There are many different terms used in the car wrecking business, which can sometimes be confusing if you’re not sure what they all mean.

A common term that can create confusion is ‘car breaker’, as well as ‘auto salvage’, especially when compared to a scrapyard or truck wreckers. In this guide, we’ve outlined exactly what an auto wrecker is, how it works, and have answered some of the most common wrecker-related questions, refer to our previous Sell Car to Wreckers Guide.

What is a vehicle wrecker?

A car wrecking yard is another term for a scrapyard. It’s where old, broken or end-of-life cars and commercial vehicles are collected, resold, broken down or, in some cases, dismantled.

Depending on the rules of each auto wrecker, you can sometimes visit the yard yourself to check the cars and strip any salvage parts yourself using your own tools, or check out the vehicles they have at the yard to purchase for yourself.  Some yards will strip parts to sell before crushing the remains of the vehicle, some will sell parts online and others might sell the metal or scrap on for reuse.

Why should I use a vehicle breaker?

There are many reasons your car might be destined for the scrap yard or wreckers yard – perhaps it costs more to run than its resale value, or maybe it’s damaged, failed its WOF or is simply unwanted. By letting a company like us, here at South Wreckers, arrange to take your old vehicle to a scrapyard or breakers yard, means the parts are likely to be reused or recycled. This also has the bonus of great environmental advantages.

However, it’s not just those looking to get rid of a vehicle that can make the most of a car dismantler. If you’re after some specific items for your current car, such as a wing mirror or used tyres, then exploring the breakers yard could offer some affordable, second hand options.

Can you walk into a car wrecking yard?

Many car breakers in Christchurch do allow you to visit in person, to see which second hand parts and items they have.

In the past, you’d be able to head to any car breaker and root around for car parts or components yourself. With cars stacked one on top of the other, keen-eyed visitors would be free to ferret through the scrapped vehicles to remove and purchase their required items. Now, car wreckers are a little more health and safety conscious, so you may not always be able to go armed with your toolbox to fish out car parts independently.

How much will a Christchurch wrecker pay for unwanted vehicle in 2023?

The amount of money you can get from scrapping your car depends on several factors, from the condition of it, to its weight in scrap metal. See our ‘How Much is my Car Worth’ guide for more information about the different elements that could affect the value of your scrap vehicle.

Your first thought on learning your car is only good for the auto wrecker’s yard is likely to be the money you’re losing. Or more importantly, whether you’re likely to be able to to be if you’re able to claw anything back from the car’s scrap value. Sadly, there’s no guarantee that you will, as in these globalized times the value of your wreck has more to do with the prices of recycled steel, copper and aluminum than what it might have been worth in working order. When prices are at their lowest, Some companies might even attempt to charge you to take your car away, but at the very least you should demand a free collection.

If you’re wondering how on earth you’re meant to know what global commodity prices are doing when it comes to scrapping your car, there’s a simple way to find out. Don’t sell (or give your car away) to the first scrapper who answers the phone. Call three or four vehicle recyclers, and aim to pick the best offer that’s made – you’ll soon get a feel for anyone trying to take you for a ride.

Obviously, it’s illegal to sell or dispose of a vehicle which has an outstanding finance agreement. If you find yourself in a situation where your financed vehicle has been written off, it’s best to notify the relevant financial parties immediately.

What are the benefits of using auto salvage for parts?

• Cost Savings – Sourcing multiple used parts from one location could save you a considerable amount of money over buying the individual parts brand new
• Save Time – Dismantling all your parts from one vehicle during one breaker session could also save you time from researching, purchasing and waiting for the delivery of parts online
• Environmentally – Recycling used parts can also help the environment as it reduces the manufacturing demand of new parts.

So, the final question is: To wreck or to scrap…

Well, if you are using South Wreckers we will ensure the best Auto Wreckers offer you a price for your unwanted vehicle, taking all the stress and hassle away from wondering who to call next.