So, the day has finally come. That old car sitting in your Perth driveway—the one that’s been a faithful servant but is now more of a garden ornament—is ready for its final journey. Or perhaps you’ve been in an unfortunate accident, and your vehicle is now a write-off. You know the smart move is to call a car wrecker, turn it into cash, and clear up the space.
But for many people, this is where the uncertainty kicks in. It’s a process most of us don’t go through very often, and it can feel like stepping into the unknown. How does it work? Am I going to get a fair price? What do I need? What are the potential pitfalls?
Before you pick up the phone, take a breath. A little preparation can transform this process from a source of anxiety into a simple, straightforward, and profitable experience. Here at WA Auto Parts, with over 15 years of experience as Perth’s leading used auto parts buyer, seller, and wrecker, we believe in empowering our customers. A knowledgeable customer is a happy customer.
This guide will walk you through the 5 most important things you should know before you make that call. Getting these ducks in a row will ensure you can deal with any car wrecker with confidence.
1. Know Your Vehicle’s Exact Details
Imagine calling a builder and asking for a quote to build “a house.” They wouldn’t be able to give you an answer without knowing the size, materials, and location. Contacting a car wrecker is no different. Our quote is only as accurate as the information you give us. A vague description will only get you a vague, non-committal estimate that could easily change once we see the vehicle.
To get a firm, reliable quote from the get-go, spend five minutes gathering these key details:
- Make, Model, and Year: This is the absolute basic. “2007 Subaru Forester” is much better than “an old Subaru.”
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): This is the car’s unique 17-character fingerprint, usually found on the dashboard (visible through the windscreen) or on the driver’s side door jamb. The VIN allows us to know the exact specifications of your vehicle, from the engine type to the trim level.
- General Condition: This is where honesty is your best policy. We’ve seen it all, so don’t worry about judging your car. Let us know: Is it still running? Has it been in an accident, and if so, where is the main damage? Are there any major parts missing (like the engine, radiator, or wheels)? The more accurate your description, the more solid our quote will be.
- Kilometres on the Odometer: If the battery is still working and you can see the dash, a kilometre reading is always helpful.
Having this information ready when you call us at (08) 9358 1392 shows that you’re prepared and allows our team to give you the best possible price based on real data. It’s the foundation for a transparent transaction with no surprises.
2. Have Your Proof of Ownership Documents in Hand
This is a big one, and it’s non-negotiable for any legitimate operator. Reputable car wreckers are legally obligated to verify that you are the rightful owner of the vehicle. This law is in place to protect everyone by preventing the trade and disposal of stolen cars. Trying to sell a car without the right paperwork is a major red flag for us and will bring the process to a screeching halt.
Before you even think about selling your car for scrap, locate the following:
- Proof of Ownership: In Western Australia, this is your vehicle’s Certificate of Registration. This document is the key to proving the car legally belongs to you. Crucially, it doesn’t matter if the registration has expired. The document itself is what proves ownership.
- Personal Photo ID: You will need a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as your Driver’s License. The name on your ID must match the name on the Certificate of Registration.
Getting these two documents together before you make contact will make your life incredibly easy. It signals that you’re ready for a professional and legal transaction and will save you from the frustrating scenario of having everything organised, only to be held up by a missing piece of paper.
3. Understand How Your Car Is Actually Valued
The price a wrecker offers you isn’t just a number plucked from thin air. It’s a calculated figure based on several key factors. Understanding these factors helps you set realistic expectations and appreciate where the value truly lies—it’s often not what you think.
As a company that specialises in parts for Japanese, European, Australian, Korean, and American vehicles, we conduct a detailed assessment to determine a vehicle’s worth. Here’s what goes into your quote:
- Scrap Metal Weight: At its core, your car is a large collection of metal. A significant portion of its value comes from its weight in steel, aluminium, and other metals. This is why heavier vehicles like SUVs, 4WDs, and vans often have a higher starting value than a small hatchback. The price of these metals fluctuates on the global commodities market, which can affect the quote day-to-day.
- Salvageable Parts: This is where our 15 years of experience comes in. We don’t just see a wreck; we see a warehouse of potential parts. Is the engine in good condition? Can the transmission be reused? Are the alternator and starter motor functional? If your car is a popular model in Perth, its working parts are in high demand, which increases its value to us.
- High-Value Components: Some parts are surprisingly valuable on their own. The most notable is the catalytic converter, which contains precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These are essential for emission control and are highly valuable to recyclers.
- Overall Condition and Completeness: A complete car, even if it’s not running, is worth more than a stripped shell. If key components are missing, this will naturally lower the value.
When you get a quote from WA Auto Parts, you’re getting a price that thoughtfully considers all these elements to give you the most competitive offer possible.
4. Clarify the Process and Ask About Hidden Fees
Your relationship with a car wrecker shouldn’t be adversarial. A professional company will be transparent and happy to walk you through their process. You have the right to ask questions, and their answers will tell you a lot about who you’re dealing with.
Before you agree to any offer, make sure you ask these critical questions:
- “Is your car removal or towing service completely free?” For any reputable Perth wrecker, the answer should be an unequivocal YES. Free towing is a standard part of the service. If a company wants to charge you for pickup, hang up and call someone else.
- “Is the quote you’ve given me the final price?” Ask them to confirm that there are no hidden charges or deductions that they will try to apply on the day of pickup. A firm quote should be just that—firm.
- “How and when will I be paid?” You should never have to wait for your money. The industry standard is payment on the spot, either as cash in hand or via an instant bank transfer (like Osko/PayID) before the tow truck leaves with your car.
- “Do you handle the necessary disposal paperwork?” A professional service will handle the documentation required by the Department of Transport, making the process hassle-free for you.
At WA Auto Parts, our process is simple: We give you a quote. If you accept, we schedule a free pickup at a time that suits you. We show up, confirm the details, pay you on the spot, and tow the car away. No fees, no fuss.
5. Do a 2-Minute Reputation Check
In the age of the internet, there’s no excuse for dealing with a shady operator. A few minutes of simple research can give you peace of mind and save you from potential scams, last-minute price changes, or unprofessional service.
- Check Online Reviews: Do a quick Google search for the company’s name and read their reviews. What are other Perth customers saying? Look for consistent themes. Are they praised for being punctual, professional, and honouring their quotes? Or are there complaints about low-balling and poor communication?
- Look for a License: A legitimate business will be licensed and insured. In WA, this means they should have a Motor Vehicle Repairer’s Business Licence. This shows they are accountable and meet industry standards.
- Professionalism: Does the company have a proper website with a physical address listed? When you call, do they answer professionally and patiently address your questions? These small things are often indicative of their overall business practices.
Conclusion: Make the Call with Confidence
And there you have it. Know your car, have your documents, understand its value, clarify the process, and check the company’s reputation.
By running through this simple checklist, you’ve transformed yourself from an uncertain seller into an informed and prepared one. You are now in full control of the transaction. You have the knowledge to spot a good operator, ask the right questions, and ensure you get the best possible outcome.
The process of selling your old car shouldn’t be a source of stress. It’s the final, positive step in your vehicle’s life cycle. Now that you’re prepared, you’re ready to make that call with complete confidence.
If you’re ready to turn your unwanted vehicle into instant cash, put our 15 years of experience to the test. Call the trusted, professional team at WA Auto Parts today on (08) 9358 1392 for a free, no-obligation, and transparent quote