be removed and resold.

Step 2: Evaluation and Inspection

Upon arrival, the junkyard assesses the car’s condition. If the vehicle is in relatively good shape with salvageable components, it may be placed in a yard where customers can remove parts for reuse. However, if the car is completely wrecked or has no valuable components, it will be prepared for scrapping.

Step 3: Fluid and Hazardous Material Removal

Before a car can be crushed or dismantled, all fluids and hazardous materials must be drained and disposed of safely. This includes:

  • Gasoline and Oil: Any leftover fuel and oil are siphoned and properly recycled.
  • Transmission and Brake Fluids: These are removed to prevent environmental contamination.
  • Coolant and Freon: If the car has air conditioning, the refrigerant is extracted in compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Battery and Mercury Switches: Car batteries contain lead and acid, while older models may have mercury switches that require special disposal.

Step 4: Dismantling and Parts Salvaging

Once fluids are removed, the vehicle is stripped of usable parts. Salvage yards often sell functional components such as:

  • Engines and Transmissions: They can be refurbished and resold if they are still in working condition.
  • Alternators, Starters, and Radiators: These parts are in high demand for car repairs.
  • Doors, Mirrors, and Seats: Body parts and interior components can be repurposed for other vehicles.

Some junkyards even list salvaged parts online, allowing customers to purchase them at a fraction of the cost of new parts.

Step 5: Crushing and Shredding

After removing salvageable parts, the remaining car frame is sent to a crusher. A massive hydraulic press flattens the vehicle into a compact metal cube. These crushed cars are then shredded into smaller pieces and sent to metal recycling plants.

Step 6: Recycling and Repurposing

The shredded metal is melted and reused to manufacture new cars, appliances, and other products. On average, about 80% of a car’s material is recyclable, making auto recycling one of the most efficient industries in waste reduction.

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In the end, a junk car doesn’t just vanish—it is repurposed into new products, reducing the need for mining raw materials and benefiting the environment. Whether through salvaged parts or recycled metal, junk cars continue to serve a purpose long after they’ve been towed away.

To get a quote for your junk car, contact us today by calling (503) 810-2061 or click here to connect with us online. 

 

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